We are truly a quick fix
or immediate gratification society. We
have drive-through fast food, drive-through pharmacy, drive-through car wash,
etc. Whatever the need or want the
quicker it is met the better. Alcohol
and drugs are perhaps the ultimate “quick fix”.
I can escape life and not feel emotional pain. However, how many others ways in life do we
each look for the quick fix or easy way.
I had a total hip replacement surgery the end of February. My first question for the doctor was: “when can I go back to work?” He told me I could go back part-time in 2 weeks,
however, he did not add that I could not drive for 4 weeks and I would still
perhaps need pain medication. Being on
pain medication was a reminder of how easy addiction can slip in. I noticed and other peers noticed that my
clarity of thought was compromised on the pain medication. I was unprepared for the “recovery” time
needed. It is almost 6 weeks since the
surgery and I am still working toward a full recovery.
When others decide to stop using alcohol or
drugs, we talk about “recovery” and that it is not easy. It is actually hard work. Often the value of living in the moment, one
day at a time, is recognized as the best way to live and work a good recovery
program. The value of patience with
myself and others is encouraged as we begin to let go of guilt or shame or
blaming others. If we are “working”
recovery, this impacts those around us as I begin to live true to myself and
my values. It often calls for changes
from loved ones and friends. Hopefully,
I begin to make changes or grow toward a balance of self-care. Learning
to forgive myself and others and to love myself is critical for accepting help
from those around me. All growth and
change calls for patience from me.
I found all those recovery tools to recovery
from addiction were applicable to my recovery from surgery. However, while my recovery from a health
issue may have an end in sight, recovery from addiction is a life long
journey. So can we be patient and enjoy
the journey whether it is short or long term?
Sue Judd, MSS, LSAC
Licensed Substance Abuse Counselor
Sue Judd, MSS, LSAC
Licensed Substance Abuse Counselor
