It's all OK

Nathan was in last night. We haven’t seen him for several months. He has been receiving his care from a referral source.

I have a soft spot for Nathan, as he suffers from the same chronic health condition my husband has. I know what a tough journey it has been for us, and we have so many resources – insurance, a primary care provider, family and friends – so much support.

Nathan told me last night that he is no longer receiving treatment for his condition – the side effects of the medication had taken a toll. So, he’s off treatment until next spring.

He also told me that he lost his job; the company he was working for has closed. He was without work for a few weeks; fortunately he was able to borrow money from his dad and his sisters in order to make it. When he can’t pay his rent, he works for his landlord – painting, yard work, whatever needs to be done. He just started a new job making $7.40 an hour. His paycheck covered his car payment, with $1 left. He is thankful he was able to make the car payment after not having any work. But he is having a hard time making ends meet. He finally broke down and applied for food stamps – “just to get through” he told me. He doesn’t want a handout.

He told me several times “It’s all OK” as he told me his story.

He proudly showed me his 10 year sobriety token. He told me as long as he stays sober, it is all OK. That is his primary focus; he needs this new job to provide for himself, and to stay sober.

It’s all OK.

Maybe I need to remember that sometimes.

It’s all OK.