by

Thirty Years a Junkie

Young Andrew Joyce

Young Andrew Joyce

Writing deadlines are looming, and a death in my extended family put Tornado Boy in my care for the weekend. I didn’t have time to pull together a halfway coherent post for today. Yet, somehow the serendipitous universe understood. Andrew Joyce, author of The Swamp, which I posted about 10 days ago, asked me to share this story from his youth. It’s gritty – a story of a man’s life spiraling out of control, and the bravery and determination necessary to fight his way back.

***

Compared to some, I’ve lived an exciting life. At least parts of it were. However, compared to others, my life has been humdrum. The only thing I’m satisfied about is that all the drama took place when I was young and able to handle it. That would not be the reality today for I have grown old.

It’s confession time. I’m not looking for absolution. My only intent is to show some of you out there that there is hope. Nothing is forever. Perhaps my story might help you get to the next stage of your life. Maybe not, but I had help getting there, and I’ll tell you about it in a minute. First, a little background. And please, feel free to judge me. You cannot condemn me any more than I have already condemned myself.

When I was kid, I always had a wanderlust. I would see a freight train sitting on a siding, waiting to go on its way, and I would try to imagine its ultimate destination. Those open boxcars called to me. If I could only get into one of those cars, then I would be transported into a new life. Finally, I would see where the rails ended—that magical place. Then, and only then, would I know the secrets of the road. The secrets of the universe…

Source: Thirty Years a Junkie

75 thoughts on “Thirty Years a Junkie”

  1. Mithai Mumblezz says:
    February 7, 2017 at 11:45 am

    So sorry to hear about your loss, may her soul rest in peace. Sending out lots of love.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
  2. patriciaruthsusan says:
    February 5, 2017 at 3:27 am

    I’m sorry to hear of your loss, Diana. You must have enjoyed having your grandson with you, though. Andrew’s story is amazing. It’s a wonder he survived to write about it. —- Suzanne

    Liked by 1 person

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  3. inesephoto says:
    February 4, 2017 at 10:10 am

    Sorry for your loss, Diana. She must be a good woman. My daughter’s grandmother never bothered to say hello.
    Andrew had a fair share of tests and trials, and I respect the sufferings he has come through. I have read the swamp story, and I thought it was fiction.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
  4. oldpoet56 says:
    February 3, 2017 at 12:43 am

    Reblogged this on Truth Troubles: Why people hate the truths' of the real world.

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  5. reocochran says:
    February 2, 2017 at 7:13 pm

    Oops, meant to say this was a harrowing real life story by Andrew. Always good to know someone makes it to the “other side” and back!

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
  6. reocochran says:
    February 2, 2017 at 7:08 pm

    I am saddened that someone in your family died, Diana. Your Tornado boy drinking cocoa tipped me off, but I was washing clothes and packing up. One weekend but coming back to work, so need to be ready for Sunday night resting up.
    You will get right back to work, once normal routine resumes. 🙂 Peace be with you. ❤

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply
  7. L. T. Garvin, Author says:
    February 1, 2017 at 7:52 pm

    Condolences on the loss of your family member, Diana. Wishing the best for you and your family. Grandchildren are precious!

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
  8. Jacqui Murray says:
    February 1, 2017 at 1:13 pm

    Oh my. I’m so sad for everyone involved. Even after the fact (and because I believe time is fungible, not in a straight line), I wish you best luck in handling these horrid occurrences.

    Liked by 1 person

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    • D. Wallace Peach says:
      February 1, 2017 at 1:50 pm

      Thanks, Jacqui. I didn’t mean to usurp Andrew’s post with the news of the death in my extended family. We are all shifting back into our routines. I also believe time is fungible, yet, Andrews story is certainly a journey! Thanks so much for the visit and comment. 🙂

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  9. Annika Perry says:
    February 1, 2017 at 10:40 am

    Diana, I am very sorry for your loss and you’re in my thoughts.❤️ I hope having your grandson to care for helped a bit, although 20 hours lego can be 15 too many! I read Andrew Joyce’s piece, absolutely incredible life experiences. Read like the best of fiction.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
  10. C.E.Robinson says:
    February 1, 2017 at 9:56 am

    Such sad news, Diana. Sorry for your loss. Your comforting role so important for old & young family members. I’ve read & commented on Andrew’s post. Believe he had a “flock” of angels protecting him along the way. Also his rearranged brain made him into a successful writer. Some drug related stories end well. Good thoughts for you! 🎶 Christine

    Liked by 2 people

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  11. Julie Holmes, author says:
    February 1, 2017 at 4:38 am

    So sorry for your loss, Diana. I always think it’s so interesting when people who have left our immediate family for whatever reason (divorce, widow/er) remain in it despite the lack of actual blood relation. Hope you enjoyed your time with Tornado Boy 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
  12. Bernadette says:
    February 1, 2017 at 4:22 am

    What a comfort children are at a time of grief. So glad you have your grandson with you to help lift your spirits.

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply
  13. Steven Baird says:
    February 1, 2017 at 3:10 am

    So sorry for your loss, Diana. And thank you for sharing this remarkable story.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
  14. Mary J. McCoy-Dressel says:
    January 31, 2017 at 7:47 pm

    And thank you for sharing Andrew’s story.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
  15. Mary J. McCoy-Dressel says:
    January 31, 2017 at 7:46 pm

    Hi, Diana, I’m thinking of you and your family today, and sending condolences for your loss.

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply
  16. anotherfoodieblogger says:
    January 31, 2017 at 5:56 pm

    I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your mother-in-law Diana. I think taking some time to spend with Tornado Boy is a good decision. You know we’ll still be here when you get back AND that we are also here for you for support at any time. xoxo

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
  17. Marietta Rodgers says:
    January 31, 2017 at 1:12 pm

    So sorry for your loss, D.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
  18. Madelyn Griffith-Haynie, MCC, SCAC says:
    January 31, 2017 at 12:27 pm

    I’m so sorry to read about your loss. Even when it is “expected” it is always a shock when it actually happens – and a loss to be grieved. My condolences, especially to the grandchildren – sometimes I think death hits them hardest, since it is often their first experience with it.

    Do what you need to do to take care of yourself and your loved ones — and Tornado Boy, of course.
    xx,
    mgh
    (Madelyn Griffith-Haynie – ADDandSoMuchMore dot com)
    ADD Coach Training Field founder; ADD Coaching co-founder
    “It takes a village to transform a world!”

    PS. Had already read Andrew’s post – INCREDIBLE – and inspiring.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
  19. Lynz Real Cooking says:
    January 31, 2017 at 10:20 am

    So sorry for your loss dear xx

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply
  20. tpolen says:
    January 31, 2017 at 9:45 am

    Very sorry for your loss, Diana.

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply
  21. Dorinda Duclos says:
    January 31, 2017 at 7:43 am

    So sorry for your loss, Diana. You’re in my thoughts and prayers ❤

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply
  22. vanbytheriver says:
    January 31, 2017 at 7:12 am

    His story…left me without words.

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply
  23. boundlessblessingsblog says:
    January 31, 2017 at 6:18 am

    So sorry dear Diana.

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply
  24. Phil Ryan says:
    January 31, 2017 at 6:13 am

    Oh best wishes D. X

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
  25. janmalique says:
    January 31, 2017 at 6:05 am

    So sorry to hear about your loss, you are in my thoughts.

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply
  26. sandrasightseer says:
    January 31, 2017 at 5:55 am

    So sorry for your loss. Our thoughts are with you.

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply
  27. Erik says:
    January 31, 2017 at 5:29 am

    I’m somehow feeling a connection this morning between death, addiction, recovery, having less time … and Tornado Boy. Can I make sense of it? Not so sure.

    That little boy has every BIG choice still ahead of him — a whole life of possibilities yet to unfold. What an important role you are playing in his life — another person to help him understand, by voice and by example, what a good choice looks like, how to be honest when you’re faced with (or make) a bad choice, and how to recover in the short run, while the boat is still aright.

    I’m also aware in this moment of the importance of the little choices we all make in between the big ones, and how much they matter. You’re choosing well today, my friend, giving precedence to family and to Tornado Boy at a time of need, over insisting that a writing schedule be kept.

    It seems the death may be in your in-law-extended family, but my heart goes out to those who are saying goodbye right now. And if it’s been your own loss as well, I’m so sorry.

    Liked by 4 people

    Reply
    • D. Wallace Peach says:
      January 31, 2017 at 7:05 am

      Perceptive, Erik. Yes, my ex-mother in law passed peacefully away. She was a wonderful woman and the matriarch of her family. Tornado Boy doesn’t quite understand it, but we’re chatting while we play with Legos. 🙂 Thanks for your thoughts.

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply
  28. Joanne Sisco says:
    January 31, 2017 at 5:29 am

    My condolences to you and your family. My thoughts are with you xx

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply
  29. Richard Ankers says:
    January 31, 2017 at 5:28 am

    Very sorry for your loss, Diana.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
  30. Marjorie says:
    January 31, 2017 at 5:15 am

    I, too, am sorry to hear of your loss. My prayers are with you and your family.

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply
  31. nonsmokingladybug says:
    January 31, 2017 at 5:06 am

    I am sorry for your loss. I am thinking about you.

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply
    • D. Wallace Peach says:
      January 31, 2017 at 6:57 am

      My ex-mother in law passed away. She was a special woman, and her transition was peaceful. My daughter flew to the funeral to be with her dad’s family, so Tornado Boy stayed here and wore me out. 🙂 Thanks for the thoughts. ❤

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