Randi & Poe:
I cannot even put into a few paragraphs about how strongly I feel for Dignity House and what it has done for me. Words could never explain. I remember when I first came to Dignity House and how scared I was being that it was a new environment for me for I had been born and raised in Ohio and knew nothing besides that. However, I was able to adjust to the change fairly quickly because the atmosphere and energy was so pleasant from the start. It began to feel like my home away from home with the cozy atmosphere and the family energy created by the girls that were present at the house and the both of you. With such a pleasant environment, it allowed me to focus on my recovery from drugs and alcohol much easier.
The treatment center I went to showed me how to put down the drugs and alcohol while Dignity House showed me how to live, function and become part of life without drugs and alcohol. With the structure and ruled in the house I was able to learn responsibility. I learned how to take care of myself. I learned how to be a good employee, daughter, sister and friend by learning how to mend those dear relationships that drugs and alcohol destroyed. I was able to learn how to play with others and form relationships with girls inside and outside the house that I can say are some of the best friendships that I have ever had in my life. I learned ho to manage my money without running a bank account into the ground like I did while using. I learned how to pay bills and make responsible money decisions, which was something that my parents always did for me in the past. I managed to make it through the twelve steps of Alcoholics Anonymous, which has gave me a strong connection with God today, an awareness about myself that I could never have obtained with drugs and alcohol in my life, as well as the ability to help other struggling addicts and alcoholics. I am able to help other women, especially, which is a key aspect to keeping my sobriety.
By the time I moved out of Dignity House and into my own apartment, again something I had never accomplished in the past, I can honestly say that I became a woman that has dignity. My self-esteem and confidence is at one of its highest peaks and I love myself today. I am happy and very blessed and would not possess any of these qualities if I had never followed through with the decision to remain sober. I believe I never would have learned to remain sober if I never made the decision to be part of Dignity House. I am blessed.
Thank you,
Amanda
Randi and Poe
I cannot begin to thank you guys for everything you've done for me. Not only have guys been there for me in my sobriety but you are always going above and beyond to make sure that I am okay emotionally and in all other areas of my life. I have been trying to change my life for awhile now and I'm so thankful that I have two people that care so much for me and are willing to do what it takes to make sure I am okay.
I am so grateful to have you in my life. So again thank you so much for everything you've dome for me. You've really helped make a difference in my life.
I love you,
Kim
Dear Randi,
There are no words to adequately express my gratitude to you for thanking me into Dignity House at what was obviously a very low point in my life. But I know that words - however heartfelt - do not carry the impact of actions. How many times have I sincerely said to loved ones "I'm sorry" after a relapse or false step, only to repeat my self-destructive actions despite the burden of my remorse. Embarrassment, shame and despair have long been the constant companions I have tried to shake off through overachieving or people-pleasing behavior.
But when this leg of my journey began on November 10, I vowed to do things different, to break away from instinctive patterns of behavior that have not served me well in the past. The external results of this process may be imperceptible, but the bottom line is what counts - I am living a sober life since I came to live here.
I don't want to be gushy here (lest you think I am again people-pleasing, or worse sucking up to you), but I do want you to know that my gratitude and admiration of you knows no bounds. I take to heart the messages I hear from you - even when they sting. I am trying to model my actions by the example you have shown. The sacrifice and care you have devoted to making this house so special and assisting all of us achieve sobriety, as well as dignity, are ever-present. I will continue to try with every fiber of my being to go any lengths necessary to lead a sober life. Thank you again for all that you have done for me.
I hope you have a joyous Christmas and that all good things come to you in a sober 2007.
Love,
Mary
