Hi Kim and hugs to you for your positive thoughts. It was my full intention to vent some frustrations but realized after reading your post, it's probably better to look for the rainbows rather than dwell on all the garbage.

Anyway, my family (less my addict son) attended my niece's wedding yesterday. She's the family's over-achiever, straight A student, top college graduate and landed a prime job. Needless-to-say, it was a very elegant affair. What had me down in the dumps last night was seeing family & friends with their over-achieving kids, who are now grown and have matured into well-rounded, healthy adults. So there I was asking myself the usual 'why me' questions and making comparisons between them and my AS, whose whereabouts are currently unknown. I was so prepared to throw myself a huge pity-party when I logged on last night during the festivities. But as I read your words I realized there's a lot in my life to be thankful for; a kind and loving husband, my daughter's family and a few family and friends who understand the strain we're dealing with. So bottom line, in the midst of all the addictive chaos that's consumed me for the past 5 years, God, through his mercy, has opened my eyes and I'm just now beginning to recognize how truly blessed my life is.

Cyndee,,, loving your post ,,, of also come to the point where I had looked at other ones that are the same age has my daughter and in a completely different life,,, it's not about the journey, it's where the journey will end,,, yes my addict has caused me pain, heart break, but when I took a step back and look at my daughter, she is beautiful, she may not be where I want her to be,,, but quite frankly it's not up to me,,but I choose to deal with this ugly situation in a positive way,, I will never, allow this addiction to consume my integerity, disposition or my attitude,,,, two ways to look at this ,, either they make it on earth, or they make it in heaven,,

Love your post cardinal, I count my blessings each day. Thanks for reminding us our lives can be positive and peaceful if we choose to.

Lorifla,, your welcome,,, if you ever need a reminde, let me know,,, I've made a commitment to myself,,, that no matter how bad it gets,,, I refuse to let anything, or anyone bring me down,!!

I was made to walk forward , and practice everyday to look up instead of looking down

Each night I say one line to God, Thank you for Today.... My todays are filled with my son being sober, my beautfiul daughter, a husband who is always by my side, and this beautiful support system that is a click away.

yes, thank you kim for your positive thoughts....i tend to look on the negative side (don't want to be always worrying...but honestly it is a battle for me) I too play the victim and want the violins playing for me but that is so counter productive....you inspire me that I don't need to stay in this victim mentality :)