Drugs are such a big problem in today’s society. They affect everyone, even those you would least expect. They affect your family, your siblings, parents, aunts, and uncles. Drugs affect even the strongest of people. They pull you in, take control of your life, and it’s not only scary for those who are addicted, but also for those around them.
For those of you who are close to someone that is affected by a drug, then you know how tough and extremely dividing it can be. Those affected can’t control their actions. Their mind is altered, they can’t make the right decisions, and once they’re addicted, they can’t stop. They make mistakes, they hurt people around them, and all the while, they don’t always realize it.
You may feel an urge of hatred towards someone who is addicted. That is perfectly normal. But, do you hate them, or the drug affecting them?
There’s a fine line between the two. You may think you hate them for everything they’ve done to you, your family or those around you. They may have caused you pain and suffering, but you have to realize, they’re not who they are when they’re under the influence of drugs or alcohol. The drug itself is to blame. If it wasn’t for heroin, cocaine, or any other hazardous substance, your family member, your friend, they would still be the same loving person they once were. You wouldn’t look at them anymore and wonder, “Who is this person?”
Let them know how you feel, let them further understand, show them the damage that has not only been done to you, but to themselves. They need to know how much their actions affect you too. But you also need to realize that they need help, and hating them won’t get anyone anywhere. Show them that you care, show them that no matter what, you will be there for them.
If you know someone who is an addict, don’t hate them for their actions. Learn to let go and forgive. It’s not always right to hate the person, but it is perfectly okay to hate the drug, to hate their actions while they’re no longer themselves. So remember how the person was before they became an addict. Know that that same person is there still, deep down, and they know it too. They’re fighting desperately right along with you.
