Dear Friends of Freedom Institute...

I'd like to share a story that is sometimes heard in the rooms of recovery and that touches me deeply.

While walking down the road, a man comes upon a butterfly's cocoon. The man stands watching as the butterfly struggles to get free. In the spirit of kindness and compassion, the man begins to cut open the cocoon, hoping the butterfly will effortlessly fly free. But the man then notices that the butterfly's body is swollen and its wings are not fully developed. It is the struggle to work its way out the cocoon that forces necessary fluids into the wings so that the butterfly can fly. The man does not realize that his well-intended actions have interrupted the natural process required to enable the butterfly's body and wings to become fully functional. He has tried to help, but has ended up crippling the butterfly.

Sometimes we need to struggle so that we may gain strength. No one knows this better than those in recovery from their own alcoholism or addiction, or the family members who have learned to stop rescuing and enabling a loved one. The most basic tenet of helping someone who is alcoholic or addicted accept help is that he must not be shielded from negative consequences, but must feel the pain and discomfort his choices cause. The same holds true for the recovery process. Everyone involved needs to do his own work, and will have his own difficulties to overcome.

When times are hard, it's best to rely on what's tried-and-true, to go "back to the basics." Freedom Institute provides solid, responsive and effective treatment services to individuals and families who seek recovery from alcoholism and addiction. Programs and services grow with the changing needs of our clientele, rather than according to the latest trends. We are clear and consistent and focused on our mission.

Over the years, Freedom Institute has helped thousands of people. Our many grateful clients and recovery success stories are proof that Freedom Institute is "tried-and-true." We are here for those who need us, and we are grateful to those who support us.

Warm Regards,

Anita Ronis, LMSW, CASAC
Executive Director