Whether or not you know it, it’s likely there is someone in your life that has struggled with drug addiction or alcoholism at one time or another. It is a challenge that doesn’t discriminate between occupation, class, or race – everyone can find themselves in a situation where they need help.
That’s why it’s so important to acknowledge that real people are dealing with these challenges, and that the services offered by the organizations Family Tree Recovery supports are so critical for helping people stay on their path to sobriety.
In this interview, you’ll meet Spencer, a resident of Joshua 1:2 Fellowship located in San Angelo, TX, and learn about the challenges he has faced as well as what has kept him dedicated to recovery.
Tell us your name and a little about yourself.
My name is Spencer. I’m a resident here at Joshua 1:2 and have been for almost a year. Prior to this, I worked as an Arborist for nearly a decade. Currently, at Joshua 1:2, I volunteer doing many tasks such as maintenance and several other handy man jobs around the property.
What motivated you to seek help at Joshua 1:2?
This has kind of been a last resort for me. I have tried many times in the past to get sober, but I continued on a downward spiral. Finding Joshua 1:2 has been such a blessing. It has really put me on a faith-based, honest path to getting sober and to leading a constructive life.
Tell us about your experience at Joshua 1:2
It has honestly been an exhilarating experience. I’m part of something really big here – something greater than myself. We have multiple projects going on that I am honored to be a part of. Things like fixing up the church, creating more housing, and much more to help more people get sober.
What has made the biggest impact on your recovery so far?
I actually want to get sober now! Since being here, I have been forgiven of my mistakes. I’ve been shown blatant honesty at times, but it’s always out of love. This place has given me a reason to succeed.
These people here have shown me that they actually care – care about me, care about my recovery – and in doing so, it has made me want to get sober for myself, for them, and for my family! I am convicted by this place!
What do you wish more people knew about addiction and recovery?
That it is real! It’s hard for those who don’t struggle with addiction to understand. Most people don’t get that this is a real thing, it’s a real struggle that some even call a disease.
Recovering from addiction is painstakingly difficult and it takes a lot of work and support to have any success. I can’t just stop, it’s not that simple. I want to, but again, this is real and can’t be solved by saying to myself, “you should just quit.” It’s just not that simple, even if I wish it was.
I want people to understand that addiction exists, it’s not going anywhere, and it’s a real grind to get through.
What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve encountered in your recovery from addiction?
The biggest challenges I’ve faced are trying to stay patient, trusting in the process, getting rid of my ego, and no longer thinking I can do this on my own.
I struggled with coming to the realization that I needed help and support from others if I stood any chance at beating this. I’ve always been a lone wolf and had to learn that I couldn’t lock myself away and hide from my addiction, and that I needed the backing of my friends and family, my community, and the support of so many – that was a difficult thing to come to terms with.
How can people better support those who are struggling with drug and alcohol addiction?
Donating – whether it be your time, your money, or simple letter of your support – all these things make a major impact on those struggling with addiction.
I think it’s also important that people become aware of addiction and some of the challenges it presents, not only to the addicted but to their families and communities as well. And to open up the discussion more. Everyone should make a point to talk to someone they think may be struggling with addiction and open up the conversation. An early intervention can save someone years of pain and agony.
Who inspires you to keep moving forward in your recovery?
Pastor Mike, my wife, my family – pretty much everyone I should have cared about while I wasn’t sober but who was still always there for me. I want them to know, and I want to show them that I was worth it!
About Joshua 1:2 Fellowship
The Joshua 1:2 Fellowship is a non-denominational Christian church that places a special focus on addiction and rehabilitation. Their current pastor, Mike Suarez came from a troubled background and suffered for years from addictions to heroin, methadone, and cigarettes. One day, unsatisfied with the course his life was taking, he turned to God for help and found himself freed from addiction and now seeks to provide guidance for those who may find themselves in a similar situation. The church strives to service the local community and be a home for lost souls. Learn more.