What's the possibiity?

[PuppyFluffer]

Do any of you know anyone who chose to take personal responsibility for a lifetime of really messed up behavior later in life?  Someone who finally made a change?

[bcblondie]

My Father in law. He ran off with some woman when my husband was 9. Serious alcoholic. I guess he sorta hit rock bottom and lost everything. And then he saw my MIL again... 15 years later. She said she'd take him back but he'd have ot completely clean up his act. No drinking, get a real job, buy a suit and come back to church, commited, none of this half-^*&^* crap. And  he did. I honestly didn't believe it would happen. I was of the impression once a cheater alwyas a cheater, and alcoholism is a serious addiction! But he did it and never looked back. They got remarried 2.5 years ago and things are going well. I was seriously shocked...

[Mosaic]

I'm not sure if this is exactly what you're looking for, but I know one who may fit that description. He was a drinking, drug-taking, law-breaking perpetual juvenile for several decades until he found God at almost 40yo. He admits he caused a lot of trouble and a ton of heartache, especially for his family members. Now he doesn't drink, doesn't cuss, and instead spends time doing ministry. I kid you not, talking to him today you would NEVER guess he was ever anything other than squeeky clean because his conversion was true, real, and deep. It's been about 8 years and he hasn't gone back, nor does he have any intention of doing so.

I also have a relative who admitted to racism that teared apart and destroyed her family. She took responsibility for decades of hurt and brought everyone back together about 6 months before she died. Granted, I don't know how "changed" you can be while on your deathbed, but she did have a big change of heart and tried to make things right.

That said, I know of a lot more stories that don't end up that way. Making a change after decades of doing wrong is the exception to the rule, I think.

[PuppyFluffer]

Thank you for the inspiring stories.

I ask because I have hopes of someone I know making a huge change in attitude and behavior.  I am not foolish enough to believe it will definitely happen but I am cautiously hopeful.

I had a very honest conversation with her a few days ago - like REALLY honest.  I said things that have been facts about her behavior for 30 years.  I understand that she told a third party that I was right and that she does not want to be the type of person she has been.  This will be a hard change for her but I hope she does it.  Life is pretty short when you really think about it.