I recently attended a professional conference whose keynote speaker was Amy Chua, author of Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother in Philadelphia, PA. Sitting in the audience beside me were dear colleagues who had mentored me as a teenager in recovery at Cedu. Behind me was a mentor from my early 20s when I lived and worked with handicapped children in an extraordinary community, Camphill Special Schools in Pennsylvania.  

I realized that these mentors and friends of more than 20 years were my own Tiger Mothers. They loved me before I was able to love myself, and they helped me discover my potential. Each one helped shaped who I am today, and I have followed in their footsteps by helping men and women create a path to their own personal recovery. 

I am so grateful for the lesson that my mentors taught me so long ago - the knowledge that I always have the power to choose the life I want despite any fear or insecurity I may feel inside. I have shared this lesson so many times since then, and it is as powerful today as it was when I first encountered it.

Having spent many years now as a mentor myself, I know that taking the time to look, listen, and love someone else can transform not only a human life but also his or her family and community. Even when loving someone isn't easy, even when that person doesn't want to be loved by someone else. 

No one said recovery was easy. But together, with the right support, we can overcome our fears and choose to live with strength and courage like the mighty Tiger who embodies these qualities. I am honored to walk that path with each of you and grateful for those who have led the way. 

Susan Stader, MS, LPC, LCAS