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My Reminder
Published June 5, 2008
I had the opportunity to assist a 50 year old man—we’ll call him John—seeking recovery. John was jobless, homeless, and hopeless. He was not seeking medical attention because he did not have medical assistance and was not saturated to cause withdrawal side effects. However, he was in need of recovery assistance.
We contacted several Recovery Houses to seek a bed and get John re-routed into recovery. The majority of Recovery Houses filled due to the cold weather. By the grace of God we were able to find a bed. I took John to the house at lunchtime. When we pulled up we found a newly remodeled Levittowner that was very inviting. Larry, the day monitor, greeted us and welcomed John. Another resident who was home took John’s bag and brought it to the room. Larry guided us to the recently updated kitchen to show us what was for dinner. The smell of the house made your mouth water. Larry proudly showed us that he was cooking a pork roast in a Dutch oven with many veggies and potatoes. “Low and slow with a lot of love,” Larry said. John and I marveled at the kitchen gadgets and how well the counter top was organized. Larry said, “I need it that way.” Being home during the day, Larry did the cooking and enjoyed it. I never thought about why he needed it that way.
I said goodbye to John and welcomed him back to the journey. I thanked the guys at the house and told John he was in good hands. Larry approached me and put his hand on my shoulder and felt my upper arm. He said, “Steve said you were big.” Steve is the general manager of four recovery houses operated by Life’s Journey in Levittown. “Yep, you’re big,” Larry said. I wasn’t sure what to think until Larry followed my arm down and grasped my hand to shake it. He said, “Mike, I have nine months recovery and have never felt better in my life. My life has been a struggle. I am permanently disabled and blind but I wouldn’t trade it for the world. I like what I help out with here.” I was so choked up I couldn’t speak.
I went to my car and stayed seated to allow my emotions to run their course. The message was clear to me. That day I was reminded of the people needing help, like John and Larry, who are grateful to be in recovery and who have had more struggles than I could imagine, but are still able to share their love of recovery. I will remember this for a long time.
The story above was submitted by Mike McDonnell, Services Coordinator, Southern Bucks Recovery Community Center.
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