The other day I found someone’s iPhone while on a hike. In my head there lives a little pig, part of my conscience, left over from my days of debauchery. That voice quickly stood up and said: “Fuck Ya! What luck! You just found 1,000 dollars! Keep it you dickhead!”

But….

   The good conscience, now stronger, after some time spent sober, won the battle and returned the phone when the owner eventually called. To add to the challenge of this situation, which for many people would seem trivial… when I met the owner to give him his phone back, trying to be kind, offered me a bottle of wine as a “thank you.”

   Again, that little piggy voice in my head, for a split second, wanted to accept the fermented grape drink... “It’s your reward.” the voice said. Without much thought, although being somewhat embarrassed, I blurted out: “Oh, that’s very nice of you but I don’t drink.” Then I think he, the bearer of the gift, was embarrassed, which lessened my embarrassment. “Well, you’ll get some good Christmas Karma” he said. “So glad I could help, it’s a terrible feeling losing your phone.” I replied. The little piggy voice, that only I could hear said, “gimme that good karma baby, wooo wooo!!!”Clearly I’m not quite at Buddha level gangster quite yet, these things take time.

   If you, or someone you care about is struggling with addiction or mental health, please don’t give up on them. It’s going to take time and patience. Understand that by being there for them and not giving up on them you plant a seed in their hearts. With time, love and kindness, you can help them to heal.

Happy New Year!