Today we’re sharing the story of one of our staff members, who like most of our clients, has walked an inspiring road toward recovery.
My time at Muse has been a personal journey as well as a professional one. I feel like I’ve grown up around here along with all of you. I’ve learned responsibility, accountability and how to show up for those I care about. I’ve met some of my best friends working here and I’ve brought people I care for into this company as employees and also as clients. I believe in what we do.
My story isn’t any different than most other alcoholics. I used drugs to numb my physical and emotional pain and wound up with a habit. I did the same thing most of us do – went to treatment, left and went back again. I did this for three years before I surrendered. I stayed in treatment and in sober living for as long as I could.
I started at Muse (formerly A New Start Treatment and Recovery) with 18 months sober. Back then Lucerne was just a structured sober living and we had an intensive outpatient program on Venice. I had big plans to save everyone. After all, I wanted to give back what was given to me. Muse is an entirely different program now and I’m grateful to have been here to help it transform.
Over the years I’ve learned a few things. The most important thing was that I couldn’t want sobriety for people that didn’t want it for themselves. I also learned that I could be inspired from people just coming through the front door.
My favorite thing about working in treatment is watching the light go on in someone’s eyes and to see the hope come back. I wish that for all of you. My hope is that you fight for your lives the way you should. You are worth it. You all have something special to give. If it’s too soon and you are too new, let us show you how to love again.
I am a firm believer that people need to do what works for them. For me, it was the steps and the amends process that made me whole again. I do my best to continue to keep my side of the street clean. Let me tell you, it isn’t always easy. The problem is if I act out especially in dishonesty I don’t know what will happen next. I live in healthy fear. I live in the principles of AA.
If you have learned anything at all during your stay at Muse it should be that we are family. If we can’t help you, we will find someone who can. You will leave us with a plan. It is your responsibility to follow it. We love each and every one of you that walk through the door.
I want to thank all of the alumni for teaching us new things. Every day is a learning experience for the staff as well as all of you. Thank you for helping shape what we are today.
Nicole L.
Substance Abuse Professional
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