A Ribbon of Humanity
Jane Ames
Faces of addiction can heal and grow strong again. On September 5th a long human ribbon of various colors and stories wove its way from Oregon over the I-5 bridge to Washington and back again. The news accounts estimated around 1500 people; it sure felt like more from inside that crowd. 
I was honored to be a part of the "Hands Across the Bridge" event sponsored by RAP, Recovery Association Project. (http://www.rap-nw.org). Recovery is possible; clearly it is work. I watched people greet each other with warmth and respect, and was reminded of the importance of support and acknowledging the daily successes in each other's lives.
Addiction is prevalent in our world; I suspect most of us are fairly directly touched by it. Either we struggle with our own addictions, or those in our families, friends, neighbors, or other loved ones. It is pretty indiscriminate. No socio-economic or ethnic group gets a pass, though poverty provides an especially vulnerable niche for various addictions.
My respect goes out to all of you who daily face into your illness with strength and resilience. My husband calls drugs the "experiment of the 60's that failed". Holding hands with a crowd of people all gathered to celebrate freedom from alcohol and drug addictions was a powerful reminder that recovery is possible. Congratulations to RAP for a great celebration.
Posted by Jane Ames on September 11, 2005
(0) Comments | Permalink | TrackBack (0)
Filed Under Events
Comments by site visitors
Post your comment
Please note: your email address, although required to post, will not be visible. We remove inappropriate or offensive content, and content deemed improper by State and City election and ethics law. The comments posted do not necessarily reflect the views of the office or the City of Portland.
