title

As I have mentioned, meth is a problem in my area. I suppose it is everywhere, but statistically it really is a big deal here. Recently a coalition was formed to help come up with ways to combat the meth epidemic that plagues our area. Sadly, most members of the coalition do not show up for the meetings and apparently do not even read the minutes of the meetings they missed. We are setting up an Oxford house and the community is having a fit. This is my letter to the editor. You should know that this is a conservative Christian area. In fact, we can't even buy alcohol in this county, unless you belong to a private club that has a special license.

---------
Recently I was told that this is a Christian nation and that the people should use their vote to support Christian causes. I agree with part of that statement. I think that citizens should be more active in their government and their communities, it is up to us to create a better world. In Boone county we are consistent in our opinions about the sanctity of life, the value of marriage, and the sale of alcohol. But are our actions consistent with our opinions? Many resent the government assistance for children born into poverty, our divorce rate is not lower than the rest of the country, and we have a serious drug and alcohol abuse problem.

According to the FBI arrest statistics for Boone county there were 153 arrest for drunkenness, 193 DWI arrests, and 152 drug abuse violations in 2005. Consider for a moment the high price that is paid by individuals as well as by the community. Addiction destroys lives, families, and communities. While many may be lucky enough to have not been affected by a personal battle or by a loved one struggling with addiction, it is fair to say that there is not a neighborhood in Boone county that is completely free of substance abuse.

Right now we have the opportunity to support a good work, to actually carry through with the collective Christian conviction of this community. Thanks to generous private contributions and the volunteer work of several concerned citizens we have the resources to help our neighbors who are recovering from drug or alcohol addiction. The Oxford house is a safe place for recovery because it is assured that there will be no alcohol or drugs there. According to the statistics found at www.oxfordhouse.org the success rate is four to five times greater than any other method of treatment. This resource has proven to be effective and empowering for those who participate in the program. It has also proven to benefit the communities that support the program with healthy more productive citizens. Neighborhoods with Oxford houses find increased property values. If that is not enough than consider that each house is self supported and will save tax dollars. It is not a home for child molesters.

When our wealthy neighbors have addiction problems they take a sabbatical, go to rehab, get treatment, recover. What resources do we have available for our working class neighbors that can take them out of the environment of addiction? Remember Matthew 25:40 ”Inasmuch as ye have done…unto one of the least,” our attitudes toward these less fortunate members of our community really matters a lot. If you really hate the sin then please help the sinner. We must be a community that does more than condemn, we must be a community that forgives and offers assistance. We can support our neighbors who are seeking a second chance.

My Christian conviction is that I am my brother’s keeper and that we all fall short. I support the Oxford House and believe that our community will benefit by helping addicts recover. I would encourage each of you to examine yourselves and stand up for your convictions. Protest abuse and support recovery.