AN EXCERPT FROM OUR FIRST WOMEN’S FOUNDATIONS GRADUATE
“Hello everyone. My name is Selena, and I am honored to be here with you all today to celebrate Thanksgiving here at Guiding Light. I am grateful for my sobriety and a new way of thinking. The woman that I am today is not the same woman I was four months ago.
Prior to coming to Guiding Light, I was hopeless, scared and alone. I could not see any good myself or the world around me. I beat myself up about the past mistakes and was anxious and terrified of the future. I was tired and beaten down. I would drown my emotions with alcohol to numb the pain. I had given up on myself. With the help of a few loved ones, I was able to make it to the hospital for a five-day detox to rid my body of the poison of alcohol. I went to rehab for two weeks, but I knew I needed more. The physical battle was just the beginning. I was sober, but my soul was sick.
I knew of Guiding Light men’s program and witnessed it saved the life of somebody very special to me. I called and was relieved to hear that the woman’s program was up and running and they had a spot for me. This program has taught me how to live a new way in this world, how to love myself and embrace God’s gifts. I’ve learned how to show up for myself and others and take responsibility for my thoughts, my words and my actions. I’ve learned how to wake up every morning and be grateful to be alive, to breathe, to think, to enjoy, to love and to make each day count. Practicing gratitude has played a major role in my recovery. It sets the tone for each day and brings my attention to all the gifts in my life.
I have a strong spiritual connection to God today, and for that I am very grateful. I know in every situation I am responsible for the effort, and God is responsible for the outcome. I am grateful for so many things today, my spirituality, sobriety and my overall sense of peace and serenity. This is such an amazing gift to be here with you all. Thank you.”
