Chilling memories

Alcoholism is wicked, it slithers in quietly like a snake. It moves in gracefully until it takes a strangle-hold.

This past week, we have witnessed historically cold weather across the country. We have seen ice storms and record lows that have lasted for days which have caused power outages, loss of basic needs like water, grocery shortages, and most heartbreaking, death.

With all of this, my mind could not help but think of the homeless and the tragic situation this places them in. A rush of memories of my dad come flooding forward. It was such a short time ago, we found my dad hunkered down in an abandoned trailer home during an unusually cold period. Freezing temps, a home without heat, electricity, or plumbing. He was blessed to have family who showed up with food, clothes, a sleeping bag and other supplies. I stood in disbelief as I witnessed my very own loved one homeless, freezing and hungry. Since then, I have tried to push these memories to the back of my mind, but I think what keeps the them coming back is the fact that almost daily, I hear stories of how alcohol has taken over someone's life. I hear the heartbreaking stories of divorce, death and destruction. Families are broken, loved ones are exhausted and at their wits end with tolerance and patience. We ALL know an alcoholic. This past year, quite possibly brought on more cases of alcoholism than ever. COVID 19 has isolated people, it has taken those who suffer from depression, anxiety, substance abuse and more and caused these issues to become all consuming. For many who did not have drinking issues before, this year of isolation, job loss and death has now pushed the innocent into a downward spiral.

Alcoholism is wicked, it slithers in quietly like a snake. It moves in gracefully until it takes a strangle-hold. It hurts our children, our parents, our spouses, our friends. For those prone to addiction, you are at greatest risk. This socially accepted drug camouflages itself in good buzzes and fun times. But you are one drink away from bad decisions, DUI, death and abuse. If you think you or someone you love has a drinking problem, please don't be afraid to speak up! You may save a life. You may save a family or a marriage.

Almost a year after finding my dad in that trailer, God would intervene, he would place my dad in a position to get medical care and, eventually be guided to shelter (however reluctant he was and still is). I don't have my dad back and I never will, but this recent cold spell made me grateful that he has shelter and people to care for him now. So many do not. If you don't know where to turn, reach out to me.