From The Parents
As parents of a son with a drug and alcohol addiction I feel we have some insight into many issues facing many parents and young people.
Brent was extremely smart. When he was young he could master any game I put in front of him. He was always busy and I had to watch to make sure he didn't get into something he should not.
As Brent grew up he loved school. He didn't so much like the schoolwork although he went through most grades effortlessly. He did love the social part of school.
Once he started using drugs at age 13 all that changed. His grades slipped, he skipped school and started hanging out with other young people who were getting into trouble.
Looking back on it all today I was far to lenient on him. I should have kept a closer reign on his activities.
I raised Brent in the church which I feel helped us all. We had God to turn to no matter what trouble Brent was in. I had many sleepless nights up worrying about Brent and praying that he would make it home safe.
My advice to parents is stay involved in your children's lives. Know where they are going and who they are with.
My advice to young people is to choose your friends carefully. You need to be around healthy and happy young people. You also need to find a church that you enjoy going to. There are many churches in every community that you can attend. Many of them have fun nights and also provide transportation.
Remember to hug each other and tell each other "I love you", you never know when it could be the last time.
God bless you
Tim and Barb
