I've enjoyed your site tremendously. Kudos to a job well done. I'm a one-man-band in my career also and would like to have a web site but, I know the time demands would be significant. It just hasn't become enough of a priority in my life yet.
I first found your site while continuing to practice the 11th step in my 12 step program. It's been very helpful. Like you, I have a hard time quieting "the committee" as I like to call the 3 ring circus of my thoughts. Your approach to meditation has been most helpful.
Reading your response to the marijuana smoking email in the "Dear Dr. Stanley" section, I was impressed by the way you fielded those questions. Although marijuana use was not the crutch that lead me to my 12 step program, I recognize the rationalization and justification ploy used my the writer in that email. Your response also looked familiar to me - a straight forward answer that didn't coddle yet came from a truly loving aim to be helpful.
After reading your replies and noticing the links you have posted to recovery sites, I can't help but wonder if you have had some first hand experience in recovery.
My experience in seeing others such as you that have dedicated their lives to helping others is many times a result of 12 step programs and practicing the 12th step.
There are some people that seem to just have a "built-in program" but it's less common then the ones that have lived the experience. I wouldn't want to break your anonymity if my observations were correct. But I just wanted to say WTG girl!
I'll be traveling through St. Louis about the end of June this year on vacation. I would really enjoy attending a speaking engagement if you have anything planned in the St. Louis area toward the end of June.
Trudging,
-Northern Anonymous
Dear Trudging:
Thank you for the e-mail and the kind words. Also, I'm very happy to help.
Regarding your observations, I have to say they are incorrect. I have not had any personal experience with alcoholism or drug-related problems. Taken further, neither with family or friends. My knowledge and experience is purely professional and in a clinical setting with these types of issues.
I am glad to know that my feedback rings a few bells out there in Cyberland. I tend to call the shots exactly as I see them with regard to any spiritual, physical, chemical or emotional situation that my patients or clients may have.
As far as Life is concerned, I do believe that we all dealt a hand that will challenge us to rise up and become better human beings and build our character. It just looks different for each of us.
If an opportunity arises for a speaking engagement in the St. Louis area when you are in town, I will be sure to let you know. Typically, my work takes me beyond the Missouri borders and I rarely speak in this area. Why that is . . . only the Universe knows. (smiles)
**This web site's goal is to provide you with information that may be useful in attaining optimal health. Nothing in it is meant as a prescription or as medical advice. You should check with your physician before implementing any changes in your exercise or lifestyle habits, especially if you have physical problems or are taking medications of any kind.
Hello Dr. Standley: (Alcohol Recovery)
Dear Trudging: