Finding freedom from the destructive impacts of alcoholism, by Brenda Evers

Being aware has long been touted as a key factor in solving alcoholism.  Everyone impacted is counseled to be aware and admit that there is a problem so that they can deal straight forwardly with the mental and physical impacts.

But, is being aware enough? Does focusing on the problem prevent those who are suffering from finding the path to freedom?

In her book on the power of spirituality to heal, Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, Mary Baker Eddy wrote “The drunkard thinks he enjoys drunkenness, and you cannot make the inebriate leave his besottedness, until his physical sense of pleasure yields to a higher sense.” This says to me that, if we are struggling with addiction, we can let go of that purely physical sense when we turn to God and yield to his power and to an innate attraction to good that comes from being His children.

Can this idea of yielding to a “higher sense” help not only someone suffering with addiction but also someone living with them?  It can.

It was powerful in helping a friend of mine find freedom from the effects of living with an alcohol-addicted and abusive father.  Although she and her brothers were aware of the alcohol hidden in bottles around their farm, and the physical and mental abuse they suffered from his actions went on for years, she found a deep sense of forgiveness when she focused on the good things he had done. And, when it came time to tell her own children about their grandfather (he was no longer living) she chose to first tell them about the good he had done.  For example, she told them about an unusual and bold action he took to help her overcome a childhood fear.  It worked, and she was immensely grateful. In recounting it, she saw the thoughtful care for her well being that he had included in planning his solution. 

My friend admits that she, at times, struggled to reconcile what were apparently two sides to her father, but she ultimately came to the conclusion and voiced that “he was a good man”.  That final conclusion – a higher sense of her dad as a child of God - gave her much peace and solace.  

Many of us have seen or been subject to the adverse effects of alcohol abuse. We yearn to help the sufferer and be free of any impact on ourselves and others we love.  One thing we can do - as the alcoholic comes to a solution at his or her own pace - is to try to find that higher sense and see the person as a good man or woman.  It’s a different kind of being aware. It supports the person who is suffering and can free us from any negative impacts.

Brenda, a member of Kate’s blog team, is a writer who loves to learn about and share with readers the connection between spirituality and health. In addition, she is a Christian Science practitioner in Ellicott City, Maryland