by Ed Ostrom

Created on: January 21, 2011

There are have been many people in my life that have had a great influence upon me. There have been those who have come alongside me and breathed life and encouragement into me. There have been those who have held me accountable, and yes, even disciplined me. There have been those who nurtured my soul, and stretched my mind. There have been friends and mentors who have given me a well applied kick in the seat of the pants to move me beyond the debilitating inertia of mediocrity and became the wind beneath my wings. Because of them I am able to soar in the blues skies of victory. Because of their words of motivation and guidance I can look back on my life and celebrate victories.

I am so thankful for the countless number of people that have shaped and molded my life. There are so many of them that come to mind as I reflect on “the people in my life.” I praise God for each of them.

But , when I first read this article title, my thoughts did not go to those people that I was speaking about above, but rather the wind mills of my mind began revolving and centered on the most important people in my life right now. The clients that I work with.

It is my joy and privilege to work as a Program Worker at the local Detox Center. Here it is our mission to try and help our clients through the effects of withdrawing from drugs and alcohol. So many of their lives have been devastated by the abuse of drugs and alcohol. So many of them have suffered countless loses in their lives. A vast number of them face the flotillas of guilt, shame and depression. And yet, each day as I strive to teach and motivate them, I find them being an encouragement to me.

Seeking to be a “sheltering Tree” to the clients I have the honor of working with I have found my own spirit being warmed and encouraged by them.  As I sit here I recall hearing the sincerity of many clients honestly and sincerely discussing their addiction. They willingly opened up themselves and shared their pain and their sorrow. So many of them have touched my heart. Each day I return home from my work feeling uplifted and encouraged. It is for this reason I have come to feel so strongly that my clients are the most important people in my life right now.

Because of the interaction I have with so many clients my life has been enriched. My heart has been touched, and I find a new wind beneath my wings lifting me to the heights. The clients I worked with make my life worthwhile, and help me to fulfill my life mission which is” In Christ’s name to bring light where there is darkness; hope where there is hopelessness and freedom where there is bondage.”  The clients I work with help me to be the best I can be. I praise God for them. 

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