Thank you to my Facebook friend, D. J. Burr for sharing his story.
H.O.P.E. Hold on, Pain Ends. I have this message tattooed on my wrist. I see it every time I am struggling with something difficult. I tend to clasp my hands together when I am stressed. I used to wring them like that was going to solve my conflicts. Now, I gently hold them together and I tell myself to hold on.
Pain is inevitable—it is a part of life. We all will have pain in our lives as we progress, but one thing we do not have to have is suffering. I have learned that suffering is optional. I am grateful to know that now. In recovery, I get to make choices that can end my suffering like praying, calling a friend, or getting to a recovery meeting.
I no longer have to fret about the pain I am experiencing in that moment. I know that my Higher Power has me exactly where I need to be. There is a lesson to be learned in pain. I am constantly open to learning more about myself and others. The pain is worth the gain. Darrett “D.J.” Burr, LMHC, NCC, S-PSB
D. J. Burr is a psychotherapist, specialist in problematic sexual behavior, clinical supervisor, recovery advocate, and author of, I Just Wanted Love: Recovery of a Codependent, Sex and Love Addict. To learn more about D.J. check out his websites below.
