Recovery and Integration

During recovery counseling, we often encourage clients to separate the bad things they do from themselves. We talk of "the addiction" or "the urge to steal" or whatever it is. And as the client regains balance, "the addiction" loses power and shrinks. And at some point, we encourage integration once again, the recognition that "the addiction" is within them and part of them. Eventually they can use that knowledge to be stronger and to be just exactly who they are.

This poem was written by a client in recovery with 12 steps, who was recently baptized, and who attends church and small groups regularly. This poem is about his "shadow self"--a dark part of himself that has driven the self-destructive behavior in his live for many years. He writes about what the shadow-self wants in order to gain power over if and to be free from it. While it's dark, look at the consequences of knowing this! With knowledge and submission and humility, this client is free from sin and free to follow Christ! 

As you read this dark poem, remember that is is written in first person from the perspective of the thing within that wants to harm. The words of "the shadow" are full of desperate lies, hoping to gain control of what is not rightfully his. This client is free! And he knows the words are untrue! May it be so for all who seek recovery.

Shadow Mission

The thief in the night that stole my life

in an enemy's grip that chokes the light.

Bending the soul, he buried the knife.

The blackness came in a bloody fight.

He said, "Here are the tools. Take what you want

from family and friends. Then you can flaunt

an arrogance that will make them blush,

while they speak of you in a quiet hush.

You don't need them. You just need me.

No need to love touch and see.

How quickly and quietly their hearts will flee.

No need for salvation, a lord and savior.

You can run around in bad behavior.

The illusion of freedom I give to you

until I take everything, even your shoes.

Walk around the world your head stuck in glue.

Reach out for anyone, and no one is there.

The embrace of your loved ones becomes a blank stare.

Your hands always dirty with knots in your hair.

You've given up everything, the ability to care.

A cage in a cage with a side order of chains.

You hold me, your enemy, as I blow out your brains.

No keys can free you, I made you a slave.

Your only serenity becomes an unmarked grave.

You live as a coward, and envy the brave.

Your mine for eternity , unable to save.

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