Perception and Reality

Sometimes, during the relentless struggle with an at-risk child, it’s not only what 
happens that is notable, but what doesn’t happen.

I wish I could tell you about the time that my son sunk the winning basket in a
championship game, was the crucifer on Easter Sunday at church, serenely sat in a duck blind with his father and grandfather – patiently waiting and eager to
learn, took his high school girlfriend to the Jr./Sr. or secured his first apartment and landed his dream job in a big city.

Every parent has preconceived notions about their children from the moment 
we start dreaming about a family.  
But, perception can sometimes be a far cry from reality.

It’s one thing to envision your child as a gifted athlete and their gift turns out to be the violin.

But parents of addiction know another level of unrealized expectations.
Watching a child with inherent potential being sucked into a vortex, 
right before their eyes.  
Maybe it’s trial and error with alcohol, then a variety of illegal substances and they’re off and running to a point of no return….

Addiction can rob us of their youth.

However, their past doesn’t necessarily predict their future.
(See – All’s Quiet (today) on The Southwestern Front – 4/26/13 )

Families of addiction must practice boundaries, make tough decisions, 
move forward – then, let go.

And … don’t spend too much time looking back.  You’re not going that way …