He's a new Maineworks employee. I knew I recognized him but I had never photographed him.

 
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Dear Anonymous,
He's a new Maineworks employee.
I knew I recognized him but I had never photographed him. He walks over to me before the MaineWorks Circle and reminds me. There it is. I remember. I know him from the streets. My worlds intersect.
He thanks me, and in doing so thanks Dear Anonymous.

'You kept me alive. I was going to kill myself. Had a plan. But you'd give me a coffee card. Say good morning. I'd sit and have coffee and change my plan. Most mornings that's what made the difference...
I knew I was gonna die if I didn't climb out. I called a friend; got connected to a sober house and got some help with the first month rent which I didn't have. Then they recommended employment at MaineWorks and here I am.'

And he is. He looks great. If not tender and aware that he got out by the skin of his teeth and that his path is tremulous and vulnerable. But he did it. Against all odds. I ask him over and over, 'How did you do it?' How did you find the energy and resources to leap off the street with heroin and alcohol snarling like mad dogs at your heels? It's so difficult.

Ever wonder if a coffee card can save a life? Wonder no more.
Thank you Dear Anonymous.

When asked 'What do YOU do to keep the Wild Beast of Addiction away from you?' the answers fell like a litany of graces

 
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When asked 'What do YOU do to keep the Wild Beast of Addiction away from you?' the answers fell like a litany of graces: They included:
I pray.
I exercise...and pray.
I go to counseling.
I attend NA and AA Meetings.
I read.
I find people to talk to.
I appreciate what I have and remember what it was like NOT having that.
I stay busy.
I make myself stay positive.
I come to this circle.

Keep. Coming.Back.