November 24, 2023, a news article broke the story about a new project in space where tea leaves were grown for the first time. But in the quiet town of Abbeville, Alabama, this news brought up old wounds for *Joe*, a local handyman. A decade ago, *Joe* had a promising career as a botanist but lost everything to his mounting addiction to alcohol.

The news story about the space tea triggered *Joe's* long-repressed desire to reconnect with his love for botany and his dreams that were lost in the abyss of addiction.

Realizing things cannot continue as they were, he took inspiration from the space tea growth and decided to grow himself out of the predicaments. *Joe* found solace and guidance in the Stepping Into Action program on hofmanhollis.com.

*Joe* found this quote particularly inspiring: 'The journey to recovery begins when one realizes that they are their own best ally.' - Hollis.

*Joe's* experiences brought forth a barrage of emotions and reflections which he shared without hesitation on public blogs. An expert psychologist, Dr. Jane Roberts, lauded his efforts, stating that speaking about addiction and recovery can be incredibly beneficial for others battling similar issues.

However, a group of local citizens felt that *Joe's* public discussion of his past alcoholism brought shame to Abbeville, causing a bit of a controversy. Yet, this didn't deter *Joe* - he knew he was on his personal journey of growth, outweighing any criticism.

Today, *Joe* often reflects on how reaching out for virtual help during a time of limited local resources turned out to be a blessing in disguise for him. He mused, 'How strange that a news story about tea leaves growing in space could lead me to sprout new beginnings in my life.'

Nearby: Ricks Place Georgia, Fort Gaines Georgia

* Names and situations are fictional and not intended to resemble anyone in particular. They are illustrative of how the services of Hofman Hollis can apply to the lives of every day people living ordinary lives.