The disease entities of addiction and mental illness are characterized by relapse and recidivism. While not a necessary part of the healing process, they are a force to be accepted and dealt with.

Many recognize that the fate of the untreated addict lies in institution, jails or death. Unfortunately, the same fate awaits the un or undertreated mentally ill. While many can and do maneuver in and out of jails and institutions, none, as yet has managed to return from the grip of death. For some in the program of recovery, the long term goal of a clean and sober transition to the next dimension is the ideal.

Pride Institute Florida recognizes the value and importance of the concepts of relapse, recidivism, death, progress not perfection and the ideal of transition to the next dimension in a clean and sober state. As such, the program has two memorial plagues that are prominently displayed in our “Zen” relaxation/meditation area.

The first plague (left) is dedicated to the memory of those alumni who transitioned as a result of continued use of abusive substances. These brave individuals tried and in many cases tried again to follow the path of sobriety but were unsuccessful in their quest. We honor their memory and recognize their efforts. We hope that their departure may not be in vain but serve as a reminder of the lethality of our diseases.

The second plague (right) is also a memorial plague that honors the memory of those alumni who transitioned in a state of serenity and sobriety. These individuals fought the battle and stayed the course, transitioning to the next dimension having achieved the ideal of sobriety to the end. We honor these people and hope that their journey provides a message of hope to the new comer that it can be done.

As you contemplate your situation, as you wrestle with your demons, which plague would you want you name to be on at the time of transition? Whether you start the journey and stay the course or transition in the attempt, Pride Institute will provide you with the tools to make the journey easier and happier. You have nothing to lose in trying our program. If you try the program and want to return to the former way of living, the return is easy. Simply pick up the first ……