When hikers attempt to climb Mount Everest, they never do it alone. They rely on Sherpas—experienced guides who have successfully navigated the treacherous, icy terrain before and are willing to help carry the heavy supplies. In the steep, perilous climb of addiction, we tried to carry our own heavy backpacks in total isolation, and we almost froze to death on the mountain. Recovery brings us into a fellowship where we quickly learn a life-saving truth: we were never meant to carry our loads alone. Furthermore, as we experience a spiritual awakening and begin to heal, we are called to become the guides for others. There is a profound spiritual paradox at work here: when you bend down to help someone else carry their heavy burden, your own burden miraculously feels lighter. Your painful past is not a waste; it is the exact credential that allows you to uniquely help someone who is suffering exactly like you used to. Serving others is what locks in our own freedom. | 
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