Transformation Tuesday Blog Series
My friend, Kathleen, has shared with me her incredible story of transformation. She was stuck in self destructive opiate addiction for 10 years; and now by the grace of God she is approaching her 5 year sobriety milestone being drug-free. As part of her treatment, she was in an outpatient program called Gateway which was key in her recovery process. I wanted to ask her some questions to help encourage others that may be struggling with any form of addiction:
1) What would you say to anyone who is currently struggling with addiction and wants to break free?
"If you're still in the darkness of addiction, you're not alone. I truly thought God had abandoned me but when I look back I can truly see He was with me every single minute of my using. There is help out there. But first you have want to be sober. If not for yourself, then do it for your family or even your friends. Then hit your knees and talk with God. God moves in ways that will blow your mind, because He loves you that much."
2) In addiction to the treatment program you were in, what role did your faith play in your recovery process?
"My faith was small at best but it was all I had when I hit rock bottom. When going through any treatment whether it's in or outpatient, they have you say the Serenity prayer. I felt unworthy to talk to God so saying that prayer was a "fake it until you make it" motion for me those first few days. Then the fog of the drugs started to lift a little and I had gotten some clarity. I started hearing what was being said inside NA meetings. Gateway had us attend group sessions 3 times a week. I realized none of this was keeping me sober long term without God first in my life. I surrendered and started reading my Bible. My life improved with each new sunrise."
3) It is clear that you have had a radical transformation and I hope it brings others encouragement to know that change is absolutely possible. Please feel free to share any other words of encouragement to people that may still be struggling right now.
"I would say to the still suffering addict, please don't give up on yourself. You are loved whether you feel it or not. God truly is right there with you no matter what you've done. God's grace is free, there's no way to earn it. All you have to do is accept it."
-Mary Kathleen Folks
Thank you so much for sharing your incredible story, Mary!!!
**Please reach out for help if you or someone you know is struggling with addiction. There are some resources on the HOPE page of this website.
*If you have a story of Transformation you'd like to share as part of this new blog series, please reach out to let me know! Either send a message via the Connect tab of this website or message me on Instagram @amylynnlisek
It was an absolute honor to answer questions about addiction for Amy. This experience has made me realize we are truly meant to reach out to one another. We're not meant to be alone ladies. We are stronger together. Stronger for our families, for each other and definitely for God. Thank you sweet Amy!!!