I was in treatment for a year, but in all that time and all the treatment centers I worked through, Wingate was by far the most impactful experience. Wilderness as a whole leaves a nasty taste in most peoples mouths, and it breaks my heart that people in other places didn’t get the experience Wingate gave me. At Wingate I had an experience like no other, I get emotional talking about it, I can feel it so deeply rooted in my heart and in my soul. In the Escalante Staircase, found something that I can only describe to be a deep understanding of who I was and who I will grow to be. I was in awe of myself, amazed by the things I had gone through, I had grown aware of my stunning resilience. I morphed from a hate filled teenager with lots on her mind, to a compassionate and well spoken individual who not only knew her worth, but saw others as well. I grew fond of the simplicity of existence, content to be myself, which included my flaws. I made connections that were so incredible, and I keep them strong to this day. I realized that I had never been truly happy, because once my resent for my situation wore off, and I was able to embrace the Wild Women inside of me, It was euphoric. Nature heals, it brings people who otherwise wouldn’t bat an eye in each others direction together in a remarkable way. My Inner child is now at peace, and I have found myself constantly reminiscing on my time at Wingate. I wish my words could bring my experience justice, but it simply can’t. Being in the same situation as everyone in the group really hit me, we were all dirty and all wore the same clothes, ate the same food, slept in the same line. We were forced to simply exist with each other, none of my relationships will come close to the bonds I formed with my group, as well as my relationship with my family, it has never been better. I’d like to say that I’m so genuinely proud to see people finding the courage and strength to voice their experiences in their treatment journey, and I believe that each individual company should be thoroughly investigated. Ive been in bad facilities before, and it broke my spirt, never would I wish that on anyone. I do believe that Wingate (And places where others had similarly positive experiences) should be praised for their ability to productivity utilize Wilderness Therapy. I definitely recommend pooping in the woods. 10/10 experience.
-A.P-
Comments