A word from Olivia Oden on Gratitude, United in Recovery's Education and Stigma Reduction Specialist

One of the many life lessons that I've learned is to always be gracious. Gratitude is starting my day and being thankful for the things and people in my life that, at one time, I never had.

Coming from where I've come from - a life where I had no safe space, no food security, no positive support system - for me, it's easy to wake up every morning and be grateful for the things in my life. I now have that security, safety, and support. I have my own loving family. I do not take for granted anything that I've worked hard to achieve.

While I'm grateful for where I've come, I'm equally grateful for what I get to do. I never thought having the background that I've had would land me in such an amazing position within such a committed and driven organization. Working with the community, especially in the areas of substances use disorder, prevention, outreach, and stigma reduction education, I have the amazing opportunity to support efforts and programs that weren't there when I was in active addiction. I am able to help folks navigate resources, which can be hard, and as a coalition, we are able to change policies and advocate for the voices that may not be heard.

For this, I am grateful.

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By Olivia Oden, Education and Stigma Reduction Specialist