Finishing Well

It does not matter how you start the race, or how well you run in it, all that matters is how you finish.

I have a friend in ICU. We have known each other for over 20 years. We met in the halls of AA each having six months of sobriety. Unfortunately, he was given prescription drugs to manage pain associated with Agent Orange. These drugs eventually took over his life. He was on his motorcycle Sunday. He did not notice the red light nor the van stopped at it at an intersection he has been at a million times. He did not negotiate evasive action in time to miss the van and went down. It is not likely he will make it. They identified 20 different medications in his system. Although he continued to live sober from alcohol, no one knew about his drug addiction. He was unwilling to hear his wife's appeals to place himself in a position of accountability - a sponsor, their pastor, anyone - and address the issue. Although he loves the Lord, he is too deep in his struggle to be honest with himself and others. If this seems judgmental, I don't mean it to be. There for the grace of God, go I. I just love him and my heart is broken for him over the why and the possibility that he may not finish the race in a way that brings him honor.

For those of us who deal with addiction in ourselves or in others, we must follow the prescription for spiritual health. We must on a daily basis evaluate our relationship with our Heavenly Father to be sure we are not carrying around resentments or a rebellious attitude. We must utilize the tools we learn through the 12 steps about faith, courage, honesty, willingness if we are going to live happy and free. For those of us in Addicts Redeemed, we know who our God is and our victory is already determined. We hide in the Shadow of his Wing and we are safe.

Please pray for this family. They are devastated by this. The Good News is that my friend knows his Jesus and is safe in His care.

Blessings today to you all..
H.