Class of 2004-2005 - Student Graduation Reflections

Joni L.L.

Just wanted to let you know, God. You were right. I remember that first night of class. I argued with You about going back to school. I planned on sitting in the back row and putting my way through all the classes. Then I met Donna. She nourished my intellect and role-modeled integrity. That night on my way home, I couldn’t stop grinning. I felt a new kind of excitement. You continued to bless me with genuine, authentic instructors and classmates. You kept encouraging me to take the knowledge and apply it. While I was taking Group Leadership with Michael Ann, You gave me a new perspective about who I am in relation to this world. I left that class a different person. Don “T” work up my Red Dog and now my Blue Dog teaches other addicts about triggers and warning signs. Phillip showed me a side of compassion I had never seen, one with boundaries. And Curtis pointed to the work to be done. You knew all of this would help me become the person You wanted me to be. But, God, just so everyone knows, may You always be glorified and keep me on my knees.

Marianne E.

My mission in life is to help others, and to bring hope to those still struggling with their addictions, and the surrounding issues. I offer the necessary tools to break down the walls of addiction that otherwise bind and hinder any growth. God gave me the gift of human compassion, and understanding, with each moment that passes, I try to let my light shine. It warms my heart when a client, or even one of my children tells me that my smile makes their day. I make a point of being kind in word and deed.

Who I am makes a difference to those that I serve in life, no matter how large or small the task is. I am a valued employee, counselor, student, mother, daughter, sister, and friend.

Because of who I am, no person should ever have to walk alone.

Sonya B.

Because on a daily basis I remember where I came from, who I am makes a difference. I compare that existence to where I am today and I am filled with joy and gratitude. Often I have thoughts of how I was introduced to the world of mood and mind-altering chemicals and how I became addicted and where the addiction took me. The thoughts are painful, confusing, and sad. However, those emotions kept me safe because I don’t want to live like that anymore.

Through recovery and education, who I am makes a difference in so many ways. I am so grateful to be alive, well, competent, educated, sure of myself, assertive, a great parent, youthful, great looking, goal-oriented and an Alumni of the program that I now work for. I am also very serious about what I do and giving back to the population in the very environment that I almost died in. Moreover, who I am makes a difference because I never put myself above the clientele I serve. Empathy is my foundation, I am that individual that has lost all hope, friends, family, husband, housing and so on. My life’s experiences multiply my devotion to my clients.

Who I am makes a difference because I am living proof that recover is real and moves lives. Last, but not least, who I am makes a difference because of the Addiction Studies Instructors that have changed my life, my way of thinking and my intellect forever. The love, trust and friendships that I have experienced at DVC will be part of me forever. My time at DVC has been so valuable.

I will close this letter by thanking DR. Philip Colgan, Ms. Donna Wapner and Mr. Curtis Christy because each of them helped me grow into a strong and confident person. Thank you all for teaching me how to make a difference, In my own may, I love you all, including my peers.