In this pilot episode of One Iota Conversations, I interview Walter Stroup about his battle with substance abuse and his journey towards recovery. Walter shares his experiences of hitting rock bottom after showing early academic promise, seeking professional help, and the transformative impact of acceptance, gratitude, and spiritual connection. He now works in transitional living arrangements, helping others facing similar challenges. Walter emphasizes the importance of recognizing signs of substance abuse and navigating social pressures, offering insights and resources for those seeking help.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
00:18 Walter’s Struggle with Substance Abuse
00:51 Path to Recovery
01:41 Life After Recovery
02:47 Transitional Living and Helping Others
03:49 Reconnecting with College Peers
04:45 Advice for Fraternity Brothers
05:51 Navigating Social Pressures
07:05 Final Thoughts and Resources
Find Walter on LinkedIn to connect and follow his activity.
For additional background, Walter offered this note which we wrote earlier this year.
“On the 22nd of February, I celebrated seven years of sustained sobriety from alcohol and all mind altering substances. I write this post now as I merge my professional aspirations with my personal hobbies. I would like to market the benefits of sobriety. It is pretty cool. I have refrained in the past, because I worry that this will be seen as unnecessary vanity. I have broken my silence so that I can discuss the problem publicly, promoting this way of life for others. Perhaps this message will have an impact on the person who still suffers.
Most of the people that I went to rehab with have relapsed at this point. The statistics on recovery are pretty grim. But just as the angel of death passed over the Israelites, God has chosen to release me from the grips of a terrible addiction. I have faced many calamities in my sobriety, ranging from severe mental illness to being economically destitute. Nonetheless, the community of people that I have built through recovery helps me get through the dark times, making me a better person than when I started this journey. I’m now blessed with economic prosperity, a group of steadfast friends, and a supportive family.
The essential principle that I’d like to impress is the importance of taking the problem seriously. I believe that I have a daily reprieve from my addictions contingent upon a program of spiritual action. When I rest on my laurels, the malady begins to consume me. This principle has kept me strong for 2574 days. I pretty much do the same things that I did at the start of sobriety.
I keep in mind that tomorrow could be the day where the addiction consumes me again. I’ve heard countless stories of people who had everything together only for a bender to rip their life to shreds, creating the need for daily diligence. However, the way of life I live now is better than anything I could have dreamed up in my wildest imagination. Every day is a blessing. You can have the same experience.”
Thank you for sharing your story, Walter!
If you have a story to share or a brother to nominate for a “One Iota” conversation, send me note at admin@iotachapter.org.
AEDKB
JG