I saw Don today at our weekly Friday chapel service. Every Friday we recognize the men who have moved up a level in our Program or have achieved some other accomplishment during the week. Don graduated two years ago, began working at Johns Hopkins Hospital and moved out on his own. He still comes back here every Friday for our chapel service - to remember where he has come from and to offer his support to the men who are following behind him.
Today Don made it a point to look me in the eye and say that it was birthday – 65 years young. Then he said that it was because of Helping Up Mission that he made it to 65, that he is working and that he is enjoying life like he does today.
I love Friday chapels – as we celebrate each victory a man has along his recovery journey. I love it when we recognize the graduates each week (we had 3 more today!). I love it when our alumni, that are making it every day out there in Baltimore City, keep coming back here to support the next guy.
If you have a friend or loved one who is struggling with addiction (or you, yourself), do not give up! This is something God specializes in – men and women all over Baltimore are finding answers and experiencing recovery. I know it works – I get to see it every day here at Helping Up Mission.
Sincerely,
Pastor Gary Byers
Spiritual Life Director