By: Nikki Iwule, MS, NCC, Primary Therapist and Alumni Representative at The Renfrew Center of Orlando, FL
Artwork by Renfrew patient Lily.
It can be a helpful reminder in recovery to know you are worthy of recovery. Even when it’s hard, even when it feels like the work is endless—you are worthy of recovery. Let this be a reminder to you that hope exists, and that better times can lay ahead if you do the work.
If you’re struggling, look to the words of a Renfrew alumni. She writes:
Change – like the Ocean ebbs and flows
It laps at the sands of uncertainty
The sands whose many grains reflect all the doubts within
Muster courage and step into the waves
Give them the trust of your soul and let them cleanse you
Feel the power and remember that the waves carve the most spectacular sights
Let the Ocean form you into what is true and wash the illusions away
-Denise (Renfrew Center alum)
Now, I want you to remind yourself that you are enough. No seriously, go write it in your journal or look at yourself in the mirror and tell yourself that you are enough. That your pace of recovery is enough. Remember, while the days may seem long while you’re in the midst of recovery, the payoff, the food freedom, and the self-relationship this journey can bring are well worth it. The ocean will ebb and flow and, no, recovery is not linear, but this is your reminder to lean into your courage and not lose faith.
In hope and healing, my friends.
Nikki Iwule, MS, NCC is the Primary Therapist and Alumni Representative at The Renfrew Center of Orlando, FL. She started working as counselor at The Renfrew Center of Florida in July 2019, and in 2020 transitioned into her current role. Prior to joining Renfrew, Nikki completed a yearlong internship working in the field of eating disorder treatment at the partial and intensive outpatient levels of care. Nikki received her both her Bachelor’s degree and Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Mercer University. Nikki is a passionate advocate for recovery, and hopes to help people see how deeply capable and worthy they are in a way that fosters long lasting self-acceptance, self-connection, and recovery.
