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“Yee-haw!” – The Potter’s House Goes Whitewater Rafting!

The Potter’s House, Atlanta Mission’s campus in Jefferson Georgia, is home to a recovery program for men battling addiction. Fifteen of these men, including two counselors, had the opportunity to go whitewater rafting last weekend at the Ocoee River in Copper Hill, Tennessee.

For most of our clients, this was the first time they had ever been whitewater rafting.

Many people, especially addicts, often feel Christianity is boring. They may feel like life without drugs is not fun. This is because almost all of their memories of having fun have drugs or alcohol attached. However, having positive habits and hobbies are essential for their long-term sobriety.

In addition to enabling our clients to create good hobbies, outdoor activities can be very therapeutic, while being able to enjoy a sober life. Being in nature can help all of us to relax, reduce stress and promote a sense of wellbeing. Participating in group activities can also allow us to build community, and reduce loneliness and the feeling of isolation.

While these men were floating down the river, rafting, paddling, riding the bull and yelling, “Yee-haw,” all they could say was how much fun they were having. On the ride back to campus, they were exhausted and most of them were quiet. When they got out of the van, some of them said, “That was the best time I’ve had since I’ve been sober!”

It is important to incorporate outdoor activity into therapy and recovery. For many, being surrounded by nature is also a time when it is easier to sense the presence of God. Paul says that “For since the creation of the world, God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made…” (Romans 1:20).

Written by: Jeoson Thomas & Andy Peck, Counselors, Atlanta Mission’s The Potter’s House