My Story

As I stared at myself in my sister’s mirror after a major come down, I could hardly recognise the gaunt and sickly reflection that was staring back at me. I stood there reflecting, thinking about how my life ended up this way, going from a fit, healthy young man with a good job, steady income and a good relationship to losing everything, living alone on the streets with nothing but the clothes on my back.

I needed to make a change in my life quickly before things got worse.I knew I had to separate myself from everyone that used and dealt Meth, I had to keep myself busy and preoccupied by going back to work and going back to the gym. To steady my mind and thoughts I went back to composing music and expressing my feelings and emotions through rap and song writing. To strengthen my spirit and reconnect with positive people and my culture I joined our local kapa haka group which was so powerfully overwhelming that I broke down in tears during one of our waiata.

I then went on to study the certificate and bachelor’s degree in social services to get more understanding about myself and to move in to a role where I can support others through their addiction issues.

The first few months will be hard but only as hard as you make it, be true, stay focused and remember why you’re on your journey of recovery.

Mauri Ora – T. F.
Meth free for 14 years