Summary

In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read speaks with Gina Economopoulos, a first-time author and former nun, about her tumultuous journey through health struggles, the loss of her mother, and her battle with alcoholism. Gina shares her experiences of finding faith, becoming a nun, and ultimately navigating the complexities of addiction and recovery. Her memoir, 'Shake the Dust Off Your Feet and Walk,' serves as a testament to resilience, hope, and the power of community in healing. The conversation delves into the importance of self-discovery, the impact of grief, and the ongoing journey of recovery, emphasizing that no one is alone in their struggles. Check her website out here: https://www.ginaecon.com/

Takeaways

Gina's journey reflects the struggle of losing foundational aspects of life. Health issues shaped Gina's identity and perspective on life. The loss of her mother at a young age led to a deep search for meaning. Gina's experience in the convent was both a spiritual journey and a struggle with addiction. Relationships can complicate recovery, especially when addiction is involved. Gina's path to sobriety involved confronting her past and embracing faith. Writing her memoir was a cathartic process for Gina. Gina emphasizes the importance of community and support in recovery. The game segment highlighted Gina's insights on personal growth and decision-making. Gina's story is a testament to resilience and the power of hope.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Gina's Journey 02:28 Health Struggles and Family Dynamics 05:28 Loss and Grief: The Death of a Mother 08:27 Finding Faith and Becoming a Nun 11:19 Love and Loss: The Story of Danny 14:20 Descent into Darkness and Seeking Help 17:54 The Struggle with Alcohol in the Convent 21:04 Writing My Story 25:11 The Journey of Self-Discovery 26:55 The Importance of the Steps 29:18 Deprogramming and Reprogramming Faith 32:43 Spiritual Awakening in Recovery 34:02 Facing the Pain of Alcoholism 36:31 Finding Freedom in Recovery 38:00 The Common Denominator of Pain 38:46 The Journey of Healing and Faith 40:31 The Ongoing Process of Recovery 44:06 Tools for Managing Life's Challenges 44:48 Shake the Dust: A Game of Choices 51:24 Retrieving Sanity: Living in Gratitude #alcoholicnun #recovery #addictionrecovery #faithwounds #healingjourney #loss #grief #triumph #overcomingstory

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