Frances....what everyone has said before me probably means that I need not say anything, but I'll throw my 2 cents in anyway.
What I do every working day with those that I serve as a peer support specialist is act as a living example that recovery is possible. I share what has worked for me, validate what my peers are going through, show empathy and most of all share my HOPE and belief that they too can find a recovery that works for them. I am bit of a "fixer" and would likke to "do" for people but I recognise that each persons recovery is their own and they must walk their own path. I will and am however there walking right beisde them.
In a personal context though it can be difficult to seperate from the feelings of sadness when someone we have come to care for has a speed bump in their recovery....but I am glad I feel sad now, I am human and feel and for once am learning that its ok.
Keep doing what you are doing Frances.... your path and journey may well be the inspiration that someone needs one day!
I got a new work car yesterday and felt really unsafe in it, the steering felt weird, was a funny noise near the brakes and it floated all over the road. Dropped it in to the mechanic......it needs both front shocks, both front brakes and something in the steering replaced and a full service! It has had a hammering by a colleague who is no longer with us!! Glad I got it looked at.
Funny though.... it had to stay in overnight and I forgot to take my garage door opener and only realised when I got home!!!!!!!!!!!!! Locked out!!!
In the past this would have ruined my evening. Not now
Happy Tuesday when you get to it Overs!