Struggling with addiction is a lifelong process, one that Andrew understands better than most. Even after seeking help and getting clean, the danger of a relapse can loom large. Fortunately, Andrew has also learned that even in your darkest moments, there is a chance for reconciliation and that it is never too late for a second chance.
Before Rehab
Before finding His Way, Andrew was what they called a habitual offender. He had spent years taking opiates, pills, and heroin, and his life had spiraled out of control.
“Active addiction taught me not to trust anyone or believe anything to be truth,” said Andrew, reflecting on his struggles. “…I am still building back together, six years later.”
After finding himself facing drug charges multiple times, Andrew was recommended to His Way, and he began his first steps on the road to recovery. After six months, he graduated from the program and began the second stage. Unfortunately, after nine months of sobriety, Andrew relapsed and started taking pills again, leaving the program.
A Second Chance at Recovery
Having made it so far, only to fall back into bad habits, Andrew’s situation only worsened. On two separate occasions, he found himself in the emergency room after a life-threatening overdose. Only after running out of the ER to return to the house where he had been staying did Andrew finally admit to himself that he had a serious problem.
“I was scared of myself,” he said. “It was my second chance at His Way when I let go.”
When Andrew was welcomed back into His Way, he made the best of the opportunity. During his second time through the program, he began taking suggestions to heart, taking responsibility for his actions, and coming to a better understanding of himself.
“I fully bought in the second time,” he said, “because I knew it worked.”
Finding the Way
“Addiction was a necessary evil for me to spiritually awaken,” said Andrew, whose second time through the His Way program allowed him a new outlook on his life. “I don’t know if I’d be this close to God today without my past.”
Andrew’s journey through His Way was difficult and fraught with frustration and pain, but through it all, he gained the spiritual strength to persevere and overcome his demons. He recalled, “In my early recovery, I remember praying, ‘Just for today LORD, just this hour, minute. Please help me not use drugs.’ He still answers that prayer daily and I’m excited to see His future responses.”
“Although it was hell getting through, there is an incredible amount of joy and resilience in God’s reconciliation,” Andrew said, thankful for his new perspective. “In retrospect, recovery has shown me myself…good and bad, alongside what I can now call God’s truths.”
Life Post-Rehab
Since his time at His Way, Andrew has continued to grow and progress. Having celebrated five years free from drug use, he has maintained steady employment since his second graduation and has even started a small business of his own. This past year also saw his third anniversary with his beautiful girlfriend and soon-to-be wife.
“I am trying to grow better each day,” said Andrew, “mentally, physically, and spiritually.”
Through it all, His Way has remained a guiding light on his journey. Andrew remains grateful, saying, “I will forever be grateful to His Way for many things, but above all for second chances.”
For Anyone Looking for a Fresh Start
While Andrew has been free from his addiction for years, his story is far from over. He looks ahead to a bright future, setting new goals for himself and meeting them “with a big heart and open eyes.”
“Imagine waking up from now on and each day is better than yesterday,” he said. “It can happen for you; it’s still happening for me every single day.”
For those who are still considering recovery, Andrew had some first-hand advice: “Train yourself to be comfortable being uncomfortable,” he began. “Stay open to new ideas and suggestions. Find a hobby or second skill and diversify…Never give up and always press forward. It’s ok to be scared. Ask for help. Despite your past, there are good, honest people waiting to help you.”
Thinking back on how he was able to turn his life around for the better, Andrew concluded “Never forget where you came from and where you could be. All things are possible.”
No matter your past or your present, you can always find a fresh start!