Christian
I was 20 years old when my substance abuse started and my addiction continued for the next ten years. There was some effort during that time to end my addiction. I went to six programs to try to end my problem. None of those programs had the lasting effect that was needed. My addiction took a tremendous toll on my life, and eventually led to being incarcerated. While I was in jail, I got ahold of a book by Pastor Mike Casey from The Bridge, it resonated with me and stirred up an interest in taking further steps. There were other people filling out applications and the time so I did too. At the time the program was full, and I couldn’t get in. I had to wait and keep checking to see if any spots had opened up. Eventually after about two weeks a spot opened, and I was able to get in.
I have been in the program since October of 2021, when I first entered the program, I wasn’t aware that there was a culinary program. Some of the guys in the program suggested that I look into it. It was a nerve-racking experience for me because I had no prior background in cooking and didn’t know my way around a kitchen. I got past my nerves and decided I was going to give it a shot. Little by little I started to learn. I started to get the hang of things and really get good at my craft. The culinary program is 12 weeks long and includes online lessons and testing these newly learned skills in hands-on practical tests. To finish the culinary program, each student must plan, create and prepare a meal and pass the final exam. I started the meal with a spicy Cajun caviar dish for the appetizer. For the main course I made patty melts, Charleston red rice, and scallop potatoes. And then finished off the meal with a bread pudding inspired dessert. I’m happy to say that I passed my final. The culinary program proved that I can step into something new and master it. It was a wonderful experience for me.
When it comes to what I am going to do with my newfound culinary skills, my wife’s family has a deli that may be useful in the future. But for now, I knows these culinary skills will come in handy at home, since I live with a bunch of picky eaters. As of now, I have a couple months left in The Bridge program. The program has had a drastic impact on my life. I have no desire to live the way I did before I came to The Bridge. The Bridge has done what those other six recovery programs could not. I am beyond thankful for that. Upon graduation, I plan on getting back into construction and taking it a day at a time from there.
Changing one life at a time…
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