Got to thiking about this. It's sort of like a restoration of a very rare bike;
Very difficult. Very frustrating. Makes you mad as hell. Truthfully, often times it's never completely finished or done the way you would have liked...
But, when it (you) are up and running (OK- hobbling), you can begin to realise that you're a part of a very exclusive group of true survivors. No one but people who have been through similar things can even imagine. It's not flashy, but you can take pride in your accomplishment. Yeah- it's not just drugs. I truely believe a lot of it is in your head and attitude. You'll know that you're one tough SOB. It's a medal you keep in your sock drawer, but you'll always know it's there.
Re God, allow me to quote one of my favorite gospel songs;
He may not come when you want Him,
but He's always right on time.