A Voice for one who has died

A person passes away and is brought before their family, friends, and perhaps even their enemies.  As they lie in repose, finally freed from this terrible addiction, the thoughts of many, if not all, search and wait for an explanation of this person’s soul and what will happen now.

From a perspective of one who ministered with many addictive personalities and saw the results from the power that drugs and alcohol can place within another human being, the means to explain are not so easy, but the moments spent in care can be described as a lesson in love.

Spending time as a fifth-step confidant from one entire group can be humbling, especially when not being addicted like those who chose me.  Working with a whole house of women in early recovery as their chaplain taught me things I never dreamt existed with addiction.  After working as a minister with addictive persons, and living and caring for an addictive step-son, I have discovered one common trait among all of them.  They are searching for the same entity but most are not aware of what its called.  It isn’t the needle they’ll do anything to get, nor is it the bottle they will find and hide after its drained.  Its something we all have deep in our soul and when each of us recognizes its presence we should give praise and glory to God.  It’s called LOVE!  Not just a word but an essence that was placed within us to seek and find and cherish with all our heart.  

Perhaps those who are looking for love without knowing that is what they really desire can attest to the fact that without it they will continue to search until at some positive point they find it before the needle or bottle brings about a disastrous end. 

Some may not be aware of this precious commodity God has placed in our souls, but love is the most precious gift humans have received.  Love is of God and God is love. (see 1 Jn. 3-1).   

Today, this persons remains are all we have to remember.  Do not mourn with disdain or cower over their life.  The love they sought their soul has found.  The important acceptance they needed now completes their journey.   We may become that voice they wanted but did not know how to express it.

Ralph B. Hathaway August 2019