REFLECTIONS ON OUR JOURNEY

by Peter Boeschenstein; President, Gray Wolf Ranch.

Peter Boeschenstein

As we celebrate our two-year anniversary at Gray Wolf Ranch, I have been reflecting on our journey. I remember that when we first opened, a friend commented that "Now the real work begins." I wasn't exactly sure what he meant at the time, because we had been working nonstop for the past three years putting the project together. But somehow I knew that he was going to be right. Boy, was he ever!

It has been an amazing two years for me personally and professionally, and I wouldn't trade it for anything in the world. Except for my own recovery, I have never worked so hard or felt so strongly about anything in my life. I am really proud of Gray Wolf and what we have been able to accomplish here. Watching the courage and heart of the residents who have come through our program has been truly humbling for me. I feel honored to know them. They have set the tone for Gray Wolf and have been a huge part of making it what it is today.

We have certainly been challenged and strengthened by the continual process of making our facility and program the best it can be. With a success rate of over eighty percent, we feel that we have become a very effective resource, combining conventional treatment methods with unique components such as our wilderness treks and volunteer activities. We owe our success to the very talented and dedicated staff that have come to work with us at Gray Wolf, allowing us to provide our residents with the highest quality care and the greatest opportunity for recovery.

Thanks to all of you--residents, alumni, families, and referents--who have trusted us and shared your hearts with us. It has been a true honor and a privilege for us to work with you. We will continue to work hard and stay dedicated to our mission: to provide a natural, safe, and supportive setting for beginning a structured progression toward a sober lifestyle.