Introduction

This book is written in the belief that many Native substance abusers suffer because their cultural heritage is being swept away or because they have lost contact with it. While Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous provide wonderful leadership to millions of people, they do not deal with the pain that can arise when cultures weaken and die or when people are cut off from their heritage. While not seeking to replace tools of recovery, such as Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous, this book deals with the fact that people often lose the ability to cope when their cultures are under attack. The resulting pain can lead to substance abusers. If strengthened, however, the traditions of a people can help people regain their sobriety.

Example of Handsome Lake

The example of Handsome Lake, a Native leader who lived many years ago, demonstrates the power of tradition. Handsome Lake was an alcoholic near death who, at the last possible moment, regained his sobriety and invented a method that helped the Iroquois people overcome their alcoholism and restore their culture.

Strategy and Purpose

This strategy was made up of two parts (1) reaffirming and strengthening the culture and (2) living a sober life while undoing past wrongs. This book is written to how Handsome Lake's inspirational example can help today's Native people who seek recovery from substance abuse.