TO HELL AND BACK.....

While an entire nation commemorates its independence from colonial rule,a small section of people celebrates liberation of a very different kind,their freedom from the dangerous obsession of drugs.
Four birthdays.Celebrations.No,it had nothing to do with the age of any member.For the 30-odd members who had gathered in the dimly-lit room one balmy evening,it was a celebration of a very different kind.The birthday signified the date on which each one had gained freedom from drug addiction.And now,they were celebrating their independence by sharing their experiences with fellow addicts...
I met Shabana.She said and i quote,'I had a painful childhood.Grew up hating everything about my life.Religion,society,parents,i wanted freedom from all as i felt they had all contributed to making my childhood a miserable affair.I turned to drugs,it provided me instant relief.But eventually drugs became a huge dependence.All i cared for were my doses and anyone who tried to stop me became a hindrance i wanted to get rid of.My relationships ended,friends didn't want me,my parents felt i was the biggest blot on their reputation,my seven year old relationship fell apart,i lost my job.I was penniless and in the worst possible health.Then i wondered,if i died,no one would even know about it,my body would rot and nobody would care.That was the moment i decided to quit.it was not easy,a lonely,long fight..Today,i am happy,to be alive,breathing,living life.The blue skies and the green grass makes me happy.I have new friends and my old pals are back..\"
As the evening progressed i get to know many more stirring accounts of ex-addicts who have been to ''HELL AND BACK''. Guess all one needs is the 'resolve to quit'.
I conclude with a quote by Buddha, \"It is better to conquer yourself than to win a thousand battles. Then the victory is yours. It cannot be taken from you, not by angels or by demons, heaven or hell