posted May 16, 2008
The definition of addiction is as follows: the state of being enslaved to a habit or practice or to something that is psychologically or physically habit-forming, as narcotics, to such an extent that its cessation causes severe trauma. Continuing to engage in a behavior, or use a substance, despite negative consequences or threat of negative consequences.
The recent "round-up" at Finley Stadium was another blow for the good guys. This appears to be a continuation of the investigation involving former Hamilton County Sheriff Billy Long, and involves at least one local elected official.
Just another example of the negative consequences brought about by chemical and behavioral addiction. Former sheriff Long was directly involved in facilitating cocaine distribution, which allowed him to feed at least one behavioral addiction - money. He, as with your run-of-the-mill heroin junkie, has given up his career, reputation and freedom, just to feed that monkey on his back. Why? Why on earth would anyone risk losing so much for what, in the overall scheme of life, appears to be so little?
In the local newspaper they listed Tennessee government officials who had recently been arrested, tried and convicted. Each have lost so much, again, for so very little.
With the arrest of Mr. Franklin in Wednesday's round-up, came an opinion piece from Roy Exum. Mr. Exum wrote, "To see John "Duke" Franklin Jr. handcuffed on TV, like some common criminal, was absolutely nauseating." Which was exactly how I feel anytime I see anyone in handcuffs, or in the morgue, as a result of addiction. But then Mr. Exum concluded his piece with, "We must strive to find those who donʼt stumble, who are above reproach, because our lives depend on it."
On this statement I feel the need to add. I believe we must strive to find those who may have stumbled, but who have gotten up. We must strive to teach, to instill, honor and personal responsibility. We must strive to find those who are willing to admit their faults, those who have admitted they are powerless over....whatever, and their lives have become unmanageable when they engage in a certain behavior. Those who recognize they are not above the law - man's or God's. And those who are not above anyone, but who are human and are willing to do their very best for society.
With all of that being said, those who are guilty must be punished to the fullest extent of the law. They must face the consequences of their actions. Not in some "country club" prison. My hope and Prayer is that while they are incarcerated, they will find some way to give back to society when they are released. I pray that they learn and heal. That they recognize and admit their shortcomings, and will use their knowledge for the greater good. May the God of their understanding be with each of them and their families.
Steven Adams, PhD, DDCS
Hixson
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