On May 21, 2023, a news story about the closure of a beloved local coffee shop in a neighboring town took the media by storm. While most people saw it as a minor event, it had a profound impact on *John*, a resident of Bryans Road, Maryland. This unanticipated closure reminded *John* of a difficult chapter in his past, when he struggled with alcohol abuse and lost his job at a similar establishment years ago.

Triggered by the news, *John* felt a surge of anxiety as the memories of his past resurfaced. He had worked so hard to overcome his demons, but the article brought all his suppressed emotions flooding back. Feeling overwhelmed, *John* decided to seek help through the Stepping Into Action program he found at https://hofmanhollis.com.

Through this program, *John* began a journey of self-reflection and healing. He followed the exercises and guidelines meticulously, finding solace and strength in the structured material. One quote from his counselor resonated deeply with him: 'Healing isn't linear, *John*; it's a journey with ups and downs, but you are moving forward.'

As *John* worked through the program, he encountered conflicting expert opinions. Some experts believed that such triggers were essential for acknowledging and addressing past traumas, while others argued that immersion in past wounds could be detrimental. Despite the controversy, *John* found that revisiting his pain, coupled with the support he received, was crucial for his growth.

Concluding his journey, *John* reflected on how vital it was to access help. While there were few resources nearby in Bryans Road, the online Stepping Into Action program proved to be a lifeline. It was a challenging path, but one filled with immense personal growth and newfound resilience.

*John*