PDFIn the Words of Young Adults
Perspective on NorthStar Advancded Recovery Program
“I was standing atop of a very large butte that I had just hiked up with my peer group. All I could think about was how hard it used to be for me to complete my schoolwork, pay my bills and feel any pride in myself. At my lowest, I struggled even finding the motivation to get out of bed in the morning. There I was, seemingly on top of the world. I couldn’t believe how far I had pushed my mind and body. I had come a long way since coming to NorthStar. I hope the next butte is higher in elevation and even a little more steep. It will surely be one hell of a journey.”
-- KF, 22
Walking into the gates of NorthStar is like walking into a third dimension. Rules are different; people are more open to feelings-it is an overall safe environment. The eclectic group of people one becomes close with are friends to remember for a lifetime. Tolerating peers who handle and do things at other levels than you is a task, but one that is very accomplishable. Issues are worked on, dealt with and some even come up that were hidden before hand. It is all a part of the growing progression, which NorthStar helps guide each individual through.
Opportunities are endless as to how far and how successful one could become or go. It is not easy. Classes are long and time consuming, group is strenuous and staff can smother at times. But as bright as the North Star shone in the sky almost 2000 years ago, NorthStar shines just as bright still. That assures me to not skip the limit and NorthStar is the place to help take me there.”
-- EA, 18
The lessons NorthStar provided in the family workshop helped shift in our family dynamics; we're feeling our way on this new path. We're still taking it one day at a time. We have learned to accept relapse of behavior and/or use as part of the process and yet, we trust our daughter will have the tools to do what she needs, just to have faith in her. One year ago, I didn't think I could ever use those words when describing her. It is a rare and invaluable gift.
– BH, parent
Phase I – Phase II
"Coming to NorthStar was a decision I made to further myself. I feel like I have grown into the person I was meant to be. I was born a leader and never knew what that was all about. In Phase One I learned how to interact with a community in a responsible way. It was a good start in what I was supposed to be doing. Once I went through the Truth and Honesty workshop I understood how my peer group worked and where I stood in it. As I moved into Phase Two I learned to handle a busy academic and work load, as well as still maintain my responsibilities at NorthStar. Once again I had the privilege of going through a truly intense workshop called Love Alive! Now has come the time to put into effect what I have learned about living responsibly. But this time I will try it on my own. I feel like this will be a great experience to see what life will be like once I graduate. I know that becoming the responsible person I am today will reflect the way I maintain my apartment and balancing work with classes." - MCL, 19
Journal
“Thank you for helping me on the way to the top. Thank you for believing I could get there and not letting me quit at the first viewpoint.”
Graduation gift
“This necklace is a reminder of NorthStar to me. There are two black and two white beads on it. The black ones remind me of the darkness that I knew before NorthStar. The white ones are a symbol of the light that I found at NorthStar. I came out of my own darkness into the light of my own independence. There are also two black beads with splashes of white in them. Even though there may be darkness in my life sometimes, there is always light and wisdom to be found within. This is something very important to me. There is also a cross on the necklace. This is to remind me of what I stand for, really. I stand for truth, strength, and life!” Graduation Gift to NorthStar
