By HAROLD KELLER

Some of the loneliest people are those that enter treatment centers because of drug addiction. I’m sure most of them, if they are serious about their recovery, are much confused, full of guilt, and afraid of what the future might hold. The sad fact is that most people who seek help will return to their old way of life never enjoying the freedom from their addiction.

A few years ago, a young man who was successful in overcoming his addiction wrote the following while in a treatment center. Maybe it will help someone who is still struggling with a drug problem.

The Squirrel and the Hawk

When I first arrived at Bowling Green, I knew I had a problem. I had no idea how to help myself. I sat down on a bench and watched some squirrels playing beneath the pine trees.

Off in the distance, I saw a hawk sitting patiently on a branch. Like the life I was living, it didn’t mean much to me at the time. I just sat there and cried.

As days went by, I started to learn about myself. Then one day, I saw a squirrel moving on the ground. He had these marks on his shoulders. From being a hunter, all my life, I knew a hawk had grabbed this squirrel and tried to fly off with him. Somehow, this squirrel managed to shake loose and free himself.

It reminded me of myself. Me being addicted, headed for certain death. By the grace of God, I somehow managed to shake myself loose from its grasp.

A few days went by, and I was feeling real sad. I thought I was all alone. I was lying down behind a building asking God why? Just then, the same squirrel with the markings jumped up on the handrail next to me and looked right at me. I know then that was God’s way of telling me I wasn’t alone anymore.

A few days later, out of the corner of my eye, I saw the same hawk flying between some trees about two feet off the ground. This reminded me that my addiction is still out there, patiently waiting. That is one hawk this squirrel will never forget.

HAROLD KELLER writes this column as part of his affiliation with the Get High on Life religious motivational group. Call him at (985) 652-8477 or write to P.O. Drawer U, Reserve, LA 70084.