2. The Cycle of Rage and Recidivism 1. Everything is okay on the surface 2. A problem occurs that is not resolved 3. Negative feelings arise that are not processed or addressed 4. A decision is made to feel like a victim

3. 5. You cover to deny your feelings with anger 6. You decide to take your feelings out on others 7. You think about what you will do next 8. You begin to take negative action The Cycle of Rage and Recidivism

4. The Cycle of Rage and Recidivism 9. You act out in a negative way 10. You feel guilty and promise yourself that you will stop 11. You again deny your feelings 12. And again you feel everything is okay, but its not

5. My Life on Drugs Empty bags, expired license plate tags, Rent overdue, electrical too Soot covered spoons, emergency rooms, fevers and chills, loss of social skills………………That was my life on drugs Stealing and lying, family home crying, Money all gone, nothing to pawn Fear, depression, compulsion, and obsession, God hears my prayer, Let the connection be there………….That was my life on drugs Holes in my arms, burglar alarms, here comes the heat, Cop car, back seat. Handcuffs and jail, no O.R. or bail. Feelings of impending doom, cheap motel room Friends dying of AIDS, peeking out window shades. No spirituality, can’t face reality. Waiting to die, afraid to try And saying all the while, I’m not in denial I JUST NEED A GOOD REASON TO STOP!! By J. Mike Bidell