As I began my class with the new guys in our 12-month residential Spiritual Recovery Program yesterday, Ron asked if he could say something to the group. He’s 56 years old, quiet, intense and emotional. Of course I said yes, but didn’t know what to expect!
Ron said he was dropped off by a friend at Helping Up Mission last week. They both agreed this was his last stop!
He noted that his addiction to alcohol had really taken a toll on his life, career and relationships. Ron couldn’t imagine rock-bottom being any lower or deeper than this.
He acknowledged the urgency of him getting it right this time. He also noted that there was absolutely nothing of any value out there for him.
But Ron was also quick to say that all he wants to do is walk out the door and run away. Probably the only thing that has kept him from doing so is that there is absolutely no place for him to go!
Then Ron asked the other new guys to pray for him, help him stay and help him to get it right this time. Things the other guys shared with him in response were thoughtful, caring and meaningful. Ron was touched and so was I.
I don’t know what Ron will do – I don’t even know if he will in class this morning. I don’t know what any of the other guys will do, either.
But I do know this was an honest moment between a bunch of guys of different age, race, religion and socio-economic status. I also know God was in our midst!
One Day at a Time,
Pastor Gary Byers
Deputy Director