Adam is my sponsor and best friend. I went from Oklahoma ti California for treatment. Meeting this guy changed my life.. He is one of the best humans ive ever met. He had a heart of gold and he helps so many ppl....
I can see why you say this about Adam. From the get go of this interview there is a sense of integrity and honesty that drew me in. Thank you for your comment🙏
I got the sense that I was listening to a genuine human being, who was grateful for another chance in living and ready to serve and help the weak/lost. I wish you the best in all you do, Adam. Warm greetings from the Netherlands.
This guy impressed me more than any of your other interviews I've watched. A strong, sensitive, honest man, after going through hell. All the best to him.
@@couchprincess698 It's not unusual for victims to become the victimizers later on. I'll give credit to anybody who is willing to work through their personal damage and regain their sense of decency and moral compass again. "Making amends to those you've harmed" is part of any 12 step program. Do you not believe that people can redeem themselves?
Interesting that after watching endless videos on this channel one thing that they all have in common is a broken childhood and or family. Shows how important is too look after our children for a better life and world.
It’s all about reassurance, reminds me of these Jordan Peterson clips where he has tears explaining how little encouragement can completely switch a person’s trajectory, how important it is to be aware of your potential and have some guidance in key moments.
Here is someone who simply wanted to share his story. He was asked 1 simple question and his whole story just unraveled without hesitation. Sometimes people just want to be heard
He has told this story thousands and thousands of times. These are all rehashed and rehearsed thoughts. I think it's good for some people but I personally couldn't imagine talking about myself for an hour... especially if I had the exact story. Happy for the guy tho.
Some parents have no idea how damaging it is to speak badly about each other to their children. A divorce is difficult enough on children. Make children a priority.
Something I was guilty of in the past and something I'm trying to help my girlfriend understand. I also saw my son deal with his mom talk so much $hit about me and then tell him "You're just like your dad!" Now we both support each other's parenting and things are easier
"Gratitude is an action word and I am a firm believer in 'What am I doing today to show those around me that I am grateful'?" LOVE THIS! Thank you brilliant interview .
Stay strong tony.. you got this Mayne. I too have been struggling with my sobriety. I'm only 18 mo clean off a 24 year opiate addiction. I'm only 37... I spent my whole life chasing that H. Now I'm socially crippled from years of being mean to everyone.. I feel horrible, I see now how fukd up I was.
@@philinn4788 I agree with you excellent advice for everyone. 👍🏼men are very important, Phil, I appreciate men and am thankful for their complementarity.
Me and this guy so simmilar,Both battle this heroin demon, had great childhood,raced motocross and cross country, thenhighschool and bad influence and my dad dieing,mt aunt and grandmom(2 from cancer), the 3 most influential people in my life and ....here we are. Got married 6 years ago and just now trying to get clean....pray for me people!
This man took us through the entire "heros journey" in 45 mins. What a redemption story. We will never meet, but I wish you all the best my friend...I am happy we are alive at the same time.
Mark, I really like that you're doing interviews of people that have overcome, for this day, their addictions and other problems. It's really encouraging. And to see the depth of hell, only to overcome and reach back to help those who're going through similar struggles - it's gratifying.
Adam, I am a registered substance-use disorder counselor working my way to being certified like you. I currently teach at a DUI program in Carson, CA and run the office, and have become a project lead for the newly opened DUI MAT program to help identify opiate use disorders and substance use disorders for DUI clients. You are doing God’s work. And God has blessed you with a new life in sobriety. Keep up the good work hopefully we will cross paths one day in the treatment world, now from the other side of the desk helping others.
You remind me so much of my man who died in my arms in 2018 from an od. And I couldn't wait for the cops & emt's & everyone to leave after he was pronounced & they took him away so I could pull my plate back out & get high.....still when I think about that I can't believe that was my focus after he was gone....I was destroyed. I got sober after. My mom has been fighting ovarian cancer for years now along with diabetes & Parkinson's & she's like a cat with 9 lives. God (whoever, you see him or her or what to be) has blessed you with a second chance at life. Good for you Adam. You deserve it! It's so weird, you even sound like him, mannerisms & everything!! You ar the kind of person people want to help & see doing well & Now you are that beacon for others - so more power to you my friend. Be Well Adam.
Almost made it through this whole interview without a tear until you talked about your son.You may have messed up a lot in your younger years Adam but you did a great job with picking the woman who had your child.She took him away from danger,let you handle yourself but the moment she caught wind that you were actually doing good and trying to get clean she was ringing you up offering to put your baby back in your life,I applaud her big time for that,that’s a good mother.And you turning your life around,no matter how long it took you did it..your little boy was coming real close to growing up without a father and now he’s living with you and having you in his life daily makes me so unbelievably happy.Praying for your guys future to continue being happy.
Adam it is no surprise to me that you were able to turn things around for yourself and help others as well, I can see you're humility and humanity in this video. You have managed to uncover it after so much chaos, it is so impressive. Thank you for telling your story! I wish you the best.
I love when Mark just lets his interviewees talk. I teared up when he talked about seeing his son after years. Adam is just so amazing. I wish you continued success.
Part of his grief is not understanding what death really is. It's not what we are lead to believe. Death is only the beginning. That person is not gone forever, you just won't see them for a long while until you die and cross to the other side. I don't speak that out of ignorance but factual knowledge. I know of a guy that had a near death experience and you don't just fade to black. GOD exists, and so do your loved ones who have gone before you. They are just in another plane of existence, but still their soul lives on....
@@GODInTheWax444 I couldn’t agree more there is much to this life after this body is done this is not my first merry go round we’ve all done this before the question is did you learn something with a little bit of luck once you’ve learned enough maybe you won’t have to come back anymore if it wasn’t for my dogs I would’ve already met my maker I know all about it at least from my perspective my wife my brother my mother they’re all with me we’re all part of the same spark the question is are you gonna let them put it out
@@GODInTheWax444 exactly, I had a spiritual awakening when I turned off my sons life support. The unconditional love that I felt lasted for months and sent me on a hunt to find where my son was going. We are eternal. Love and light to you
Maybe we should stop selling NARCAN. If we keep using it on OD ing . If we keep bringing them back to life they continue to use drugs . Stop NARCAN. Decrease drug usage. Natural selection.
Thankful this morning to see a story of a person who has overcome the pain and the challenges that come with drugs. I pray that his life of gratitude and peace will continue and that he will be able to help and be the right person that helps many people in their recovery. They can’t make a recovery without this kind of person to support them through the process
Wow, this was hands down the best interview I’ve seen! Very impressive and so happy he made it to the other side and out there helping others! Your Mom would be so proud! 🥰♥️
Adam's story is riveting. A truly happy ending - he has his son and is engaged. He is helping others now. I am glad he is a survivor. It's a tough world out there for so many.
I tested up when he said he’s a substance abuse counselor, bc he really is using his experience to try and help others have a better life & he’s affecting so many people in a positive way.. listening to him makes me feel so hopeful, it makes me feel like I can use everything I’ve been through to help others too. I forget a lot of the time that that’s the purpose, but this brought it back to the front of my mind.
Good luck with your recovery, you are worth it. Life is not easy, most people have stories but be gentle on yourself, love yourself, acknowledge your pain and hurt and have no fear. You are here for a reason! God bless you and have a beautiful day.
Getting off of dope is rough, and then my nerves would be a wreck, and I would somehow convince myself to just do oxys like every few days, until I was back to being strung out on dope all over again soon after. Over, and over, and over again. This happened so many times I lost count. You have to stay away from all of it if you want to stop. Out of sight, out of mind. And stay away from users. I wanted to stay being everyone’s friend too, but birds of a feather flock together. Keep your distance from all of it. I wish you luck 🙏🏻
The path is rarely straight and relapsing is a part of recovery. I struggled with heroin addiction as well and lost count on how many times I've relapsed. Just as Scott Jackson I thought I could just do it every now. Rewarding myself. It doesn't work and eventually you'll end up where you were. Take all the help you can get, keep your mind busy and distracted. I wish you the best and that you'll get off the pill as soon as possible. Stay safe!
During this interview I was thinking how well he was telling his story and that he would be perfect to help others. At the 38:32 mark I was elated when he said he was a counselor and went on to say how he is helping others. Thank you Adam.
So many people don't make it through addiction and get sober. I've battled addiction for over 20 years and I've lost both of my legs below the knees and my hearing except for 18 percent in my left ear and my vision in my left eye from using needles and I've been sober now for about 5 years and currently in a Suboxone program. In the past few years I've lost about 10 friends from addiction. Hat's off to you sir for making it through such a deadly cycle ❤. The most important part of beating addiction and getting sober is you have to want it because I don't care how good of a treatment program and rehab your in if you're not sick and tired of that life and truly to the point of wanting to change it will never happen and so so many people never get a chance to make it that far.😢
@@riceflatpicking4954 well I've talked to my Dr about tapering off of Suboxone because I don't feel like I need it anymore but Dr doesn't agree with me she thinks i might need to stay on Suboxone for the rest of my life. There's days when I disagree with her and then I have days when I believe she might be right so yeah that's where I'm at right now anyways.
Congratulations Adam I hope this comment will find you im a total stranger we don’t know each other in any way at all but I tap into this channel every now and then and some stories energize me and make me feel good and some make my head hang low and crush my heart,I’m so proud of you for finally finding an exit from the chains you had slowly built around your self,the power of choices at times we don’t even understand, one choice can effect so many things so many people,at times good and sometimes bad,now you can see how each has its reward,sometimes we have so much hurt we add more rather than heal the wounds we infect ourselves even more our lives become a cesspool of depravity and total depression on levels we can’t even imagine. You have won a second chance at life with perseverance and self determination and I hope your story has the magic and energy or blessing to pull others out of the furnace of afflictions they have welcomed.please continue the good work continue all your goal building stay welded to your son stay welded to sobriety and stay welded to knowing you are your own god and your own satan you can see now that you possess the power we all have the power actually to create our own heaven or our own hell.don’t spend to much time looking back our rear view mirrors are small for a reason the big picture is always right in front of us! Thank you for sharing your story with the world may it inspire and bring a fuel to those with just an ember of hope may your story ignite the burning that forges a phoenix. May the pains you still have be eased and may the souls of your mother and father find you daily and live in you to help you reach that apex you have inside your heart, I believe people such as yourself must go through all the damage all the storms all the hopelessness to eventually morph into an earth angel-blessings will shower down on you stay strong-
I don’t often get teary at the videos but this one got me. I could literally feel the gratitude emanating from Adam when he was talking about his current life and having his son back. Proud of you Adam. I hope others look to you as an inspiration for getting well ❤️
It goes to show you that heroin isn’t picky. My parents were separated too… both remarried… abuse… straight a’s, sports, college… path of trouble… my mom had gotten cancer and after several surgeries and all my abusive toxic relationships… I then turned to heroin and became a heroin addict… went to prison while my mom was going through active cancer…. CHANGED MY ENTIRE LIFE…. I have been out of prison now since dec of 2021 and I am 2 years clean now! Obviously I have a much bigger story with lots of pieces left out… now I say that my personal mission is to inspire a desire for change. but yes, addiction isn’t picky. It will take ANYONE… it doesn’t matter how much control you think you have or how functioning you think you are. There’s no functioning in it… I found myself relating with him on many things he discusses and talks about.. ❤ very inspiring!
What a great story I got clean and 1995 a couple of small relapse but what you have accomplished in three years with nonprofit helping addicts and people with mental health we need more people like you Adam keep up the great and sharing your story
What an honest, reflective person. You can see and hear the sadness and regret he lives with. What an inspiration - salvation comes through helping others. Good luck Adam you’re doing great things.
Losing a parent to cancer is so deeply devastating. There should be support so people can learn coping skills so they don't fall into a pit of despair. Now he can help others, and he can make a huge difference.
What a story, Adam. It makes me happy to hear your life has done a complete 180 and you have the privilege of raising your boy. Congrats on breaking the cycle.
The best support usually emerges from personal experience. If every person does what you’ve done we could turn dissatisfaction into compassion. Thank you for your service and the love felt by your children ❤
Well done 🙌🏻 No more living in shame, you’re owning your story, the good, bad and ugly. You are doing the hard work in making all the positive changes. I’ve never been a drug addict or alcoholic however can relate to the behaviours, and really do believe that you’ve got to go through the pain, that rock bottom before you can heal. Great work giving back too.. leave any shame or guilt behind Adam and keep moving into this positive light.. We never believe that brighter days are ahead, but they really are. All the best to you 🙌🏻
So refreshing to see someone being honest about his addiction. He blames no one and fesses up to what us addicts use in terms of excuses to keep using. ❤❤❤
Well once an addict has recovered they generally don’t blame others… the drugs make you feel like you’re the lowest person. They make you feel guilty and have skewed thinking which in turn causes people to blame everyone and everything other than themselves. Life experiences that are traumatic often DO cause the addiction but once the person is sober they understand the part they played as well. That’s when the acceptance that they are the ones responsible comes in. ❤❤❤
Excellent journey he is on! I am currently going through the "change" with my partner. When you are the closest person to an addict, it is nice to see the unexpected changes when they happen. I will say that when you love an addict, there is a thin line between helping & enabling. But the reality is they intermingle so well that you have to stop "helping" but only support with the bare necessities until they are ready to change on their own. Thank you for this interview. The addict is never recover(ed) because we are all a work in progress. It is a lifestyle change & they will be recovering for the rest of their life, remembering you are 1 bad decision away from losing it all again. Take care & wishing you continued success, Adam❣❣
Hey Adam. I get you brother. I was always huge into sports especially basketball. I never touched drugs in my life- even after the Marines and Desert Storm - until I had elbow surgery in my late 40’s. Doc gave me Percocet. I never heard of it before. By the time I realized what hit me I was scoring 100 mg of oxy on the street per day. That’s $1500 a week. Almost killed me. Didn’t go the H route because I’m a wuss with needles. Went to rehab twice finally beat it. I wish you nothing but the best going forward good luck bro. Congratulations on your sobriety and I’m so glad you have your boy with you.
From a fellow IV heroin user who has 12 years sober, I am proud of you Adam! One day at a time and before you know it you will have years under your belt. Keep fighting the good fight!
Big loves to Adam, this is the best interview yet, it has really hit home, because being a adult is bloody hard, yet Adam shows us how it's done. Big ups to this bro, Adam shows us that it's not our past, but our future that is important.
That's a powerful testimony. I think it's important in these times to remember that we're hearing from someone who could so easily be dead right now and with so many people dead from overdoses, these words hit hard. Wishing that Adam can touch as many others as possible with his message.
much respect to you. I know how hard it is to get clean. I too am a 30 year heroin addict. I am clean 3 plus years now. Still detoxing from methadone my 11th time but I have not used any street drugs or alchohol since 3 years ago. I too couldnt live that way anymore. Congrats its so hard to do what you have. I am happy for you..
Adam, this was your life's journey to be who YOU are today. You are a blessing to have on this earth. There is a quote that says: “The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggle, known loss, and have found their way out of the depths. These persons have an appreciation, a sensitivity, and an understanding of life that fills them with compassion, gentleness, and a deep loving concern. Beautiful people do not just happen.” This is YOU Adam. ❤ Thank you for sharing your life story with all of us.
Adam, thank you for sharing. Whether it’s in person at a meeting, or online or over coffee with one or two people from the program, it’s always great to be able to sit down and listen to someone who is just like me. Love you man. 12/28/15 here.
No. 15 of the Attitudes of Mastery(KS teachings) - "ACTITUDE - Gratitude in Action". So thankful and grateful that Adam has this innerstanding. So powerful and self-healing.
Adam i’m so sorry you had so much pain because of your parents hating each other and them getting divorced. No parent should fight infront of their kids. Your such a strong man. Stay sober and your fiancé and your son will be your rock. love Angela 😘💋🇦🇺🇮🇹👼🏼👼🏼💜💜🤍💙
What a wonderful story. He made it through the fire and came out a better person. I applaud this man for coming out on top. A true hero who deserves a great life,despite his hard comings. Always wonderful to watch an interview that has a happy ending.
As someone who is from HB. I’ve known Adam for years. I did meet him at one of those weekend parties, back in the day. He’s always had my back. That is true about “We don’t quit!” I’ve personally never got into the whole hard drugs culture. I just never really saw a point of it. As I noticed Adam sobering up, and even not drinking anymore. I really looked up to him, and cut back myself. At the end of day. It all boils down to self control, and being strong both mentally and physically.
I feel like growing up in a broken home and having an addict father really damages a person. Im a father and i dont know how to be a father but i have great children but struggle knowing how to be a good dad.
So glad you were able to beat it and change your life. I'm sure you are really making a difference in the people's lives you help. Keep up the good work. Like you said, you're here for a reason.
Very impressed with this guy's story and intellect. I could definitely relate to some of the addiction aspects. Nothing but best wishes and sending good vibes to THIS soldier.
I have 6 children and not until they were adults did I truly understand the damage my actions affected them. Some things were just a few words that I said in anger and apologized right after thinking said and done for me but not my kids it affects who they are as a person. I have now spent 30 years trying to make them understand that was my fears and incompetence as a parent not them. I hope Adam gets all the beautiful things life has to offer he deserves it.
BRAVO!!! Thank you for sharing your life. Thank you for your work! I’m so beyond happy for you reuniting and now parenting your son. All the best to you and to those whom you will be able to reach. Also to those who at least try even if they fail to find lasting success. The best is yet to come.
So true! What I saw people around me doing, growing up, is what I thought I could do. When you see people who are successful in legit careers, it’s easier to think you can do that. When I went to treatment, I told a counselor I’d love to be able to do what she does and she told me, “I think you would be great at that.” She mirrored me back in a different way. I said, “If I go back to school I’ll be 45 when I finish.” She asked, “How old will you be in 4 years if you don’t go to school?” She had me there! She was also in recovery and finished school at 46. I hope that when people see themselves in Adam’s addiction story, they can also see themselves having a happy ending to that story, like his! Instead of it just ending, though, Adam turned it into a way to help others. His experience has become a strength since he saw himself using it that way. The power of the mind is incredible!
Adam is my sponsor and best friend. I went from Oklahoma ti California for treatment. Meeting this guy changed my life.. He is one of the best humans ive ever met. He had a heart of gold and he helps so many ppl....
I can see why you say this about Adam. From the get go of this interview there is a sense of integrity and honesty that drew me in. Thank you for your comment🙏
I got the sense that I was listening to a genuine human being, who was grateful for another chance in living and ready to serve and help the weak/lost. I wish you the best in all you do, Adam. Warm greetings from the Netherlands.
give him a big hug next time you see him!
Love hearing there are good people helping others. Glad you found him ❤️
@obsidianch,😜ao
This guy impressed me more than any of your other interviews I've watched.
A strong, sensitive, honest man, after going through hell. All the best to him.
Yeah right. I can’t even imagine all his victims rooting for him.
@@couchprincess698 It's not unusual for victims to become the victimizers later on. I'll give credit to anybody who is willing to work through their personal damage and regain their sense of decency and moral compass again.
"Making amends to those you've harmed" is part of any 12 step program.
Do you not believe that people can redeem themselves?
@@couchprincess698 😂 💯facts
Strong sensitive guy, are u gay.
I was thinking the same thing
“The pain I was experiencing finally outweighed the fear I had” what a powerful statement.
So true! It was essential for me.
Yes, exactly how it was for me
I love this man ❤❤❤
Truth
True❤
Interesting that after watching endless videos on this channel one thing that they all have in common is a broken childhood and or family. Shows how important is too look after our children for a better life and world.
Most drug addicts have some trauma of some sort...
It’s all about reassurance, reminds me of these Jordan Peterson clips where he has tears explaining how little encouragement can completely switch a person’s trajectory, how important it is to be aware of your potential and have some guidance in key moments.
in my case all my problems are just that my problems and my responsibility but my childhood (my dad!?) messed my life up !!!
Agreed!!
And that is what this channel is ALL about : AWARENESS!!!!!!!
I heard the pride in Adam's voice when he spoke about what he's doing today. I wish him health and strength for the future
@Gabriel How is he doing that? Lol
@@trevorjennings72 Bot
Humility and Humbleness is what I hear
Here is someone who simply wanted to share his story. He was asked 1 simple question and his whole story just unraveled without hesitation. Sometimes people just want to be heard
I feel that. Good word fam!
And are boring
um. i think he had this planned. he knew where he was going today. lol
He has told this story thousands and thousands of times. These are all rehashed and rehearsed thoughts. I think it's good for some people but I personally couldn't imagine talking about myself for an hour... especially if I had the exact story. Happy for the guy tho.
Obviously his had this talk before.
That’s my little brother! ❤ you … so beyond proud of you!
Some parents have no idea how damaging it is to speak badly about each other to their children. A divorce is difficult enough on children. Make children a priority.
Something I was guilty of in the past and something I'm trying to help my girlfriend understand. I also saw my son deal with his mom talk so much $hit about me and then tell him "You're just like your dad!" Now we both support each other's parenting and things are easier
"Gratitude is an action word and I am a firm believer in 'What am I doing today to show those around me that I am grateful'?" LOVE THIS! Thank you brilliant interview .
I’m a recovering addict & I needed to hear this one today !!!
Awwww....😇
@@genarenee3697 thanks
Keep your head up Tony, you can do this 🙌🏻
@@Mim795 thank you 🙏🏾 so much Michelle !!!
Stay strong tony.. you got this Mayne.
I too have been struggling with my sobriety. I'm only 18 mo clean off a 24 year opiate addiction. I'm only 37... I spent my whole life chasing that H.
Now I'm socially crippled from years of being mean to everyone.. I feel horrible, I see now how fukd up I was.
This story in Southern California is ubiquitous. Broken middle class families losing their sons to the culture of the street.
Fathers, love your sons
Oh man, that touched my heart.
You mean America, same deal all over .
Fathers love your sons mothers, and be a beacon for the family, men are so important. Family is everything.
@@a.marvellehoneyman4560 women stop demonising men, stop blaming men, stop attacking masculinity. look in the mirror if you want change
@@philinn4788 I agree with you excellent advice for everyone. 👍🏼men are very important, Phil, I appreciate men and am thankful for their complementarity.
Me and this guy so simmilar,Both battle this heroin demon,
had great childhood,raced motocross and cross country,
thenhighschool and bad influence and my dad dieing,mt aunt and grandmom(2 from cancer),
the 3 most influential people in my life and ....here we are.
Got married 6 years ago and just now trying to get clean....pray for me people!
This man took us through the entire "heros journey" in 45 mins. What a redemption story. We will never meet, but I wish you all the best my friend...I am happy we are alive at the same time.
Mark, I really like that you're doing interviews of people that have overcome, for this day, their addictions and other problems. It's really encouraging. And to see the depth of hell, only to overcome and reach back to help those who're going through similar struggles - it's gratifying.
Adam's raw, insightful interview is definitely in the top 3 of the absolute best!
Hello Sandi, how are you doing today, hope you’re fine and safe from the COVID-19 virus??
Adam, I am a registered substance-use disorder counselor working my way to being certified like you. I currently teach at a DUI program in Carson, CA and run the office, and have become a project lead for the newly opened DUI MAT program to help identify opiate use disorders and substance use disorders for DUI clients. You are doing God’s work. And God has blessed you with a new life in sobriety. Keep up the good work hopefully we will cross paths one day in the treatment world, now from the other side of the desk helping others.
You can feel the pain when he was talking about his mother.
You remind me so much of my man who died in my arms in 2018 from an od. And I couldn't wait for the cops & emt's & everyone to leave after he was pronounced & they took him away so I could pull my plate back out & get high.....still when I think about that I can't believe that was my focus after he was gone....I was destroyed. I got sober after. My mom has been fighting ovarian cancer for years now along with diabetes & Parkinson's & she's like a cat with 9 lives. God (whoever, you see him or her or what to be) has blessed you with a second chance at life. Good for you Adam. You deserve it! It's so weird, you even sound like him, mannerisms & everything!! You ar the kind of person people want to help & see doing well & Now you are that beacon for others - so more power to you my friend. Be Well Adam.
Wow, this dude made me cry. He is proof that when your ready your ready. Blessings to you and your family brother. Stay strong!
Almost made it through this whole interview without a tear until you talked about your son.You may have messed up a lot in your younger years Adam but you did a great job with picking the woman who had your child.She took him away from danger,let you handle yourself but the moment she caught wind that you were actually doing good and trying to get clean she was ringing you up offering to put your baby back in your life,I applaud her big time for that,that’s a good mother.And you turning your life around,no matter how long it took you did it..your little boy was coming real close to growing up without a father and now he’s living with you and having you in his life daily makes me so unbelievably happy.Praying for your guys future to continue being happy.
Adam it is no surprise to me that you were able to turn things around for yourself and help others as well, I can see you're humility and humanity in this video. You have managed to uncover it after so much chaos, it is so impressive. Thank you for telling your story! I wish you the best.
I love when Mark just lets his interviewees talk. I teared up when he talked about seeing his son after years. Adam is just so amazing. I wish you continued success.
Grief.! I don’t care how strong you are or what you think you know but until you’ve experienced true grief you just don’t know what broken is
Part of his grief is not understanding what death really is. It's not what we are lead to believe. Death is only the beginning. That person is not gone forever, you just won't see them for a long while until you die and cross to the other side. I don't speak that out of ignorance but factual knowledge. I know of a guy that had a near death experience and you don't just fade to black. GOD exists, and so do your loved ones who have gone before you. They are just in another plane of existence, but still their soul lives on....
@@GODInTheWax444 I couldn’t agree more there is much to this life after this body is done this is not my first merry go round we’ve all done this before the question is did you learn something with a little bit of luck once you’ve learned enough maybe you won’t have to come back anymore if it wasn’t for my dogs I would’ve already met my maker I know all about it at least from my perspective my wife my brother my mother they’re all with me we’re all part of the same spark the question is are you gonna let them put it out
@@GODInTheWax444 exactly, I had a spiritual awakening when I turned off my sons life support. The unconditional love that I felt lasted for months and sent me on a hunt to find where my son was going. We are eternal. Love and light to you
What a story. This man is an inspiration for others. Thank you for the interview
Maybe we should stop selling NARCAN. If we keep using it on OD ing . If we keep bringing them back to life they continue to use drugs . Stop NARCAN. Decrease drug usage. Natural selection.
This channel's gold - it's interesting for viewers to hear people from all walks of life express their pain and gives the guests an outlet.
That's one tough dude. Not for what he's done in life but for having the ability to lay it all out. Stronger man than I.
Thankful this morning to see a story of a person who has overcome the pain and the challenges that come with drugs. I pray that his life of gratitude and peace will continue and that he will be able to help and be the right person that helps many people in their recovery. They can’t make a recovery without this kind of person to support them through the process
“What am I doing today to show those around me that I’m grateful?” Powerful stuff! Congratulations on your accomplishments! ❤️
Wow, this was hands down the best interview I’ve seen! Very impressive and so happy he made it to the other side and out there helping others! Your Mom would be so proud! 🥰♥️
What a lucky little boy... To have this man for a father. Nothing is gunna stop him. Cause his model for a man is a straight beast.
i lost my dad to cancer last year, and i was a daddy's girl. Sorry for your loss. So proud of how people can overcome their demons like this man did.
Adam's story is riveting. A truly happy ending - he has his son and is engaged. He is helping others now. I am glad he is a survivor. It's a tough world out there for so many.
What a beautiful come back from tragedy. Love to hear people who can overcome the darkness in life.
I tested up when he said he’s a substance abuse counselor, bc he really is using his experience to try and help others have a better life & he’s affecting so many people in a positive way.. listening to him makes me feel so hopeful, it makes me feel like I can use everything I’ve been through to help others too. I forget a lot of the time that that’s the purpose, but this brought it back to the front of my mind.
“When you’re doing the right things, for the right reasons” You’re an inspiration man, great work.
Got clean off the dope last year but been struggling recently with pills, this video was cathartic and therapeutic.
Good luck with your recovery, you are worth it. Life is not easy, most people have stories but be gentle on yourself, love yourself, acknowledge your pain and hurt and have no fear. You are here for a reason! God bless you and have a beautiful day.
Getting off of dope is rough, and then my nerves would be a wreck, and I would somehow convince myself to just do oxys like every few days, until I was back to being strung out on dope all over again soon after. Over, and over, and over again. This happened so many times I lost count. You have to stay away from all of it if you want to stop. Out of sight, out of mind. And stay away from users. I wanted to stay being everyone’s friend too, but birds of a feather flock together. Keep your distance from all of it. I wish you luck 🙏🏻
The path is rarely straight and relapsing is a part of recovery. I struggled with heroin addiction as well and lost count on how many times I've relapsed. Just as Scott Jackson I thought I could just do it every now. Rewarding myself. It doesn't work and eventually you'll end up where you were.
Take all the help you can get, keep your mind busy and distracted.
I wish you the best and that you'll get off the pill as soon as possible. Stay safe!
I really hope you're doing better now
During this interview I was thinking how well he was telling his story and that he would be perfect to help others. At the 38:32 mark I was elated when he said he was a counselor and went on to say how he is helping others. Thank you Adam.
So many people don't make it through addiction and get sober. I've battled addiction for over 20 years and I've lost both of my legs below the knees and my hearing except for 18 percent in my left ear and my vision in my left eye from using needles and I've been sober now for about 5 years and currently in a Suboxone program. In the past few years I've lost about 10 friends from addiction. Hat's off to you sir for making it through such a deadly cycle ❤. The most important part of beating addiction and getting sober is you have to want it because I don't care how good of a treatment program and rehab your in if you're not sick and tired of that life and truly to the point of wanting to change it will never happen and so so many people never get a chance to make it that far.😢
You’re still here for a reason! Congratulations on your sobriety! Keep the Faith and stay strong!!
So when are you going to kick the Suboxone?
@@francesgarcia8749 thank you my friend an yes I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for the good Lord above.
@@riceflatpicking4954 well I've talked to my Dr about tapering off of Suboxone because I don't feel like I need it anymore but Dr doesn't agree with me she thinks i might need to stay on Suboxone for the rest of my life. There's days when I disagree with her and then I have days when I believe she might be right so yeah that's where I'm at right now anyways.
Good job man, keep it up!! And yes, you really do have to want it! I'm going through that right now
Adam your the man. I’m proud of you.good luck. Happy to see you have your son.
I’ve watched this one a few times. Gives me some strength when I need it. Thank you.
I just recently rewatched a video that also gives me strength and hope.. Diana- (unf#*k myself). Hey its a positive coping skill! Stay strong😊
Not many men come to recognize the error of their ways. Even less succeed in correcting them. Respect, Sir.
Congratulations Adam I hope this comment will find you im a total stranger we don’t know each other in any way at all but I tap into this channel every now and then and some stories energize me and make me feel good and some make my head hang low and crush my heart,I’m so proud of you for finally finding an exit from the chains you had slowly built around your self,the power of choices at times we don’t even understand, one choice can effect so many things so many people,at times good and sometimes bad,now you can see how each has its reward,sometimes we have so much hurt we add more rather than heal the wounds we infect ourselves even more our lives become a cesspool of depravity and total depression on levels we can’t even imagine. You have won a second chance at life with perseverance and self determination and I hope your story has the magic and energy or blessing to pull others out of the furnace of afflictions they have welcomed.please continue the good work continue all your goal building stay welded to your son stay welded to sobriety and stay welded to knowing you are your own god and your own satan you can see now that you possess the power we all have the power actually to create our own heaven or our own hell.don’t spend to much time looking back our rear view mirrors are small for a reason the big picture is always right in front of us! Thank you for sharing your story with the world may it inspire and bring a fuel to those with just an ember of hope may your story ignite the burning that forges a phoenix. May the pains you still have be eased and may the souls of your mother and father find you daily and live in you to help you reach that apex you have inside your heart, I believe people such as yourself must go through all the damage all the storms all the hopelessness to eventually morph into an earth angel-blessings will shower down on you stay strong-
Beaufully said, priceless words. Thank you
❤
Wow Bobby I’m tearing up 🥹
That was beautifully said and I felt the genuine emotion in that. SJ reppin!
Beautiful
Absofuckinglutely!!
I don’t often get teary at the videos but this one got me. I could literally feel the gratitude emanating from Adam when he was talking about his current life and having his son back. Proud of you Adam. I hope others look to you as an inspiration for getting well ❤️
Great interview. Said "sports" so many times it's burned into my brain.
It goes to show you that heroin isn’t picky. My parents were separated too… both remarried… abuse… straight a’s, sports, college… path of trouble… my mom had gotten cancer and after several surgeries and all my abusive toxic relationships… I then turned to heroin and became a heroin addict… went to prison while my mom was going through active cancer…. CHANGED MY ENTIRE LIFE…. I have been out of prison now since dec of 2021 and I am 2 years clean now! Obviously I have a much bigger story with lots of pieces left out… now I say that my personal mission is to inspire a desire for change. but yes, addiction isn’t picky. It will take ANYONE… it doesn’t matter how much control you think you have or how functioning you think you are. There’s no functioning in it… I found myself relating with him on many things he discusses and talks about.. ❤ very inspiring!
What a great story I got clean and 1995 a couple of small relapse but what you have accomplished in three years with nonprofit helping addicts and people with mental health we need more people like you Adam keep up the great and sharing your story
What an honest, reflective person. You can see and hear the sadness and regret he lives with. What an inspiration - salvation comes through helping others. Good luck Adam you’re doing great things.
Apart from being a surfer pmsl
If you haven't helped yourself first and continually through awareness, helping any other is just delusion.
Losing a parent to cancer is so deeply devastating. There should be support so people can learn coping skills so they don't fall into a pit of despair.
Now he can help others, and he can make a huge difference.
It just goes to show you if you want to stop you will. If you don’t, you won’t. No one can make anyone do anything.
What a story, Adam. It makes me happy to hear your life has done a complete 180 and you have the privilege of raising your boy. Congrats on breaking the cycle.
The best support usually emerges from personal experience. If every person does what you’ve done we could turn dissatisfaction into compassion. Thank you for your service and the love felt by your children ❤
I was not expecting this interview to end the way it did. Blessings to you and the major change in your life.
Well done 🙌🏻 No more living in shame, you’re owning your story, the good, bad and ugly. You are doing the hard work in making all the positive changes. I’ve never been a drug addict or alcoholic however can relate to the behaviours, and really do believe that you’ve got to go through the pain, that rock bottom before you can heal. Great work giving back too.. leave any shame or guilt behind Adam and keep moving into this positive light.. We never believe that brighter days are ahead, but they really are. All the best to you 🙌🏻
Beautiful title and lead-in, Mark. I could hear Adam and the whole structure of the interview. Very powerful!
So refreshing to see someone being honest about his addiction. He blames no one and fesses up to what us addicts use in terms of excuses to keep using. ❤❤❤
Well once an addict has recovered they generally don’t blame others… the drugs make you feel like you’re the lowest person. They make you feel guilty and have skewed thinking which in turn causes people to blame everyone and everything other than themselves.
Life experiences that are traumatic often DO cause the addiction but once the person is sober they understand the part they played as well. That’s when the acceptance that they are the ones responsible comes in.
❤❤❤
Excellent journey he is on! I am currently going through the "change" with my partner. When you are the closest person to an addict, it is nice to see the unexpected changes when they happen. I will say that when you love an addict, there is a thin line between helping & enabling. But the reality is they intermingle so well that you have to stop "helping" but only support with the bare necessities until they are ready to change on their own. Thank you for this interview. The addict is never recover(ed) because we are all a work in progress. It is a lifestyle change & they will be recovering for the rest of their life, remembering you are 1 bad decision away from losing it all again. Take care & wishing you continued success, Adam❣❣
One of the most important channels on TH-cam
Incredible!! Thanks for sharing your story. Your son must be so proud of his dad!!
Hey Adam. I get you brother. I was always huge into sports especially basketball. I never touched drugs in my life- even after the Marines and Desert Storm - until I had elbow surgery in my late 40’s. Doc gave me Percocet. I never heard of it before.
By the time I realized what hit me I was scoring 100 mg of oxy on the street per day. That’s $1500 a week. Almost killed me. Didn’t go the H route because I’m a wuss with needles. Went to rehab twice finally beat it. I wish you nothing but the best going forward good luck bro. Congratulations on your sobriety and I’m so glad you have your boy with you.
This interview- testimony was very much worth my time. Adam is giving back with his honesty and self reflection. Respect🙏
What a tremendous inspiration you are Adam!!! I am so happy for you and your son! God bless you keep that beautiful head raised high❤❤❤
From a fellow IV heroin user who has 12 years sober, I am proud of you Adam! One day at a time and before you know it you will have years under your belt. Keep fighting the good fight!
This is a good dude, I hope things work out for him.
You forgot the "now"
“I am blessed with a beautiful life”, after everything he’s been through….melts your heart.❤️
Sport and other social activities can help overcome the addiction. God bless Adam.
Remember he was very good in sports early in life, scholarships etc. Jesus Christ wants to guide us in this life into the next
@@J.F611 🤨
Big loves to Adam, this is the best interview yet, it has really hit home, because being a adult is bloody hard, yet Adam shows us how it's done.
Big ups to this bro, Adam shows us that it's not our past, but our future that is important.
That's a powerful testimony. I think it's important in these times to remember that we're hearing from someone who could so easily be dead right now and with so many people dead from overdoses, these words hit hard. Wishing that Adam can touch as many others as possible with his message.
much respect to you. I know how hard it is to get clean. I too am a 30 year heroin addict. I am clean 3 plus years now. Still detoxing from methadone my 11th time but I have not used any street drugs or alchohol since 3 years ago. I too couldnt live that way anymore. Congrats its so hard to do what you have. I am happy for you..
Adam, this was your life's journey to be who YOU are today. You are a blessing to have on this earth. There is a quote that says: “The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggle, known loss, and have found their way out of the depths. These persons have an appreciation, a sensitivity, and an understanding of life that fills them with compassion, gentleness, and a deep loving concern. Beautiful people do not just happen.” This is YOU Adam. ❤ Thank you for sharing your life story with all of us.
I've known Adam for years and done time with him. Always been a solid dude.
"I was willing to do the work that would change my life" And it was done for you,Adam. And you did it. Thanks for such honesty.
wow all of these videos are powerful but this was above and beyond. Thanks
Job well done brother! Much love to you sir! Take care of yourself and your son. We recover together.
Yessss!
Glad you were willing and are still willing, to participate in your recovery. Service to others is the key. Keep coming back! (friend of Bill.)
My spiritual awakening came time stopped. And, I found the rooms of NA. So grateful your here to sponsor and give back.
Adam, your story was just wow. Thank you for your interview. I wish you all the blessings you deserve, brother. ❤
Adam, thank you for sharing. Whether it’s in person at a meeting, or online or over coffee with one or two people from the program, it’s always great to be able to sit down and listen to someone who is just like me. Love you man. 12/28/15 here.
Recovering alcoholic here thank you Adam for bravery
Congratulations on pulling yourself out of that lifestyle . You’re an inspiration to others . Nothing but the utmost …
No. 15 of the Attitudes of Mastery(KS teachings) - "ACTITUDE - Gratitude in Action". So thankful and grateful that Adam has this innerstanding. So powerful and self-healing.
The crux of the matter: Change happens when the pain felt now is scarier than pain that is feared.
Facilitating this realization is the exercise.
I love this one. In recovery myself from heroin and all the other bad stuff. Great story.
Adam i’m so sorry you had so much pain because of your parents hating each other and them getting divorced. No parent should fight infront of their kids. Your such a strong man. Stay sober and your fiancé and your son will be your rock. love Angela 😘💋🇦🇺🇮🇹👼🏼👼🏼💜💜🤍💙
What a wonderful story. He made it through the fire and came out a better person. I applaud this man for coming out on top. A true hero who deserves a great life,despite his hard comings. Always wonderful to watch an interview that has a happy ending.
Thank you mark for the work you do with these interviews, I wish this man the best with his sobriety and his purpose. God bless.
Also…..thank you for being so brave to share your journey with us Adam. I wish you nothing but the best.
Wow! Nice one, mate - so glad you turned it all around.
What an inspiration!!
Write a book or screenplay,.. Your story is heartbreaking happy end. I got tears in my eyes! Hope you stay clean with your son
Another great video Mark. Love the way you get them started, then they let it all out on their own afterwards.
A true local once told me in rehab... WE'RE FROM HUNTINGTON BEACH... WE DON'T QUIT! keep it up Adam you're making your home city proud.
As someone who is from HB. I’ve known Adam for years. I did meet him at one of those weekend parties, back in the day. He’s always had my back. That is true about “We don’t quit!” I’ve personally never got into the whole hard drugs culture. I just never really saw a point of it. As I noticed Adam sobering up, and even not drinking anymore. I really looked up to him, and cut back myself. At the end of day. It all boils down to self control, and being strong both mentally and physically.
@@whatforaaron2494 self control for non addicts yes, but once an addict there's no moderating, that's why abstinence is the only way.
I feel Adam's pain , but also celebrate his accomplishments, let's goooooooooo adammmmmmmmmm
I feel like growing up in a broken home and having an addict father really damages a person. Im a father and i dont know how to be a father but i have great children but struggle knowing how to be a good dad.
So glad you were able to beat it and change your life. I'm sure you are really making a difference in the people's lives you help. Keep up the good work. Like you said, you're here for a reason.
Very impressed with this guy's story and intellect. I could definitely relate to some of the addiction aspects. Nothing but best wishes and sending good vibes to THIS soldier.
This was a very inspirational video to watch. Thank you for posting it.
Love you Adam. Glad to be on the path with you and our other friends that got out of that life and into this brand new one.
My story is so similar. I'm glad you are on the right path
I have 6 children and not until they were adults did I truly understand the damage my actions affected them. Some things were just a few words that I said in anger and apologized right after thinking said and done for me but not my kids it affects who they are as a person. I have now spent 30 years trying to make them understand that was my fears and incompetence as a parent not them. I hope Adam gets all the beautiful things life has to offer he deserves it.
BRAVO!!! Thank you for sharing your life. Thank you for your work! I’m so beyond happy for you reuniting and now parenting your son.
All the best to you and to those whom you will be able to reach. Also to those who at least try even if they fail to find lasting success.
The best is yet to come.
What I got from this interview with Adam is that our thoughts can ruthlessly shape what we think we can do and how much we deserve out of life.
So true! What I saw people around me doing, growing up, is what I thought I could do. When you see people who are successful in legit careers, it’s easier to think you can do that. When I went to treatment, I told a counselor I’d love to be able to do what she does and she told me, “I think you would be great at that.” She mirrored me back in a different way. I said, “If I go back to school I’ll be 45 when I finish.” She asked, “How old will you be in 4 years if you don’t go to school?” She had me there! She was also in recovery and finished school at 46. I hope that when people see themselves in Adam’s addiction story, they can also see themselves having a happy ending to that story, like his! Instead of it just ending, though, Adam turned it into a way to help others. His experience has become a strength since he saw himself using it that way. The power of the mind is incredible!
Thank God, a happy ending! Adam, you're an amazing man and role model. Thank you for giving back. I wish you the best!