I rarely watch much news, but one day I stopped by the house for lunch and turned on the TV for a moment to hear the press conference regarding the successful rescue of the final U.S. airman from the shot-down…
One of the biggest misconceptions about recovery is that it ends when the drugs or alcohol are gone. It doesn’t. In many ways, that’s where it begins. When I first got sober, I thought that if I could just stop…
Living in addiction is like having your life frozen in time. There is no growth, no maturity, no progress. There is an “arrested development” that creates the feeling of a stalled life. Entering into His Way is the beginning of a thawing…
Our counseling staff has a new member. Mikka—a sweet, lovable rescue dog—joined the His Way family at the end of March, and she’s already settling in wonderfully. She was eager to meet everyone from the start, quickly stepping into her…
When a man graduates from His Way, he receives a “Full Armor of God” coin. This coin is a reminder of the weapons that God supplies him to fight the ongoing spiritual battle for recovery. As a graduate, he is leaving…
Since the very beginning at His Way in 2007, we have given all residential graduates a weighted commemorative coin as an encouragement to remain true to the Christ-centered path of recovery. The coin was first suggested by my wife, Selwyn, when…
One of the tragic results of addiction is a life filled with guilt and shame. As men at His Way begin to learn of the love, grace, and mercy of God, they typically ask a question, “I know God has…
Recovery is challenging, and many great teachers and writers have created resources to help you overcome and endure the challenges in your recovery journey. Reading and listening to encouraging voices can make a powerful difference, and the right resources can…
His Way is a rigorous academic as well as self-reflective journey. This is particularly challenging to men who enter through addiction who have not used their reading, writing, and reasoning skills for many years. Because addiction is recognized as a brain…
Since the very beginning of His Way, no matter what things happened, Friday night would be my wife and I’s sacred date night. It starts promptly at 5 p.m. and involves a nice dinner at home with a movie on…
Born and raised in Huntsville, Alabama, Joey Betterton has deep roots in the community. He attended Whitesburg Elementary and Middle School before going on to Grissom High School. His story—like so many who have come through His Way—is one of…
We all receive criticism; some is deserved and some is not. But remember as you face unjust criticism, you are not alone. Jesus received criticism too! As Luke 15 begins, Jesus is again under criticism. “Now the tax collectors and…
Jesus’ first two parables in Luke 15 challenge Jesus’ critics to abandon their objections and join heaven in reaching the lost one. As He reiterates, “Rejoice with me!” However, it is one thing to challenge critics with cute stories about…
Have you ever been surprised by a response? Or shocked that someone is not nearly as upset as you anticipated them to be? The prodigal son in Jesus’ Luke 15 parable is greeted by his father as he humiliatingly returns…
Active addiction has robbed us of many things. It has led us deep into sin. It has warped our personalities and tested our faith, if we had any. Now, we must rebuild. To Everything There is a Season “To every thing…
Written by Jeremy Mitchell, Executive Director, His Way Recovery Center of Georgia I didn’t wake up one day and decide, “I want to serve.” Truth is, I believe the call to serve was always inside me—woven into the fabric of…
Addiction has many consequences from broken relationships to legal charges, to health problems. One of the consequences most profoundly felt is a loss of career opportunities. Substance abuse causes a total derailment of a solid career path. It also leads…
U.S. Navy Seal Admiral William H. McRaven created a phenomenon with his “Make Your Bed” commencement speech at the University of Texas, on May 17, 2014. In his commencement address to the Class of 2014, Adm. McRaven, a graduate of…
Written by Jeremy Mitchell, Executive Director, His Way Recovery Center of Georgia When I look back over my recovery journey, one thing that stands out loudly is fellowship. The Bible talks often about the power of community, and I believe…
When I was newly single at the age of 40, my dad was visiting from Michigan. On that trip, he went to Home Depot and bought me a tool bag and an assortment of basic tools to keep in the…
Steve Shelton grew up in Huntsville, Alabama, never knowing his father. He grew up as an only child, raised by a single mother, supported by her parents, Steve’s only grandparents. This is a common theme for many men trapped in…
In substance abuse circles, there is the much-debated topic of genetic versus environmental causes of addiction. This debate rages because of the obvious reality that the curse of addiction is somehow passed down generationally. When we interview His Way applicants…
Sometimes, people can be difficult, especially those struggling with substance abuse. Addiction can lead to selfishness, disorganization, and recklessness. As a pastor, I recognize that calling people “difficult” isn’t exactly the right thing to do. However, it’s no secret that…
Written by Jeremy Mitchell, Director of His Way Atlanta One of the first things I want to share with anyone beginning their recovery journey is this: people are here to help you. It might not feel like it right away.…
The final prophecy in the Old Testament envisions the entire purpose and accomplishment of the New Testament. “Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the great and awesome day of the LORD comes. And He will turn the…
In Shakespeare’s “King Henry V,” this scene unfolds at the Battle of Algincourt on October 25, 1415. This day is known as St. Crispin’s Day, a feast day honoring the Crispin twins who were martyred for their faith in 286…
While men have historically had higher rates of substance use disorders (SUDs), the gap between men and women in SUD prevalence is narrowing. Women account for approximately one-third of adults reporting an SUD in the U.S. Recent studies suggest that…
Our key recovery verse at His Way is: “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and…
In March of 1994, the cover of Life magazine featured a girl praying and the headline “The Power of Prayer.” Other articles followed; Newsweek featured “The Mystery of Prayer” in March of 1997. These articles cited medical studies that underscored…
Recovery is a journey best not taken alone. While family, friends, and professional counselors are important sources of support, one of the most impactful sources of encouragement comes from churches and the people in the church. Through financial contributions and…
The holiday season is often described as the most wonderful time of the year, filled with joy, family gatherings, and celebration. But for people in recovery, the holidays can also be a season of challenges, such as loneliness, missing loved…
Have you ever wondered about the colored wristbands worn by His Way residents and staff? These bands serve as a visual representation of each resident’s progress through the His Way program, designed to track and celebrate their spiritual and personal…
Recovery is more than just overcoming addiction; it’s a journey toward healing, acceptance, and the freedom that comes through forgiveness. At His Way, we recognize that dealing with shame and guilt can be a challenge for those in recovery. Some…
Kevin and Cindy Lindquist volunteer at His Way Atlanta, hosting Christmas parties, providing meals to residents, and participating in recovery meetings. The couple, which attends Gwinnett Church of Christ, is also actively engaged with Navigate Recovery, an addiction recovery support…
There are many warning signs that mental illness may be a concern. The more obvious signs include experiencing hallucinations or delusions. Hallucinations occur when you see, hear, taste, touch, or smell things that aren’t there. Delusions involve believing things that…
Many His Way residents arrive with current or past formal psychiatric diagnoses. We must ask two important questions: First, since the wide range of possible behaviors displayed by individuals with a substance use problem can closely mimic those of nearly every…
“And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ.” Ephesians 4: 11-12 Several years ago, His Way Atlanta Director Jeremy Mitchell made a life-changing decision to…
Celebrating the Art of Recovery His Way is proud to observe National Recovery Month, acknowledging and celebrating those making the journey to recovery, and those who help them along their way. This month, we’re sharing some encouraging truths, to remind…
Addiction was the most horrifying thing in the world for Seth Bond. From the age of 16, he found himself in a relentless cycle, constantly chasing drugs and alcohol. Even when he had what he craved, the fear of running…
Barry and Vicki Johnsons’ only child, Jeffrey, struggled with alcohol addiction, but in 2016 Jeffrey found hope and healing through His Way’s addiction recovery program. Vicki recalled how the program greatly benefited Jeffrey, offering him a chance at a new…
Addiction is a formidable opponent and not one to be faced alone. Family support can provide love, understanding, and stability during a time when everything feels uncertain. Yet oftentimes family members don’t know what role to play in their loved…
Blake walked into the office recently holding an envelope and said, “I want to read you something.” We could tell by the smile on his face it was going to be something good. He unfolded a piece of paper and…
Are you considering getting involved with His Way Recovery Center but unsure where to start? Here’s some encouragement from some of those who have been touched by the mission and work of this life-changing organization. Make an Eternal Difference Brenda…
From a drunk’s perspective, the glass is always half empty, which provides plenty of excuses to drink, if any are needed. Maybe, rationalization is a better word for what I did, or rather, for what the committee in my head…
If you have ever been in the backroom of one of our thrift stores, you were surely amazed at the sheer amount of “stuff” that is donated every single day. Sometimes it makes us wonder, “Where is all this stuff…
There are a lot of new things going on in my life. My kids are growing up, and it has been a joy watching them grow up over the years. I am about to take my oldest son to Auburn…
Who wants to surrender, to give up? It is practically un-American. We like winners and wish to be winners. Soldiers will fight to the last bullet and even the last man before surrendering, and even then will sometimes refuse to surrender. It is commonly…
At His Way, our mission to offer Christ-centered recovery to men throughout North Alabama relies heavily on the generous support of individuals, churches, and organizations. Donations to non-profit organizations like His Way can be slow this time of the year.…
His Way Atlanta is leading the way in helping individuals overcome addiction by partnering with the Forsyth County Drug Court Program in Cumming, Ga. Through the unique structure of the His Way Atlanta two-year program, participants can complete their court-mandated…
Recovery can be a challenging and isolating process, but the journey becomes more navigable with a supportive guide by your side. This is where the profound value of mentorship in recovery comes into play. Guidance Mentors play a pivotal role…
Jim Phillips, a graduate of the His Way program, and his wife Tracy are making a significant impact by supporting parents recovering from addiction in their journey toward family reunification. The Phillips have taken on the role of foster parents,…
As 2023 comes to a close, we want to take the time to celebrate what God has accomplished through His Way this year. Celebrating God’s Faithfulness We have so many reasons to celebrate the goodness of the Lord, starting with…
This is Tommy Thompson, he is 30 years old and is originally from Downey California. He spent most of his teenage and young adult years traveling around the country trying to find a home and happiness. When he could not…
As we highlight the importance of education in changing the trajectory of our lives, we want to introduce Laura Grace Ashburn who has a passion for education and helping others. How Laura Grace Found Her Way to His Way Laura…
A Key to Successful Life Transformation Written by Brooks Sieglock, Manager of The Saving Way thrift store located in Madison Alabama, and graduate of the His Way program. Drug addiction is a complex and devastating issue that affects countless individuals,…
Education has the power to transform lives, break cycles, and open doors to new opportunities. Helping individuals rebuild their lives after addiction is complicated and education plays a pivotal role in enabling residents to successfully transition into society. One of…
When Americans are surveyed about their greatest fear, public speaking is always very close to the top of the list. Most successful stand-up comedians will share stories about how scared they were the first time they stood up in front…
Sometime last year, a resident who was also an employee at The Saving Way ran into an old friend at the thrift store. He had not seen this friend in several years. From a few aisles over, I listened as…
Several years ago, I started a Snapchat tradition with my kids that we call “Church Feet”. Since they were older and we weren’t able to attend church together very often, on Sundays I would snap a picture of my feet…
Morgan Forney’s story is a testament to the power of faith, community, and the human spirit to overcome even the darkest of circumstances. As the first Georgia resident to enter His Way Atlanta, he has been a trailblazer for those…
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,…
Early Monday morning I was on my way to the oral surgeon to begin the first step of a six-month process of getting a dental implant. The doctor had said my front left tooth was beyond saving and needed to…
Lose weight. Exercise. Eat right. Work more. Work less. Save money. These are some of the concepts most often associated with New Year’s resolutions. Resolutions are about a fresh start, building a better version of ourselves. Unfortunately, another concept often…
Christmas is difficult, and incredibly messy. I know, not the most positive way to begin a blog post. But, it is true. Christmas comes with all kinds of baggage. Moreover, working at the thrift store, I handle Christmas items throughout…
Meet Ned O’Brien, a friend and volunteer at His Way Atlanta! Ned first learned about His Way Atlanta when Herb Dowdy invited him to attend a dinner that initiated the launch of the Atlanta ministry. He was impressed with His…
His Way Atlanta operates with the love, support, and prayer from a whole community of people behind the scenes. One amazing ministry partner from our community of volunteers and supporters is Grace Chapel Church of Christ. About Grace Chapel Church…
His Way Atlanta operates with the love, support, and prayer from a whole community of people behind the scenes. One very important ministry partner from our community of volunteers and supporters is Gwinnett Church of Christ. About Gwinnett Church of…
In National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, we meet Clark Griswold’s cousin Eddie and his family. Cousin Eddie, played by Randy Quaid, represents the annoying, crude, embarrassing family member that always seems to make the wrong decisions and always has the craziest…
Meet Mark Brasher, a friend and volunteer at His Way Atlanta! Mark has been a Physician Recruiter for Cross Country Locums for 33 years. He and his wife Pam are originally from Louisiana (Mark from Lake Charles and Pam from…
One of my favorite Bible stories is in Genesis 28. It is the story of Jacob’s ladder. The story tells us about a dream. In this dream, we hear about a staircase or ladder that reaches from the ground up…
Meet Malcom, a volunteer, friend, and supporter of His Way Atlanta! Malcom moved to Atlanta after graduating from Harding University and has lived here ever since. He and his wife, Susan, have been married for almost 43 years, and they…
When John Grisham’s The Firm was published in 1991, “everyone” was talking about how great it was, so I jumped on the bandwagon. I took it on a family camping trip and spent the entire weekend sitting by Lake Michigan devouring…
For Father’s Day this year, we’re highlighting the inspiring Dads we know through His Way in both Huntsville and Atlanta. We’ll hear from current residents and their fathers, a His Way graduate, a volunteer, and a member of leadership! Help…
For Father’s Day this year, we’re highlighting the inspiring Dads we know through His Way in both Huntsville and Atlanta. We’ll hear from current residents and their fathers, a His Way graduate, a volunteer, and a member of leadership! Help…
For Father’s Day this year, we’re highlighting the inspiring Dads we know through His Way in both Huntsville and Atlanta. We’ll hear from current residents and their fathers, a His Way graduate, a volunteer, and a member of leadership! Help…
For Father’s Day this year, we’re highlighting the inspiring Dads we know through His Way in both Huntsville and Atlanta. We’ll hear from current residents and their fathers, a His Way graduate, a volunteer, and a member of leadership! Help…
His Way would not be where it is today without all of the amazing volunteers and ministry partners through the years. This goes for His Way Atlanta, too, even though it just launched last year! When the leadership team began…
Meet Al Bingham, a friend and dedicated volunteer of the His Way Atlanta ministry! Al is originally from Decatur, Alabama, but he and his wife Becky have lived in Johns Creek since 1989. Al and Becky have a son who…
Hi, my name is Kevin Prempeh, originally from Queens, NY. About 25 years ago, I moved to Alabama with my adopted mother and family. My story is almost like every other one who has traveled along the path of righteousness…
No one loved college basketball and March Madness more than Dr. Sid Smith. As a dear lifelong friend and partner of Clyde Jones, Sid was a passionate servant of Jesus Christ. He was a founding board member of His Way…
When I was a shy kindergartener, my mom sent me off to school on March 17 without a stitch of green clothing on and no advanced notice about what this would mean. Apparently, my elementary school took this holiday seriously…and…
Have you seen the episode of Seinfeld where Jerry visits his parents in their Florida retirement community, and they are making plans to go to dinner? Morty and Helen are ready to go at 4:30 pm, and Jerry is appalled,…
Every morning at His Way, all the men begin their day with a group devotional. This devotional includes several times for prayer. We also take prayer requests daily and pray fervently for answers. Over time we notice a pattern of…
Turning a New Leaf is a blog series that highlights some of the fundamental changes and new starts the men at His Way make on their road to lasting, Christ-centered recovery. This week’s story is about graduate and Resident Director…
My name is Chris Willis and I currently have the privilege of serving my community as a Juvenile Court Judge. I was appointed to this position back in August 2018, and one of my responsibilities is to preside over our…
Meet Art Bailey, teacher, friend, and dedicated volunteer at His Way Atlanta! Art sought out sobriety in 1981 through Alcoholics Anonymous and still attends meetings to this day, 40 years later! He told us that he used to travel around…
Turning a New Leaf is a blog series that highlights some of the fundamental changes and new starts the men at His Way make on their road to lasting, Christ-centered recovery. This week’s story is about graduate and House Manager…
Meet our volunteer, Andrew Reynolds! Andrew was born in Denver, Colorado, and then he lived in New Jersey for 8 years. When he was 9, his family moved to Huntsville. Andrew loves to golf and played it in high school…
We often think about January as a time for new starts and positive change. A New Leaf is a blog series that highlights some of the fundamental changes and new starts the men at His Way make on their road…
We often think about January as a time for new starts and positive change. A New Leaf is a blog series that highlights some of the fundamental changes and new starts the men at His Way make on their road…
Upon arriving at His Way in 2016, the notion that a second chance at life might be possible seemed remote and unattainable. Having destroyed everything of value in my life, my prospects for the future were nonexistent. Just a few…
Christmas carols can elicit a lot of emotions, probably mostly good. But let’s be honest. Stores seem to start playing Christmas music earlier and earlier every year, and it can get a little tiring hearing “Deck the Halls” everywhere you…
How do you reclaim people who have suffered from a life of addiction and restore them to productive, Christlike service in society? At His Way, one of the answers is work! Why would work be so important? Our residents’ addictive…
“Blissfully Unaware, Friendless, Spiritually-Absent Alcoholic/Addict” On a sunny Sunday morning in April 2018, I stepped out of a hotel lobby having just paid for the prior week’s stay on credit I did not have. As I pondered my further fall…
Money is something most of us are acutely aware of every day. Whether we are paying bills, buying necessities from a store, or spending it on our hobbies, we generally know how much money it is safe for us to…
“The only person you are destined to become is the person you decide to be.” —Ralph Waldo Emerson Sobriety vs. Recovery RECOVERY IS HARD. I realize that statement may sound obvious, simplistic, and even naïve, but the fact of the…
Addiction is nothing if not a habit. Indeed, we might even do away with the term “addiction” if we did not need it to denote such a uniquely gripping and destructive habit. Some argue that addiction is a chronic medical…
Not My First Rodeo Before I begin, let me first say that this is not my first time at His Way. My graduation next month will not be my first. I feel it necessary to give this disclaimer because I…
My Mugshot: Greg Edmonds Greg says he learned everything from his uncle when he was a kid, like how to hunt, fish, cuss, and make moonshine. Throughout his school years he was involved in sports, which led him to the…
What Brought Me to His Way My name is John Neiland and, I’m honored to be here tonight with several others from Atlanta, Georgia, representing His Way Atlanta! My personal journey in recovery ministry started some 20+ years ago. I…
What Brought Me to His Way My name is David Hargett. I am so thankful to be here this evening and honored to be asked to speak and briefly share with you how God is working through so many individuals…
My “Mugshot” My name is Melissa Clark. I was born into a family of addicts and alcoholics on both my mother and father’s side. I have endured all forms of abuse: physical, emotional, and even sexual. I started using narcotics…
My “Mugshot” My name is James Steven Shelton, known as Steve. I was born and raised in Huntsville by my grandparents, Clarence and Sarah Shelton, since I was the age of six. I was born to their oldest daughter, Nancy,…
With over 40 residents on our campus at any time, we simply could not meet the tremendous task of teaching, counseling, and mentoring each one without the army of men who invest their time and talents into assisting us. Often…
Would you trust a group of men with a proven track record of deceit, broken promises, and selfish actions? Would you trust a group of men that recently could not even trust themselves? If you answered no, then you may…
I became a Christian through the visionary and bold efforts of Christians at the University of Washington in 1979. My early formative spiritual years were shaped around teaching and ministry on the college campus at Pepperdine, the Denver campuses, Princeton…
His Way was born from a passion to help Christians reach those struggling with addiction with the transforming message of the Gospel. We articulated that focus in a formal vision statement a couple of years ago: “Advance Christ-centered recovery as…
Eleven years ago, I made one of the best decisions of my life. That was when I began teaching a weekly life skills class at His Way Recovery Center, a Christ-centered recovery program for men in Huntsville, AL. This decision…
“Yo Doc, we gettin’ together tomorrow?” “Sure Pat. I’ll pick you up” This was a common interchange I would have with my friend Patrick O’Malley over the last dozen or so years. I first met Patrick through my association with…
Almost ten years ago when I came to work at The Saving Way, I knew very little about addiction. For most of my life, if I thought about it at all, I (arrogantly) thought an addict was likely a vagrant…
As a manager at The Saving Way thrift stores, I often get to see some really cool things that come through in the donations. I am often asked, “What is the weirdest thing ever donated?” And that list is quite…
Here is an interesting verse familiar to many of you. “What do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is there anything worth more than your soul?” (Matthew 16:26). Not trying to take away from God’s…
My name is Jim Norville. I have been a volunteer at His Way Recovery Center for the past 13 years, because I believe it is the best, life-changing ministry I know about. When men come to His Way, they have…
Several years ago, I discovered that one of my friends (and former His Way graduate) was deathly afraid of clowns. We were going to the grand opening of one of our thrift stores. Unbeknownst to us, The Saving Way management…
Jon Brown passed away just 8 days before his 39th birthday. It was surprising, tragic, and shocking. It was way too soon for those of us who knew and loved him. It was just when Jon was finally getting momentum…
As David headed to the frontlines of Israel’s military conflict with the Philistines to bring supplies to his brothers, he found an astonishing situation. The army of the God of Israel was cowering in their tents paralyzed by their common…
Six weeks ago, when we were first feeling the impact of this pandemic, I never imagined where it would take us. So many in our world seem absolutely paralyzed by fear. I had a friend share with me some ancient…
What a strange week it has been. As major sporting leagues and events cancel seasons and championships, as our stores are raided for toilet paper and cleaning supplies, as families hunker down in place for long spring breaks or the…
I just returned from a long weekend in Enumclaw, WA to celebrate my father’s 93rd birthday. After arriving and having lunch with Dad, my wife and I went for a walk around the small gateway town into Mt. Rainier National…
Arnie had an army on the golf course. McHale had a navy on television. Did you know Barry has an army of first responders in Huntsville, AL? Barry Johnson retired from a career in technology and sales management on a…
Last week, I went on a mission trip…not to Africa or South America or any foreign country, but to a leadership conference at a nearby Christian university. In case you’re not aware, in my new position at His Way as…
What follows is an actual wedding invitation from the wife of a recent His Way graduate. Consider this your wedding invitation. Jackie and I have been friends for three years. We’ve been very close friends for almost two years. We…
There is an invading army attacking the future of America. Over 64,000 young men and women die annually due to opiate overdose. This annual loss surpasses the loss of all American soldiers that were lost in the entire 19 year…
“And He will turn the hearts of fathers to their children and the hearts of children to their fathers. . .” -Malachi 4:6 John’s lifestyle of alcohol and drug abuse began to get out of control shortly after his mother…
I am a grateful believer, fearlessly developing my relationship with God the creator through Jesus Christ, guided by scripture, with help from the Holy Spirit; my name is Andrew. Eight years of daily heroin use has led down some dark…
“And I am sure of this, that He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Christ Jesus.” For me, this is one of the great assurances of God, that He completes…
“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” In our hurried and harried world, is this not a promise we all clamor for? Rest! As I interacted with people this week, the…
Great News! Construction has begun on our long planned for and much awaited Community Center. This is a project that was part of the initial dream of His Way ten years ago, but has been worked on in earnest for…
This year marks “10 Years in Recovery” at His Way. We had a great celebration this past weekend with current & formal residents, past & present staff members, Board Members, and volunteers!
From time to time, area youth groups will visit His Way to help with a project and/or encourage our residents. We wanted to share this letter from a 15 year old girl that visited His Way with her church group…
It has been said that addicts don’t build relationships, they take hostages. I dare say that that can be said for many more than just addicts. Because hostage taking in relationships happens every time I enter a relationship to get…
As we celebrate 10 years of Christ-centered recovery ministry, I would like to reflect on success. When this ministry began, and known national recovery rates were less than 10%, we became very careful about how we defined success. As Christians,…
My whole life I’ve used anything I could to cope with the feeling of being uncomfortable. I hated the feeling of being uncomfortable. I’ve had multiple ways to escape the feeling in the past. Being around a lot of people…
The United States Surgeon General, Dr. Vivek Murthy, unveiled his office’s long-awaited report, Facing Addiction in America: The Surgeon General’s Report on Alcohol, Drugs, and Health, last week. The report finds alcohol and drug misuse and severe substance use disorders,…
I escorted one of our residents to “Drug Court” this morning and witnessed something awe-inspiring. It’s a program to screen, educate, rehabilitate, & monitor convicted defendants in lieu of criminal prosecution. After the first case on the docket was reviewed…
Click the link below to hear His Way founder, Clyde Jones, speak about love, his faith, and His Way! https://hiswayinc.org/clydejones.html
We are thrilled and grateful that a local church decided to honor the fathers in their congregation by making a generous donation to His Way this past Sunday. But, more than the financial support was the spiritual vision and partnership…
A new study is out concerning the addictive properties of Kratom. Thanks to support and efforts of many concerned Alabamians, Kratom is now banned in the state. Other states are sure to follow. http://www.scientificamerican.com/article/recreational-drug-kratom-hits-the-same-brain-receptors-as-strong-opioids/?WT.mc_id=SA_FB_HLTH_NEWS
Recently, I missed our Sunday morning assembly due to being sick. I cannot remember the last time I missed an assembly due to illness. While I was not feeling well, I still did my personal study during the congregational bible…
I heard this the other day, “Do you know the difference between a doctor and God? God doesn’t think He is a doctor.” I know that I am not a doctor either, but I do have observations of health that…
A plague has hit Alabama within the past few years…Kratom. Kratom is an herbal extract derived from a root that grows in Southeast Asia. While illegal in the countries it grows in, this substance has been imported into the U.S.…
In celebration of our youngest granddaughter’s birth, we recently attended her baby dedication at my son’s congregation. They were celebrating the addition of eighteen children to their church family in the past year. It was a beautifully done celebration. A…
Matt’s story has a familiar beginning. He’s from a good family and grew up going to church. While he was a good student and played sports all through high school, his drug use started when he was only 13 years…
Christmas is the time of year most filled with expectations. Some from our childhood experiences, some from our culture, and some from the constant onslaught of our media. But I have the privilege of spending Christmas with many whose experience…
(taken from Tom’s Reynolds’ message at His Way’s December 3rd Christmas dinner) His Way is about God’s power transforming lives eternally. He began by transforming mine. As God led me through the greatest tragedy of my life, through the wilderness…
On October 18, 2015, His Way celebrated its 19th one year graduate. While one year of sobriety is a great accomplishment this graduate’s story is even more remarkable. Chad had already suffered many years of loss due to substance abuse…
Seeing Tiger Woods struggle shooting rounds of +4 and +3 on golf courses he dominated for years, causes questions to continually swirl regarding his future and even his present. Golf commentator, Paul Azinger, made a statement that as an entire…
The peace, quiet, and harmony in Charleston, SC after the tragic racially motivated murder of nine African-American Bible study attendees at Emanuel AME church on June 17, 2015 by a white supremist youth stands in stark contrast to the almost…
Ask Fred to tell you about his life up until now and he is pretty straight forward. “I had a really rough childhood. At age 15, I started drinking and smoking pot and that was the start of 43 years of…
I just recently returned from visiting my family in the Pacific Northwest and also attending the U.S. Open Golf tournament held in my home town of Tacoma, WA. We were able to share some wonderful family experiences which we recorded…
Here’s an article in Shattered Magazine about Mike, a graduate of His Way! 271 || Addiction and Sanctification: It’s About Progress, Not Perfection
ISIS is the contemporary face of evil. Their “YouTube” videos fill the airwaves with innocents, of which many are Christians, being brutally slaughtered publically in an effort to terrorize the world with their power and rage. But faces of evil…
The stories we can tell about items we have found in our donation piles at The Saving Way thrift stores are limitless. The stuff we get runs the gamut from hilarious to disturbing and from goofy to gross. And yes, we often…
Last month, Kobe Bryant, star guard for the Los Angeles Lakers, set an NBA record in his 19th season, by missing more field goals than anyone in the history of professional basketball (13,421). This report widely circulated as one more…
I was leading a Bible discussion at the headquarters of General Foods. It was a very interesting group because we had executives, middle management, and line workers all together discussing God’s truths on a weekly basis. It was a very…
At His Way, we welcome any man who is committed to overcoming addiction, but we were not sure about Mike. Mike’s professional diagnosis coming out of jail made him well beyond our capabilities. He had spent the majority of his…
The halls of Alcoholics Anonymous are filled with desperate addicts seeking hope. They begin every meeting with, “Hi, I’m ____, and I’m an alcoholic.” This is a way to keep the addict openly confessional and never losing sight of the…
On Monday, June 16, 2014, it was announced the great hall of fame baseball player, Tony Gwynn, had passed away of salivary gland cancer at the age of 54. Tony played his entire career of 20 seasons for the San…
On April 10, 2014, Justin was our 107th graduate of His Way. It took him seven months to graduate our six month program. But here is why. Due to circumstances beyond his control, by the time Justin’s six month graduation…
One of our volunteer instructors gave a personality test to our residents a while back. One of the residents was astounded that he came out as a “perfectionist”. He came to me and asked if I could believe that he…
My 87 year old father had just put out an email request to the family. He recently had to change his vehicle license plate and received a new number, AOF 0073. In my father’s always creative way, he wanted the…
Sims was sharing his testimony of deliverance through Jesus Christ with the other residents at His Way. Every resident before they graduate the first six months of our program must teach a graduation class. Usually the class is a personal…
In this journey that we call the Christian walk, I have experienced the indescribable joy of being on the mountain top, enjoying intimate fellowship with my Creator. I have also known the fear, doubt, guilt, and shame of enduring seemingly…
In sailing, one sets his sail to catch the wind. The set of the sail is sometimes called the attitude. If one sets their attitude to capture God’s wind of grace, this combination of an attitude set to catch God’s…
One of my great family Thanksgiving traditions is going to a church member’s log cabin up in the hills of rural Alabama. Several of us that are living too far away from our biological families gather there every year to…
At His Way, we teach that the life of recovery is living out the kingdom character of the beatitudes. Jesus states that that character begins with realizing your poverty of spirit, the bankruptcy of your own spirit. This beatitude begins…
We met her at the beginning of the summer. My sister-in-law called her, “Natasha”. I first met her in a crepe myrtle tree near our house, a beautiful black and yellow garden spider that had spun an intricate and beautiful…
What did you want to do for your 16th birthday? Line up at the Department of Motor Vehicles to get your license? Your ticket to freedom and independence. Your right of passage into adulthood. Did you want to go to…
Growing up in Tacoma, Washington, we lived at the base of Mount Rainier. Its 14,411 foot elevation as seen from sea level in Tacoma is a majestic sight. Yet having grown up with that view every day, it quickly became…
(taken from His Way’s entry for a local church’s prayer journal) Addicts, like most Americans, are notorious takers. They value things and even people based upon their usefulness to them. Having been so effectively marketed by our economically driven culture,…
They say character is caught not taught. And unfortunately youth sports have, over the years, displayed some pretty bad character by parents and coaches, who are more concerned about winning or living out their dreams vicariously through their children. But…
A couple of weeks ago, I shot my best golf score at Huntsville Country Club, a 77. Having finished my round, I couldn’t help but tell everyone. The club pro asked how my round was and I was glad he…
The stories of the innocent victims, simple bystanders cheering on their loved ones and friends at the end of one of the most grueling of human endeavors, the Boston Marathon, is horrifying. The highly respected Richards family now has a…
The FBI, National Guard, Terror Task Force, and the entire intelligence community are searching frantically and fiercely for the perpetrator of this ghastly bombing that has killed 3 and hospitalized 183. America and the world is asking who did it. …
As I reflected over a recent graduation at His Way where 4 men celebrated completing our program, I was struck by each of the young men’s very unique and yet similar stories. One of the 12-month graduates I had known…
If you’re aiming at the wrong thing, even if you hit your target, you still lose. So many guys come in to His Way with “back problems.” They want their family back, their job back, the car back, the house…
The Bureau of National Vital Statistics published their findings early in 2012. It showed an alarming increase in the number of deaths directly stemming from drug use, emphasizing overdoses of prescription painkillers. Drugs are now responsible for 37,485 deaths per…
“Feed My Sheep” started my first few weeks at The Way. I was assigned to clean out the fridge on Saturday, so I did. As I began to put some food in the trash, I was deeply convicted and knew…
I had the blessing of having parents of a 14 year old young man bring their son to me because of their concern of the wrong choices he appears to be making. I praised these parents for their alarmed response…
Marshall, one of the residents at The Way, was a true inspiration to those he served during our trip to New Jersey to help with the Hurricane Sandy relief efforts. He was always found in the center of the work…
One of my great family Thanksgiving traditions after moving to Huntsville was going to the Johnson’s log house in the country with all my brothers and sisters from church who were unable (or unwilling) to get with their physical families…
A paradox is a seemingly contradictory statement that may nonetheless be true. The word literally means a conflict of expectation. Jesus’ teaching flourished in paradox, because God’s kingdom is by nature paradoxical from our world. He taught things like, “Whoever…
All Proceeds from The Turkey 2012 Golf Tournament benefit a Christ centered alcohol and drug recovery center in Huntsville called The Way. It’s a really fun tournament especially with the Turkey Ball competition in addition to the traditional scramble. With…
I was sitting across the desk from a friend, who had just failed his drug test. His urine test had come up positive for opiates, but he denied his guilt. He insisted the test was wrong. So we tried again…
I recently had the honor of performing a wedding of two individuals who I had association with through their struggle with addiction. The woman I had helped through a group we started through our church about 15 years ago. She…
I’m returning from a trip out to Seattle to help my 85 year old father move in to an assisted living facility. My brother and sister and our significant others have spent the weekend sorting through our past. Remembering special…
“I came here to get my life back…now, I realize I need a new life.” John
Having arrived at the ripe old age of 53, I recently played in a golf tournament in which I was classified with the “Senior” group. So I found myself playing from the up tees with men who were by and…
For the first time in several years, a meeting in South Alabama gave me and my wife an opportunity to go to the gulf for a few days of relaxation at the beach. We looked forward to this opportunity for…
Most of us love to celebrate Independence Day, a day that Americans remember their freedom from British oppression by gathering with family and friends for picnics, pool parties, and relaxing times at the lake. It’s a day that typically ends…
I believe for all of us working with The Way, the following passage from Isaiah 61:1 states well what we try to do. 61 The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has…
http://www.al.com/living/index.ssf/2012/07/saving_ways_new_store.html Join us for the Grand Opening of The Saving Way Winchester this Saturday starting at 10:00!
I keep seeing the same Super Bowl introduced commercial on television. It’s a cocktail party scene where everyone is gazing at and murmuring to one another about one of the attendees, a female chocolate M&M. They are assuming that…
Long before I became the Director of The Way, but most certainly since I have become the director, I have often heard the bemoaning cry of “I know God and others have forgiven me, but I cannot forgive myself.” Forgive…
I have consistently been hearing a radio commercial advertising, “Ageless Male.” It’s some type of testosterone supplement that renews men in their 40’s and 50’s to the vitality they had in their 20’s and 30’s. They claim that as a…
God Working in the Lives of Humans Reflections about The Way from Clyde Jones In Paul’s address to the Athenians in Acts 17:24-31, he declares in verse 27 that (among other things), “God determined the times and places that men…
Words from Sean after his graduation from The Way last week: “While at The Way, I have gotten my life back. My relationships with members of my family are the best they’ve ever been. I came into this program beat…
On Thursday, April 19, 2012 I was sitting in a large sanctuary of a church in Charlestown, Indiana with a few of my brothers who are waging a war against addiction. We were there to mourn the loss of one…
Joseph was a righteous man. That is what Matthew 1:19 says about the earthly father of Jesus. But what is righteousness and what do righteous men do? Oh, I know all the definitions of righteousness, but what does righteousness look…
Watch Way graduate and current staff member, Jeremy Mitchell, speak to his home congregation about his life in addiction and experiences at The Way. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dnRYm539xhg
(excerpt from Clyde Jones comments on April 8th, 2012) A 2003 Time Inc. survey asked the question, “what are the words you most want to hear from someone of importance to you?” I asked the guys at The Way last…
When I was teaching at UAH in 2001, a close friend and professor, whose office was just across from mine, was a Muslim and served as the local Imam in the area. He was a very nice, humble man that…
Only God can turn a Mess into a Message A Test into a Testimony A Trial into a Triumph And a Victim into a Victory
Michael Jr. Giving Back Over the years I’ve looked for times and ways to bring laughter to shelters, prisons, halfway houses…places where hope is in short supply and laughter’s missing. This gave me a true glimpse of the real…
“Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you saying, “This is the way; walk in it.” — Isaiah 30:21 No matter how many wrong turns we’ve taken in the past,…
The Book of James is well known for its explanation that “faith without works is dead.” James 2 beginning in verse 14 through26 gives a thorough and very significant explanation of this much needed realization. The reality James emphasizes is…
Today reminds me a lot of April 27, 2011 when North Alabama was ravaged with tornadoes. We started the day with tornado sirens about 9:30AM which caused the men at The Way to seek shelter in our Administrative Offices in…
Before the famed frenzy of March Madness and the bracketology begins, I go through a bracketology of my own for my favorite sport, golf. This week is the Accenture World Match Play where the top 64 golfers in the world…
In an effort to continue to provide everything possible to help the residents of The Way have a new beginning, we, through the assistance and leadership of our friends at Asbury, are offering Dave Ramsey’s internationally acclaimed course, Financial Peace. …
What meant the most to me was the way the staff treated us. They were extremely nice and welcoming to all of us, and they always had a smile on their face. They treated us with love and respect. Most…
Having watched the Super Bowl recently, I was interested in the popular cultural fascination with the famed and very expensive Super Bowl commercials. I asked my class on Monday morning what they thought of the commercials. They in general were…
Have you ever heard people ask that question? If God were to speak to our society today, what would he say? In Exodus 19, there is an interesting verse that makes up part of the well-known series of events where…
Thank you John & Dorothy Bridges, John Serrano, and all our friends at Asbury Methodist for making this possible!
In John 5, Jesus asks the man who had been crippled for 38 years, “do you want to get well?”. At first this seems like a cruel, insensitive question, but when you really investigate it and understand the nature of…
There was a very popular business book a few years back called, “Hope is Not a Strategy”. “…set your hope fully of the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed.” Actually, hope sounds like a pretty good…
Look at this great message taken from “The Fax of Life” newsletter…. Lots of people have trouble understanding why Josh Hamilton called a press conference last Friday. Told the story he told. Left himself so wide open to criticism. But…
In my morning Bible study with the residents on Matthew 18, I asked them to answer the two questions Jesus is asked by His disciples. The first question is, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” The second…
“..when he predicted the sufferings of Christ and the glories that would follow.” I Peter 1:11 When Peter was physically with Jesus, he had a difficult time understanding the ‘sufferings of Christ’. He was ready for the glory, but didn’t…
“Humans want to create the god they’re comfortable with instead of living the life HE’S comfortable with”. — Rick Burgess
There are no more profound words in all a man’s life than to hear the voice of his father saying, ”Son, I am pleased with you!” or “I am proud of you!”. Men crave that affirmation and unfortunately will do…
“In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope…” I Peter 1: 3 Peter writes this letter as someone who understands what it’s like to mess up and make mistakes. Known at times as someone…
5 Graduations from The Way this month, and 4 new residents arriving today from Mobile, Indiana, Illinois, and Huntsville!
As we journey through the often too familiar annual Christmas experience, I was reminded how much of the story we assume from tradition, television specials, Christmas cards, and carols. I took and shared a Christmas quiz with many of my…
In my morning Bible study with the residents on Matthew 18, I asked them to answer the two questions Jesus is asked by His disciples. The first question is, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” The second…
“…for you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls.” I Peter 1:9
4 men are scheduled to gradate from The Way this month – 2 of those are planning to remain at The Way for an additional 6 months to participate in our graduate program. Congratulations, Grant…our first 2012 graduate!
Sometimes men come to The Way directly from another “situation”. Perhaps from another rehab program or from a detox center. Sometimes, men come directly from jail. In those cases, it’s not uncommon for a family member to contact us to…
