Hellbent and Hellbound

       I don't know where to even start with this. I don't necessary want to sit and write about people, or make this some sentimental blog about life, love, or the problems of the world. With the exception of writing about the fucked up shit that goes on in my little asshole of the world, I try to stay positive about things.

       That said, I had a very good friend of mine stop by the house yesterday. He's been a friend since I was 12 years old and we skated together into our 20's. He moved away, but we've always stayed in contact. He's a stand up guy who's always had my back, the type of guy who would put himself at risk to save a complete stranger. The problem, the guys had a serious drug problem since high school.

        I've had my own periods of drug use, but for what ever reason I've never gotten addicted. I've always been a "weekends only" drug user. I want to add here that I don't consider weed a drug. I know there's people who'd disagree with me, and I honestly smoke weed about 5 times a year anymore, but lets be real here people. That shit ain't any worse than alcohol. 

       So I've tried it all, I still enjoy an adult beverage from time to time, but I stay away from most drugs these days besides advil and the occasional puff-puff pass. 

     My friend however has a problem with the needle. He was actually the first person I ever saw shoot up. We were with a group of friends when I was around 18 or so. We were doing normal 18 year old shit, drinking, smoking weed, talking shit and skating. However several of these guys got into slamming shit into their veins. I know I'm not the only one who's had this experience. I know no one probably cares. I know that for whatever reason, skateboarding, punk rock and all the other trappings of that lifestyle tend to attract the self-destructive people of the world. But I'm going to say here I hope my friend gets the help he needs. He stopped by to do some laundry before he checked himself into a sober living house. It was the least I could do for the guy. Even though he's been a junkie he's the most stand up junkie I've ever known. He's never stolen a thing from me, he's never asked for anything and I could tell he was ashamed. 

              I don't have kids, I haven't been blessed with children for whatever reason. My wife and I however are always there for our friends and because we're stable, and have jobs, a home, and the rest I feel like we are a rock that's there when those we love need us. That makes me happy some how. I've lost too many friends that I loved dearly, I don't want to loose anymore. 

I hope my friend gets help, I hope my friend gets clean. If he doesn't, or needs help I'll be there for him, but I really hope he does. Out of the three people I saw shoot up for the first time, he's the only one still alive.