Originally Posted by
blackandblue 
Whatever pain they are masking with substances is too big for us to deal with. Whatever pain we are masking by holding on and trying to control is too big for them to deal with. These kinds of tendencies, from what I am learning, draw us to each other. The addict and the codependent or the codependent addict (add mental illness or any number of other issues and multiply the problem).
WOW, this is a huge concept to grasp yet seems so simple. Your right. I think that I might read the book your reading and see if I can find some of your strength within its pages.
I hope that you continue to reach out to us, it helps to know that there are hundreds of us on the same path, some further along then others. You are an amazing person and you will have the life you deserve!