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Member Forum |
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THE LIVING MIRACLES
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Welcome to The Living Miracles website. My name is Richard Folbert. I am very pleased to share the success of my recovery as it relates to my association with The Living Miracles self-help, peer-support and recovery group. I first encountered this wonderful organization in January, 2003. Immediately, a warm genuine relationship with group members formed because friendly and caring feelings were extended to me. At that time, close to six years ago, I was released from jail with no belongings to speak of or friends to rely on. Even though I had been feeling bitter and angry, the atmosphere of the group fostered positive emotions in me. At first, the nightly meetings provided opportunity to express the darkness that developed within me over many years time. I thought I would frighten some members with tales of my escapades. Much to my surprise, I discovered that I was not as unique as I thought. Others in the group expressed similar experiences, feelings and emotions. I was not alone anymore: the connection with the membership identified my feelings of isolation and misery that were common to many members. I believe many consumers of mental heath services suffer intense emotional pain and physical agony due to the mental health systems inability to always understand our needs. We are not inept as much as society believes. We have survived trauma and injury mentally and physically and face the stigma of ignorance every day. It is a weight most people would crumble under as I once did. Some of the tools I use for success were acquired in the group meetings and activities. Loyalty, persistence, honesty and truthfulness are just a few of the many benefits developed over time that were absent in my life. It became readily apparent that things were changing for the better. Hope was developing where there had been none. My peers took active interest in my recovery, which helped form lasting bonds. Advocating with other members of The Living Miracles led us to advocate and actively participate in the mental health system to acquire a place to call our own. In a respectable manner we as members came to understand the need for us to make ourselves heard. Another part of the success I’ve achieved includes working on behalf of The Living Miracles as a Peer Support Specialist. I consider it a great honor to be able to give back to those who’ve supported me over the years and to keep our tradition of self-help and peer support alive. Fairly recently I proposed marriage to my girlfriend, which she accepted. A few years ago I believed there would be no more love in my life. The transformation into a respectable and responsible person allowed others to see a side of me they hadn’t seen before. It feels good. I’ve barely touched upon all the great and astounding work our group accomplishes. Come for a visit at 1581 West 117th Street or call us at (216) 221-6323. We are very proud of what we have become. We extend an invitation for you to help yourself by joining in our efforts to supply everyone with hope and encouragement, education and support, and to lead fulfilling lives and find the true meaning in helping others.
Richard A. Folbert Peer Support Specialist The Living Miracles
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Richard Folbert outside the Living Miracles building. |