Wow, Simion—are those words not music to a mother’s ears?
I had a similar experience with my daughter, not the child who brings me here, but who was quite difficult to raise and was once diagnosed with ODD. She never got into drugs but had other issues with disrespect and (verbally) abusive behavior in the home, although idyllic behavior in school.
After my daughter and I got on good terms as she matured, and in her 20s she was working with rebellious and ODD-type young teen girls in a group home. She called me one day and said something like “OMG Mom! Now I know what I put you through!!” She disliked the job, burned out quickly and quit within a couple years.
Sometimes a taste of one’s own medicine is the best lesson. I realize most of us who find our way to this board have children even resistant to that. But it helps to hear those positive stories and victories like you mentioned, so thank you.
I know your daughter had to work very hard to get to where she is in her sobriety. And obviously, now with your younger daughter, you have surely been down this road before and I feel for you. Bless you and I hope you’ll continue to post.
