“My parents passed away and my sister was also passing away in front of my eyes. My father got hypertension and diabetes and my mother became an alcoholic because of my behaviour. I failed to realize in my active addiction that it wasn’t just me who was getting destroyed but I was destroying the entire family,” Sonam Tshering shared.
He sought help from his friend and joined rehab for eight months in 2019. There, he learned the value of life- it starts with appreciating the little things in life. He learned to be tolerant and self-accepting and admit one’s wrongs in life. He finally recovered and could join society again, recovery has taught Sonam world is beautiful, if you are.
Sonam Tshering who was a drug addict and alcoholic for 23 years and is a recovering addict has founded Jurwa as a drop-in Centre in Paro. He was inspired to start the Centre after working with Chithen Phendey Tshogpa as an outreach worker and a counselor for almost a decade. “I started a Rehab center called ‘Jurwa-The Change’. Since I am trying to do what I couldn’t do for my family, partner, and my children. By helping others and doing good for society gave me my lost confidence in life,” he said.
“Most of the time, due to our behavior, we are ignored and abandoned. We land up in the streets gradually. People sympathized with us but they didn’t emphasize. So, I came up with this small home for drug addicts and alcoholic people so that I could give them shelter and guidance to correct their lives. Even though I can’t provide them delicious meals, at least I can provide them with three meals. I committed myself that I will help them,” he added.
Initially, Sonam didn’t have any money so, he took a loan through the Priority Sector Lending Scheme and started the Centre. Although Jurwa Centre is a tiny place, it is equipped with facilities such as a small futsal ground, basketball court, and mini café. Sonam shared we could come up with these facilities with the help of a few individuals like former Dzongda of Paro Tenzin Thinley and a few agencies and corporations.
“The first step in treatment is detoxification. We communicate with them as much as we can when they undergo detoxification. We make an effort to inspire them and help them comprehend the benefits and drawbacks of being an alcoholic and addict. How we are destroying our career and relationship as an addict. Not only are ourselves, we are destroying family as a whole. We send these people to rehab once they show signs of motivation. Joining rehab is not the end of a problem or disease, they still require support once they leave the center. “Addiction is chronic brain disease” This disease is incurable disease, the only thing we can do about this disease is arrest this disease by working out withspiritual programs and self-discipline,” he added.
“The biggest gift I got with my recovery and being clean for 13 years was the trust of the community. Jurwa’s priority is not money – we want to really help. Despite the struggle to remain afloat financially, we offer service for free to those who can’t pay. The door of Jurwa will always be open for those who want to quit and start their life again. Further, we will work for as long as it’s needed to help all – both in present and future – regain one’s respect and place in society.”
Sonam shared he is thankful to few individuals like Nazhoen Lamtoen for legality, and innovation in Bhutan for organizing such a beautiful program, where he learned about entrepreneurship and financial management. Further, he is grateful to Uma COMO, Proprietor of Ghasel Construction (Tashi Tshering), former ED of Loden Foundation (Madam Tshewang Tashi), Karma Academy, Paro, Youth Development Fund, Dawn Hale, Dylan Kresh, Clarie Ballantine (USA), Doctor Dorji Wangchuk and Dasho Phuntsho Wangdi for their prologue and unconditional love and support to Jurwa.
“Lastly, I would want to say that ‘once an addict, always an addict’ is untrue and that we are all capable of recovering and becoming productive members of our families, communities, and society. All we need to do is self-acceptance that we are addicts and we need assistance. Miracles do happen and recovery is possible,” he concluded.
All in all, the journey of overcoming addiction and reclaiming a meaningful life is a testament to the resilience and strength of Sonam. Through perseverance, support and personal growth, once struggling individual has transformed into a beacon of hope and inspiration for others drug addict and alcoholic person. Sonam Tshering’s story serves as a reminder that with determination and right time, recovery is possible.
By Rinzin Dema
