Stories of Kindness from Around the World

I am a Strong Mother, Trying My Best


--by ms_joy, posted Jul 1, 2017
Yesterday, I drove my 23 year old daughter to the nearby counseling center, to attempt once again to complete the intake process- which is only done on a first come, first serve basis. I did my best to encourage and give her uplifting support as she was feeling anxious of the whole process. (As a private person, on private matters of my own, I understand- especially with regard to vulnerabilities).

While we were waiting, just minutes before the center opened their door, a young gal the same age as my daughter, came in. She had a beautiful smile I remember, and spoke of a her desire to make a difference for others from all she learned through her past drug abuse.

It had been two weeks since her stopping the use of heroine. She shared that she realized her life went by, in those 10 years, and wants to do more with her life than that. I felt that she was sincere in her desire (Just as my daughter has been sincere, although was yet to be ready to undergo addictions counseling vs. mental health, and was yet to be ready for helping others move past this coping mechanism either. Although, she does take a stand and 'limit' people when she notices their use/'need' is over the edge).

Anyhow, back to this young lady, who recently embarked on some first steps in overcoming heroine addiction. I gave her a high five for her accomplishment and good choices to come this far, and sincerely let her know how good it is to see her beautiful smile. Her smile beamed even more after I complimented her, and after the high five, she seemed to savor the feel-good moment of her success, of which she seemed very grateful for.

My daughter was standing next to me and focused on doing her best to stay calm on the outside, while inside she was feeling quite anxious, so she barely noticed what this gal was saying. Yet, she did manage to open up and talk with her a bit about the noisy ceiling fan in the hall where we were waiting.

After a brief time in the lobby, once inside the center for a second try to complete the intake assessment process, my daughter was sent back and told she can try again the following Friday. The assessor had training that day and was unable to complete it. I was so distraught because I was concerned about my daughter's history of giving up on the counseling. All the while trying to let go, let it be, have faith, and have all the positive outlook I could muster. In this frame of mind, with all my mental energy, I never noticed if the young gal I spoke to was still there. I had wanted to say or do something more than I did.

Next Friday, it is a new opportunity for my daughter to try once again, as well as the possibility of being there for this young gal, too. I continue to be the example of self-love, (through assertiveness and healthy boundaries) for my daughter, strengthening this skill, while encouraging my daughter's positive changes.

I noticed yesterday, she said to her friends, "I am a strong woman!" . This made me smile, as a boomerang gift to me from when I had been speaking to her enthusiastically about how we are strong women, trying our best, and we overcome and triumph through our life challenges. Letting her know I believe in her (verbally and in the love note on the wall above where her belongings are kept). While she was focused on the physical, in that moment, I think she was likely feeling strength in all ways, too. I hope so.

It is one positive step at a time, no matter how slow it goes.
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Readers Comments

John74 wrote: What a strong woman both of you are! My sister too had an addiction problem and we tried many times to help her but she just couldn't help herself. So, she was healed by God taking her home. Tell your daughter that she has the strength and that all things are possible! She is beautiful and will make her life new again once she can overcome the addictions. Love, light and prayers to you and she! Thank you for sharing. <3
ms_joy wrote: Much gratitude, J! I am sorry for your family's loss, while glad that suffering is no longer, too.
Mish wrote: Not an easy journey, for sure, but your love for your daughter and your strength will carry you both through. Visualizing grace there ❤️
mindyjourney wrote: Truly, one step and a time, my friend will get us up that hill...blessing of love and support for you and daughter ❤️
alisamom wrote: Wishing all the best to you and your daughter. What a difficult journey it it! don't you wish that mental health was as easy to obtain as other things in this country! I thought my daughter having to wait 3 months for her intake app. was bad, but I do think having to come back again and again to get in would be worse. Some people just can't do that over and over again! (((((((((((((((((((((ms_joy&daughter))))))))))))))))))))
DANCE wrote: It must be so hard, you are indeed strong, I do hope you'll carry on and get all the help you need for all of you. Lots of love
kjoyw wrote: Oh, you are such a strong mother! And the task before you is a challenging one, indeed. Your daughter is so fortunate to have your support and love and strength on her side. And you are so right about this being a "one step at a time" process. Even if they are just baby steps and even I'd you go slowly! You Will get there! 🙏
splain wrote: One foot in front of the other. Just keep going.Keeping you both in my thoughts,
Lilijourney wrote: Sending you a brilliant glow of loving light. I have such admiration for your conviction to support your daughter. Bless you on this journey as you walk each other hOMe.
leoladyc728 wrote: I know she will be just fine. Love that she said she was a strong woman

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