nEveresting Recovery

by Lawrence (Jay) Long

A Father’s Path Forward: From Recovery to Supporting Other Fathers

Lawrence Long – Spokane

Updated:

Nov 4, 2024 5:08 PM

Seven years can transform a life completely. As I reflect on my journey from 2017 to today, I’m struck by how much can change when you commit fully to personal growth and accept help from others. Today, I want to share my story – not to minimize past actions, but to offer hope to others who might be struggling with similar challenges.

Facing the Past with Honesty

In 2017, I hit bottom. Struggling with addiction, mental health challenges, and a difficult divorce, I made choices that hurt people I cared about and violated court orders. I was not in a good place mentally, emotionally, or physically. The consequences were severe and public, creating ripples that would take years to address.

Building a Foundation for Change

Recovery began with accepting full responsibility and committing to fundamental change. This meant creating a comprehensive support system:

Regular counseling sessions to address underlying issues
Consistent medication management and healthcare compliance
Active participation in Alcoholics Anonymous with sponsor support
Development of healthy coping mechanisms including running, meditation, and journaling
Regular mental health check-ins to maintain wellness

From Student to Teacher

What started as taking parenting classes at Spokane Fatherhood Initiative transformed into something more meaningful. The instructors recognized my dedication and willingness to lead, offering me a position with their non-profit. While I work part-time managing their technology and online curriculum, I spend my remaining hours volunteering daily in their office. This work allows me to continue my personal growth while helping other fathers navigate their own challenges.

The Power of Professional Support

Jen Loree Byrd, an educator with nearly 30 years of experience working with children, shared her observations of my transformation:

“He is sober, not just sober but strong, digging deeper into reasons behind his patterns and practicing myriad strategies for coping and thriving through adversity… Lawrence doesn’t just have the desire, he has the tools now. He’s not going it alone.”

Read Ms. Byrd’s Article

Beyond a Dark Time – Embracing the Growth of Lawrence Long, a Man Who Chose Change

Creating Sustainable Change

My commitment to recovery isn’t just about attending meetings or therapy sessions – it’s about creating a sustainable lifestyle that supports continued growth. This means:

Maintaining a structured daily routine
Avoiding environments and relationships that could compromise sobriety
Regular exercise and meditation practice
Continuing education and professional development
Service to others through my work at SFI

Looking Forward While Acknowledging the Past & Setting the Record Straight

Those who search my name online will find a news article from 2017. While I acknowledge and take full responsibility for the violations of no-contact orders during that difficult period, it’s important to note that some of the article’s more serious allegations were never substantiated or charged.

However, rather than dispute the past, I choose to focus on demonstrating through actions who I am today. The court documents, professional evaluations, and testimonials from the past several years tell this story – one of consistent growth, sustained recovery, and genuine transformation. Multiple professionals, including therapists, counselors, and colleagues, have documented my progress and commitment to positive change over these seven years.

A Message to Others

If you’re facing similar struggles, know that change is possible. It requires:

Complete honesty with yourself and others
Willingness to accept and stick with professional help
Commitment to daily practices that support recovery
Patience with the process of rebuilding trust
Finding ways to turn past struggles into support for others

I continue this journey one day at a time, grateful for the opportunity to make amends through action and to help other fathers maintain healthy relationships with their children.