By Eli Settlemire – Interfaith Sanctuary Staff Member

Word on the Street Issue 47, September 2024

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Author’s Note: Eyes and Ears is an insider perspective article piece from a member of Interfaith Sanctuary’s team that has served the community of Boise with Interfaith for over a year. The goal of this section is to raise awareness for homelessness and bring an inside perspective on the life within a homeless shelter, both as an employee, and from the guest’s side of the experience. Any opinions expressed in Eyes and Ears do not necessarily reflect the opinions, ethics and views of Interfaith Sanctuary or any of its employees or partnered affiliates.

At the very beginning of any journey, there is a single step. When followed up correctly, that first step can turn into a second, then a third and before long, you have reached full stride. So too is the recovery process; whether that is recovery from alcohol, illegal substances, prescription drugs, domestic violence, trauma or poor mental health. Over the past year and half with Interfaith, I have seen many crash landings and quiet surrenders to various trappings and traumas that have led many of our guests to our shelter. In the midst of crisis and in the grips of addiction, it may seem like there is little or no hope at all, as though you are drowning within yourself. This internal drowning can continue on and on, even after scraping along rock bottom, sometimes for years upon years until the choice is made to seek help and healing. Many people have described to me these feelings and many have said the same thing in response to their predicament: to confront the things that have consumed their lives. Once that choice is made, to acknowledge that things aren’t alright and that you need help in fighting your personal battle, the first step has already taken place. Going to your first support group is something that can make anyone anxious, but it is critical to not only acknowledge what we need, but to desire change and pursue healing as well. Simply coming to listen and hear from other people who have had similar experiences is valuable in ways that can go unnoticed or unrealized until later. However, with consistency and active engagement with a recovery program, even greater changes can follow. In time and through much effort, your life is your own again and you wonder where the time went, though you are glad to be the captain of your own ship again. When I reflect back on all the people who we have encouraged to enter our programs or that have entered of their own accord that have had success within, I am reminded of the triumph of recovery and how it can work for anyone facing any situation if they are willing. Our community of individuals within our programs, both those conducting and attending are some of the most compassionate, loving and salt of the Earth to be found at Interfaith Sanctuary. The work being done by each and every one involved or enrolled in our programs is deeply inspiring and have made me and many others very proud of them. Recovery is possible and our lives can always be better if we are willing to start a new journey with that first step.