LIVING RENT- FREE IN THE MIND (Post 131)
THURSDAY, JULY 23
Post 131
The CHOICE we can have too!
During the past few months of semi-self- quarantine, I have spent some time reading books not necessarily related to Gambling Recovery Ministries or the IGCCB’s Clergy/Lay Minister Certification. From Jim Crow injustices to the demise of Native American presence on the Great Plains to Watergate, I have adventured through time. One book – an incredible memoir of surviving the Nazi holocaust – actually coincides with professional reads having to do with trauma and recovery. Dr. Edith Eva Eger tells her story of survival in the midst of unthinkable atrocities and the years thereafter. The Choice, authored at age 90 (yes, 90 years of age!) and published in 2017, is an up-front sharing of how Dr. Eger, herself, struggled – and ultimately gained personal peace.
“Embrace the Possible” is The Choice’s sub-title. Within both, this masterpiece speaks clearly – and with grace: when faced with challenge (huge or slight), one has a choice … to strive for the possible, embracing the sought-for goal. Faced with ever present punishment and death, Dr. Eger’s survival was not a blithe mind-over-matter affair. Page after page, she relates the agonies of fear and the victories of overcoming.
An eminent psychologist, Dr. Eger continues her practice in La Jolla, California. What distinguishes her book from many other survival stories is the inclusion of post-holocaust years to the present. In fact, The Choice contains case histories (anonymously described) of trauma victims and how she has worked with them to achieve recovery. The wounded helping the wounded. Gently, lovingly, distinctly, Dr. Eger probes - and faces the reader. We do have that choice too – to embrace the possible!
With an easy internet search for Dr. Edith Eva Eger, you will find her in-person inspiring presentations … and watch for her traditional ending of a high ballerina kick! After all, she was a gymnast and serious ballet student … and was forced to dance for the enjoyment of the death camp’s doctor Josef Mengele, hours following her parents’ deaths.
In closing, here are encouraging words shared by Gam-Anon members (www.gam-anon.org Go to: “Our Voices”). They have had a choice, also … for recovery!
from a parent: I must keep reminding myself that: I did not cause the gambling; I cannot control the gambling; I cannot cure the gambling; I may not be able to change the gambler's behavior, but I certainly have the power to change my own.
from a spouse: I feel so much better about myself. We have learned how to talk to each other and even when not to "say our piece”.
from a child of a gambling parent: After being in program for several years and working on myself all the time, I have learned how to let down the wall I had erected around myself. This barrier of pain and distrust came down very slowly and I truly believe that not only can I be a very warm and caring wife, mother and friend, but I can also receive love. Today, even though there are problems, I honestly feel great about myself and my situation. I finally know how to love and be loved in return.
The choice is yours; the choice is mine … to embrace the possible!
Blessings,
Rev. Janet Jacobs, CCGSO
Founding Director
Gambling Recovery Ministries
855-926-0761
For more information on the IGCCB Clergy/Lay Minister Certification visit:
For more information on gambling disorder and recovery issues, go to:
www.indianaproblemgambling.org