In This Season of Thanksgiving, I Have Much to Be Thankful For

by Karen Knipe

 First of all I am truly thankful for my Higher Power, whom I choose to call God today, for allowing me another chance in life. I'm truly thankful for the police who busted me last year on November 19, 1992. If it weren't for them, I believe I wouldn't be here today. Because of the bust, I became homeless. I used to snub my nose at homeless people, but today I don't do that. I now know how it feels to be homeless, hungry, hopeless, and lonely.

 I am also truly thankful to all my children, especially my oldest son Ed, for not enabling me. If he would have given me a place, I would still be drinking and doing drugs today. I want to take this chance to say thank you and I love all my children from the bottom of my heart. I want to give thanks to the following for giving me back my life:

 My God, Rosary Hall, my children, the Upstairs program and their staff (old and new), The staff of West Side Catholic Center, Alcoholics Anonymous program, McDonald's - for allowing me to come back after I quit, Anita, my sponsor, and my home group.

 Because of all these people and my God, I am sober and drug free today. I am also thankful for Heilda and Jamie for being my friends. I love each and every one of you.

 May each and every one of you have a very happy and safe holiday season and may your God Bless you!

 P.S. To my grandchildren; you now have your grandmother back. I now know how to love you three and your parents, thanks to all those who took the time and patience with me. Believe me, I was a big job!!

Copyright Homeless Grapevine and the Northeast Ohio Coalition for the Homeless in Cleveland Ohio December-January 1994