Rewarding is probably the wrong word

But it is rewarding – and certainly positive – to watch people grow in their recovery.

For example – the couple whose adult son has been drinking and using drugs off and on for years.

The son is in his forties. Recently he checked himself into a rehab center in the Midwest.  Now he wants to come home for a visit.  It’s been more than a year since he has seen his parents and married sister in his hometown.

His parents worry.  What will it be like having him in the house again?  Should they hide all the alcohol?  Can they ask about his treatment?  Is he attending AA meetings?  What about his new job?

And on and on and on…

They share their anxieties with others who understand.  At an Al-Anon meeting the people around them have been there, done that.  They learn that it’s best not to ask these questions, or maybe any questions.

Just be.

Let this first visit home be as pleasant as possible   Plan a hike or a visit to see the new nephew.  Enjoy dinner at a favorite restaurant.  Make his favorite foods.  Whatever will bring the family joy.  Something to do together.

A week later, after the visit, the mother and father share again.

The visit went well, they say.  They refrained from asking questions.  The son opened up, a little, and seems to be doing well.  Another visit is planned for holidays later this year.

The parents will keep coming back.

Because it’s what we do.

It’s how we help each other recover from the effects of the disease of addiction.

One visit at a time.