We've all heard the phrase, "Just say no" when it comes to drinking and drugs, but I can't help but to ask the question, "Why"? I think understanding why I would say no is most important in our decision whether or not to use drugs or drink.

Monday night 3 recovering drug addicts answered that question in their own way. Ritch shared with us that he had lost his wife and kids due to his drinking problem and that is why it wasn't worth getting started in the first place.

Trina shared how she had to hit bottom and hurt the people closest to her before realizing that she was controlled by something that she no longer had control over.

Chris shared how he lost his job, his kids, his house, and his wife and ultimately ended up at a friend's house sleeping on a mattress on a floor.

These are not fake or made up, these are real people with real stories and real consequences and their message was loud Monday night..."It is simply not worth it."

So, the challenge isn't simply to just say no, but to know that it is simply not worth starting in the first place. It won't make you cooler, happier, and it may actually ruin your life.

We are all searching desperately for something to fill us and drugs and alcohol will only seek to provide a temporary solution to a problem that needs an eternal answer. Chris shared that it was only when he knew that it was beyond his strength and asked for God's help that he began to heal. If you are in that place where you are hurting, trying to fit in, or simply trying to be someone else please know that drugs and alcohol are not the answer.