I was homeless and hopeless, “urban camping” sixteen years ago in the streets and alleys of Trenton. As I woke up under the bridge where I slept, Christmas day did not mean much. It was cold and raw, but my first task that day was to stop the withdrawal symptoms from alcohol and heroin. I would go to the rescue mission to have a nice, hot meal. I remember that there were gifts for the homeless, and even then I knew enough to pick out one for my little boy, whom I would not see until after the New Year.
Shortly thereafter, I found Freedom House, and finally, after years of “trying” to battle my addiction, I was set on a course that would lead to my personal freedom. I owe the life I have today to the staff and residents of Freedom House. They showed me the way.
I keep the memory of that Christmas sixteen years ago as fresh as possible. I never want to return to that place under the bridge and in the streets. I have sixteen years of sobriety behind me, but I must always remember where I came from, and to be grateful for what I have today.
Fast forward to Christmas 2013. My son was controlling the big spotlight as I did a Magic Show at the annual Freedom House holiday party at the Church of the Holy Spirit in Cokesbury. On Christmas morning, I got to be with the residents and the staff as they opened their gifts. And the greatest of all gifts was this—I was able to share Christmas with my own family opening gifts and having nice meals.
Through my long years of struggle in the past, I know that the holiday spirit was deep down inside of me, but today its IN my life every day. May the new year be filled with joy for us all.
Joe R.
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