Life experiences help others

By Joe Lassiter

My name is Joe. I am a recovering addict who 3 years ago was homeless, a drunk.
After more than 10 programs and 10 relapses, through hard work and determination, I am grateful to have my life together.

I have become a productive citizen of society, who contributes his time and life experiences towards helping others. I volunteer at a homeless shelter for men. I try to help them turn their lives around and show them a better way. Everyone has issues in life…everyone is different, but no matter what, it’s all about compassion for another human being who is sick and suffering in the world of addiction. It’s about giving back what God gave us, the gift of love.

Everybody has a story, some sadder than others. Helping people who I don’t even know has become the purpose of my life.

When I was an addict and homeless, a caring hand was reached out to me. I finally accepted this help, my pride set aside; humanity became my lifeline, my hope, my calling.

When you see the results of your efforts in helping another human being, it is fulfilling and inspiring.
Nobody, I believe, holds on to despair and deprivation. They are just caught in its grip. But for those who are willing to fight-the-fight; an encouraging word, a ray of hope, genuine concern, can go a long way in helping someone who is struggling and who has finally decided to try another way.