When *John* Wakefield of Kensington View, Maryland, stumbled upon a news article from July 02, 2022, he had no idea how it would change his life. The article detailed a massive drug bust in a neighboring state, and for most, it was just another news story. But for *John*, it opened an unexpected door to his past.

*John* had struggled with substance abuse during his early twenties, a history he had hidden well. Seeing the news, memories of his own close encounters with law enforcement began flooding back, triggering anxiety and sleepless nights. He thought he had left that life behind, but the resurgence of those memories showed otherwise.

Desperate to regain control and seeking to quell his inner turmoil, *John* turned to the internet for help. He came across the Stepping Into Action program offered by Hofman Hollis. Starting to follow the materials, *John* found the actionable steps and guided support essential for tackling the issues he thought were long buried. He often recalled one specific guiding principle from the program: 'Reflect on your past not to dwell, but to learn.'

Experts in the field caution that addressing long-buried issues can be extremely beneficial. 'It is vital to face one's past to avoid repetition of the same mistakes,' said Dr. *Karen* Morris. However, some professionals argue that dredging up buried memories can lead to more harm than good unless handled cautiously. 'An improperly guided trip down memory lane could result in severe mental distress,' warned psychologist Dr. *Sam* Jefferson.

In the end, facing his past and seeking online help was the best decision *John* made. Although finding something nearby was nearly impossible, accessing a program online gave him the lifeline he needed. Confronting the shadows of his past ultimately led to a brighter future. It's a reminder that no matter how difficult, seeking help can pave the way for healing and growth.