Just Sharing!

It's amazing to me how time just flies when you get "busy", and that said, it's been way too long since I posted something here. Well, I just wanted to share something, so here's my column from this month's H2H Ezine's 1yr. anniversary issue. Enjoy!!
EMPOWERMENT
Q: What comes to mind when you hear the word "Empowerment" and how does it tie into your life as a LCDC? How do you feel when you give back through your practice? Describe what happens when you see those you served as clients out and about doing well and the things they express to you.
A: This question is one that gives me great joy to answer, because it really plays an integral part in my life as an LCDC. Let me explain. When I hear the word empowerment, I immediately think of God because He is the One that empowers me to be effective in my work and in my life. You see, being an LCDC is not just about doing a job; it’s about living a lifestyle that represents that empowerment to those I serve and whose lives I touch. Without the feeling and knowledge of being empowered, I could not efficiently deliver the services that I am called to provide. That feeling comes from without and most importantly, from within. I believe, without a doubt, that I am in this profession because it is my purpose, and that God has empowered me with the skills to be successful.
When I give back through my practice, the feeling is one that defies description. It is a fulfillment that I know I could not obtain from anything else. To be blessed to witness someone come out of the dark into the light, is a privilege that can only be granted by a Higher Power. It is very similar, I suppose, to a physician witnessing a patient overcome a life-threatening disease or illness; in fact, that is exactly what takes place. The disease is addiction, and it is mental, emotional, physical and spiritual in nature; which consumes the entire being of an individual. Giving back what was so freely given to me is as much a gift for me as it is for those who receive it.
When I see those I have been blessed to serve as clients doing well, that is what I call THE BIG PAY-OFF. Seeing the work that I do manifest itself as a factor in someone changing their lives for the better is priceless. There is not any amount of monetary value that can be placed on what happens when I see that miracle, and I am always in such awe when I think about the fact that God uses me to help perform it. I see and hear from former clients all the time, some have maintained, some have faltered and recovered. But the main thing is that they still keep in touch with me and let me know how they are doing. One of the most critical aspects of maintaining any major life change is support, and I always let clients know that my support of them is ongoing just like their recovery. I have a former client who texts me a daily meditation every morning, another who recently faltered and recovered, and still another who has gone on to fulfill his dream in life. In my eyes they are all doing well, because they are doing the best they can do. They always express tons to gratitude and say that if it had not been for me they would not be where they are. I politely thank them, and then direct them to give all the praise and thanks to God. I thank God every day for allowing me the privilege of helping others to become healthier, more productive people, and pray that I will be empowered to do so for many years to come.