Wow! The Orchard on the Brazos forever changed my life. After years of mental abuse, emotional trauma, PTSD, depression, a suicide attempt and alcohol/drug abuse, I now have a new appreciation, perspective, and outlook on life. Today, I live with gratitude, dropped my attitude and realized my ego is not my amigo!
I showed up mentally/spiritually drained, I needed a change. My life had become unmanageable, and 'my way' simply wasn't working for me anymore. I remember thinking of, Brooks from "Shawshank Redemption" writing "get by busy living or get busy dying." My new journey started on 7/1/2020. I remember being scared, not sure if I should trust strangers, opening up Dr.s and counselors, group therapy. I was skeptical; however, I was told to "trust the process" and "take it one day at a time." Immediately, I felt at home and surrounded with love, aww struck by the sheer beauty of the ranch, houses, amenities and staff. This was my first trip to a Recovery Center. In fact; a few of the residents mentioned this is the nicest facility they've been to (one of them had been to 10 facilities across the nation).
The counselors and therapy session helped me unload years of baggage I've been carrying. Bags of guilt, shame, remorse, anger, and confusion weighed me down to the point where I needed Xanax, Sleep aids, alcohol, marijuana, just to function/survive. I realized the only way this is going to work, is if I'm 110% honest and real with myself; otherwise, this would be a waste of time. Plus the Dr.s and counselors could read through any bullshit one tried to get past them. This is what I needed. To get real!! To listen for once and stop getting in the way of myself! Everyday at the Orchard was a learning experience, the group sessions flowed with ease, sometimes emotional but that's where our group came together, empathized, loved, supported, or related to the topic on hand. The staff is amazing, stellar Doctors, greatest technicians, sweetest nurses, speakers, and great chefs who provide a wide variety of excellent food, juices, and a salad bar that competes with Jason's Deli! In fact; the meatloaf, it's so good you'll want it again tomorrow. The property itself is breathtaking. The houses are all completely remodeled with comfortable beds/rooms! Great AC, hardwood floors, beautiful furniture, a real southern rustic touch of Texas.
Today, I live a righteous life. I'm so blessed to be alive, I live with gratitude and a new appreciation for life. For the first time in 20 years I'm living with inner peace. I'm helping others. I'm discovery myself and purpose daily!! If there's one thing I regret... it's that I didn't stay longer!!
Trust the process, take it one day at a time!! Best advice and it was given to me on the first day. read more