Addictions begin with the casual introduction of a seductively dangerous substance.
It progresses with a cavalier disregard for one’s self, then bottoms out in a desperate pool of emptiness and loneliness. They say the night is darkest just before the dawn, but the only way to have the sunrise again on one’s fortunes is to accept responsibility and take the hard road to redemption.
They may operate under the Cocaine Anonymous (CA) banner, but support is available to anyone who struggles with addiction to any drug or alcohol. By attending their meetings and following the 12 steps, addicts are able to leave negativity behind and reclaim their lives. Having a guiding hand on the road to recovery is vital, and doing so with someone who has successfully overcome their own vice is invaluable. Shaun, whose full identity must remain concealed, works in a position of service for the organisation and freely shares his experiences that ring true with many a member of the community.
“In the depths of my addiction, I lost everything in my life. My family wanted nothing to do with me at the end; they had given up,” revealed Shaun.
Anonymity is absolute as it gives those looking to recover a sense of security that allows them to embrace the liberating power of the free recovery programme. “I got into CA. They said I needed only do the 12 simple steps of CA and my obsession to use will be lifted and my life will improve. They weren’t lying. I have been clean and sober, by the grace of a power greater than myself, for almost two years now. My life is better than it has ever been. I no longer have that empty feeling in my chest that needs filling. I am a productive member of society and I get to help others through this wonderful programme,” he continued.
One of the great powers of the group sessions is the feeling of being welcomed, as well as the sense of acceptance and belonging. This has been curtailed slightly as the coronavirus pandemic has forced the group to migrate onto a digital platform, but with the lowering of the lockdown level a return could be on the cards.
“Everyone is yearning to get back to physical meetings. This is not anybody’s first choice,” Shaun claimed.
One of the benefits of going digital is the potential to reach a wider audience. The online video chat meetings draw attendees from around the world, presenting an opportunity to hear stories of addiction from a multitude of social and economic backgrounds.
Digital meetings can be accessed on the website and are held every day from 7pm to 8pm, with a special Sunday morning meeting starting at 10am. He extends an open invitation to anyone battling substance abuse or alcoholism, and anyone accepting would be greeted with open arms.
“If someone is trying to reach out to us for help, they can call or text our helpline on 063 268 8794; if they are looking for a meeting they can find one on the website at www.ca.org.za“.
His impassioned plea concluded, “I want everyone to know that we’re here and we’re free, and you can be too”.
