I Learned to Forgive Myself

I grew up in southern Louisiana, a small little country town outside of New Orleans. Right along the Mississippi, it was a great place to grow up. The type of town where everyone knew everyone by name. Hunting, fishing, southern comfort food, and church on Sundays was a regular week growing up.

It wasn’t until later in life I struggled with addiction. It took years for me to find a place that worked for me. I tried treatment center after treatment center, but nothing ever seemed to stick. I might do good for a little while, but before long, I would find myself back in the same situation again. All that changed when I came to Narconon.

While in the withdrawal portion of the program, I had several wins. My first win was realizing that I could be comfortable with myself again without using the substance. Secondly, I realized that I could confront life again without being fearful.

The sauna was an excellent experience for me. Throughout the process, I could see clarity coming back to me. The fog gradually lifted, which was a relief. The greatest reward for me was when my sister told me that she could tell the difference in my voice from our conversations.

Objectives was a total eye-opener for me. I realized a lot of the things missing in my life when I was using drugs. I began seeing the beauty in things that I once took for granted. Such as the sound of birds chirping, I became more aware of my surroundings and found it quite pleasant to live in the present. I also realized that I could not only follow directions but take directions without hesitation.

“I realize my family and friends love me, no matter what. I have learned to forgive others, and critically I have learned to forgive myself.”

During the life skills portion of the program, I had many wins. I finally discovered that self-doubt had affected me my entire life. By addressing my past mishaps, I felt a sense of relief I didn’t think was possible. I realize my family and friends love me, no matter what. I have learned to forgive others, and critically I have learned to forgive myself. I also now know that applying my moral code and ethics to my life going forward. I won’t jeopardize my survival again by going back to the way I used to live. I also now know how to keep myself out of danger. I have learned the tools I needed to be the kind of person I desire to be.

J.M.—Narconon Graduate