Drug Court Graduation

I was invited to give the graduation address at Suffolk County Drug Court a week ago. It was an interesting experience. There were about 20 graduates present but the room was filled. There were well over 100 people, family, friends, counselors, and support team members. The 20 graduates had the choice of jail or getting clean. These graduates succeeded in meeting all the requirements necessary to graduate. They showed up in front of the Judge, Honorable Jerry Asher of Huntington, NY, every week. They got tested and received counseling every week. They may have received counseling more than once a week, I'm not sure.

The diplomas were handed out by the probation officers who dealt with each of the graduates. The three probation officers spoke personally and with pride of each grad. Some toed the line right from the outset, others needed more prodding. There was a real love for the graduates expressed by the probation officers.

My talk was well received. I felt honored to be part of the rehab of these 20. My prayers go out to them for their continued success on the road which will certainly not be any easier than what they've already been through.

I am truly happy and feel blessed that my own children have escaped this side of life.