14 Comments
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Ilona Goanos's avatar

What are you addicted to?

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Prajna O'Hara's avatar

It is a long story, but I would say I was stuck in self-destructive behaviors that resulted after a rape by a member of the staff at the Catholic Church I went to school at and worked for 14

I became alcoholic, addict, and we use anything to numb myself, including awful Men

I began getting clean and sober 21 one I started working with my first therapist and hit a big devastating bottom

Now my addictions are. That might be the worst it gets.

Thank you for the question

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Ilona Goanos's avatar

I'm so sorry that you were raped. How horrible and all the consequences from that. Thanks for sharing so openly and deeply. We need to take away the shame of what happened to us and stand together in power.

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Prajna O'Hara's avatar

Yes exactly 🔥💜💥

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Michele Maize's avatar

Quitting sugar is so hard. I haven't mastered that one yet. Maybe I need a doctor to tell me so, too? I think a little carbs are actually good for us but definitely not the sugar. Good luck. I agree that if you don't have one, you won't keep craving more. It's a vicious cycle!!

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Ilona Goanos's avatar

It is a vicious cycle. When I'm craving a snack, the new me eats popcorn, nuts, or a bowl of berries with whipped cream. Believe it or not, whipped cream has hardly any carbs!

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Prajna O'Hara's avatar

Yes, I have. This is very relatable. I love the line. It grew legs and arms.

I find it hardest one there is stress and I try to spend time doing things that I love like yoga, walks in nature with our dog, saunas, cold plunges…

I just finished a series on Netflix. I do believe I get addicted. I tell myself that I’m relaxing and checking out the busyness, but we’ll see.

Thank you for this verbal and well and formed essay,

Ps I am very familiar with the 12 step steps and used to be a regular for many years.

One moment at a time.

Dam pebbles

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Ilona Goanos's avatar

I love the 12 steps. I think they are essential for everyone. Yes, one moment at a time - a creed to live by.

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mark's avatar

I just read this on November 21, 2023...as well as your piece about supporting others who are suffering, with its references to attending to one's breathing/being in the present moment. Thank you.

Lately, I've had so many experiences of reading or experiencing/hearing/witnessing EXACTLY what I needed to. It's been a cycle of graceful synchronicities...Thanks, again, for sharing your journey and enriching mine. Wishing you love, support, and humor as you move forward.

Love life, live love.

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Ilona Goanos's avatar

It's so beautiful when we can see that everything happens for us, not to us. Thanks for subscribing and I appreciate you becoming a part of our community.

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Kristy Corino's avatar

It would be easier for me to give up alcohol than chocolate. I'm in the "everything in moderation" camp until I hear otherwise! Good for you, Ilona, to give up the good stuff!

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Ilona Goanos's avatar

And moderation is subjective, isn't it? Thanks for chiming in.

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Lazarus NJ's avatar

I tried to give up sugar, but kissing you is the sweetest thing on Earth! - Your hubby :)

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Ilona Goanos's avatar

🤍 🤍 🤍 💋 💋 💋

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