Success of program is proved by recovery

By Howell Dennis

CROWLEY – Robert Sonnier is a truly blessed man. His battle with alcoholism has taken him through several “highs and lows” and he has endured more than his share of hardship. His addiction has taken him from the streets of Houston to the brink of death. He credits God and the people of the Welcome House for providing the support he needed during his path to recovery.

“I probably should be dead,” said Sonnier. “I’ve seen some really tough times in my life and through the mercy of God I’m still here.”

Sonnier, 58, has been sober for four months now having graduated from the addictive recovery program at Northside Assembly of God last week.

“The people (at the Welcome House) say that they can’t remember the last person they knew who finished the program,” he said. “As sad as it is, most people leave after only a few sessions.”

On Sunday, the people of the Welcome House celebrated Sonnier’s accomplishment and his strength. After mass, they enjoyed a Thanksgiving-style meal with turkey, dressing, and all the other fixings.

“Robert has truly been an inspiration to me and everyone else here,” said an emotional Val Smith, the Welcome House chaplain. “I’ve watched his walk and his talk and they are truly incredible. He is one of the most honest, dedicated people I’ve ever known and today is his day.”

While Sonnier’s ongoing path to recovery has been compelling, he refuses to take the credit for anything he’s achieved.

“I have so many people I need to thank,” he said. “Roy Kibodeaux, Val Smith, Gil Padgett, and all the people of the Welcome House. I thank God every day for their kindness and support. When no one else would believe in me they did.”

“I also need to express my gratitude to the Crowley Rotary Club, especially Mike Francis, for supporting us.”

Though his list didn’t end there, it soon became obvious that there wouldn’t be enough room to list all those to whom he was grateful.

When speaking to Sonnier about his past, one can’t help but be impressed with where he is today.

“I spent several months living on the streets of Houston just scratching by to support my drinking,” he said. “One day I looked in the mirror and I couldn’t believe how bad the person I saw looked.”

Sonnier, who is a very spiritual man, credits God with showing him the path he needed to take to right his life.

“I tell people that AA can save your life but only God can save your soul,” he said.

Though he has made several attempts at recovery over the past two decades, he always fell victim to relapses. He openly admits that drinking was the cause of for his divorce and “several burnt bridges”.

“People need to realize that alcoholism is a disease,” he said. “Nobody wants to be an alcoholic.”

This time, however, Sonnier feels quite confident about a full recovery.

“I really believe that this is it,” he said. “I feel good, I’ve put myself in God’s hands, and I’m really happy about where my life is headed these days.”

Though Sonnier has endured much suffering in his life he is anything but bitter. He acknowledges that his fight is a daily battle but the happiness and hope he feels today is evident.

“Just to be able to work and function every day is a blessing,” he smiled.