In May of 2009 my life spiraled downward to a point where I was depressed, full of self pity and of very little use to my fellow man. As a result of these negative emotions I used drugs and alcohol to find release from care, boredom, and worry. There was always one more attempt, and one more failure. I needed help.

Fortunately, family and friends saw my despair and intervened. It was strongly suggested by my fellows that I was suffering from chronic depression and spiritual bankruptcy, which would required drastic measures to correct. A 12-Step program of recovery and treatment for drug and alcohol addiction was recommended to me, and I began to change my priorities to treat these symptoms.

I followed the advice of AA and NA members by attending 12-Step meetings in my local community and at the same time actively inquired about treatment centers that could help me build a solid foundation of mental health.

While attending a NA meeting in Atlanta, GA, I met a man visiting our group named Morris G. He was the chairperson for a North Georgia CA meeting at a recognized treatment center in Ellijay, called Isaiah House. Morris explained to me what the Isaiah House had to offer and I felt as though this would be right for me. Morris gave me the number and I took action by making contact with the Program Directors, Ed and Sally Jeffery to set up an interview to apply for residency.

When I arrived in Ellijay and saw the Isaiah House for the first time my hopes began to rise. It was beautiful and as I entered this facility my first impression was that this was a safe, wholesome and well organized operation. I parked my vehicle and approached the main dwelling where I was greeted by the current residents and invited in. As I walked through the front door I felt peace and serenity. I had been led to the right place.

My interview with the Director, Ed Jeffery, only verified this. Our dialogue was forthright and solution oriented. Mr. Jeffery analyzed my condition and approved my request for residency. He explained that the primary focus of the Isaiah House is to heal the spiritually sick, provide a safe and loving living environment, perform specialized counseling and offer men of all backgrounds to re-integrate into their community as responsible citizens. Shortly after our meeting I moved in.

I felt better upon entering the Isaiah House Program, but still had much fear and confusion in my life…Ed and Sally Jeffery and the Isaiah House residents helped me straighten this out. They helped me to understand that if I did not keep a program of recovery first in my life, I would relapse into active addiction again and lose whatever I put ahead of it. My new friends assured me that the Isaiah House would take care of my needs such as food, clothing, shelter, counseling and spiritual guidance, but I would have to do the footwork. “God can move mountains, but I need to bring my shovel.”

Through the vast network and resources linked to the Isaiah House I met a spiritual counselor, obtained stable employment, formed healthy friendships and built a solid foundation or recovery. I had the opportunity to perform services to my fellow man, the Christian Church, and the Program of Alcoholics Anonymous. I went to Christian Concerts and gatherings. My family relations healed, health and legal problems were solved and important bills got paid. My life became manageable thanks to the stability, wisdom, and guidance offered by the Isaiah House Program.

My term of residency lasted six months and when I graduated from the Program with the blessing of Ed and Sally Jeffery, I had a fundamental relationship with God as I understand him, the respect of my peers and basic trust of the community. All my needs were met.

That was over a year ago and it just keeps getting better as I follow the basic simple rules I learned early on. I have learned to love my neighbor as myself, seek Gods will over mine and help others unconditionally.

The Isaiah House, recovery starts here, and for that, I give thanks.

Chris Wright January 16, 2011