It’s hard not to think, “What if?” sometimes, and for me it’s, “What if I had never drunk?”. Throughout my life I’ve used drinking to connect with people, but over the last ten years, it got worse, to the point where I was drinking from the time I finished work until I went to sleep. Life was just a day-by-day routine, and there was nothing really positive.
Then in February last year, a drunken altercation led me to prison, which was a huge reflection period for me. When I came out in November I had nowhere to go, so I stayed in a hotel using what money I had saved. But at $500 a week, I urgently needed to find somewhere to live. I was referred to The Mission just in time, because the week after I would have been on the streets.
I came to Te Pā Pori while I waited on the list for permanent housing. From day one, I could tell this was a good place for me. And that next day, in my first Whakaaro mō te Rā (Thought of the Day) meeting, I found something very special, and I haven’t missed a day since. Hearing other people share their experiences and success stories keeps you strong to work towards what you want in life. Eventually, Cam, one of the Kaiwhakarite (staff) asked if I would lead a session, and the rest is history. Now I help plan our meeting themes and present topics, especially around addictions.
I’m also part of the Pā ‘Service Squad’, a new initiative focused on serving the community. We’ve done things like have a barbeque in front of Te Pā where we give away free sausages to the public, and help with community garden initiatives. It’s a great buzz for the guys to be giving back, and it’s part of our reconstruction journey as we redefine ourselves as people who belong to our community and who want to grow.
I’ve also been able to restart one of my passions, art, and that’s become a big part of my new routine. It keeps my mind busy and lets me be creative. I enjoy making pieces as gifts, and I recently presented art to both The Mission and Good Bitches Baking to thank them for what they do for us.
In my time here, I’ve seen new manuhiri surprised by how good this place is. They don’t have to scramble for food, warmth, or companionship anymore, and that constant feeling of desperation goes away. It’s given me a place where I can be safe and grow as a person, and that’s completely changed my life’s direction. I’ve found a clear path to the future, and I’m now studying for my Certificate in Health and Wellbeing, so I can work in Drug and Alcohol programmes. As part of my qualification, I’m doing 10 hours a week supporting the team at Te Pā Manawa in Petone too.
Everything I’m doing here has helped me remain sober for 18 months now. I have a life goal to reach 82 years old like my father did, and to make sure that I do as much good as possible in these last 15-20 years. My experiences in life, and my studies, will help me support others, and I’m happy to be able to show people that there is a way forward.
I really appreciate what The Mission and its supporters are doing for people here. Years ago, I knew Father Des Britten through my work, but now coming here as a manuhiri I can see why it’s so successful. People need a place like this to reset and move from a negative situation to a better one, and to learn the skills to keep moving forward once they leave.
I will forever appreciate The Mission donors who make this all possible. I can assure them that, thanks to their help, the majority of people who come here will change their lives!
