"I will not stand for the idea that any soul is irredeemable," the Republican governor said at the candlelight vigil for those struggling with and those who have perished because of addiction. "Everyone has the ability to fight back from this disease, but we have to give them the tools to do it."
Some of the comments from the public were negative. I'm proud of my daughter for commenting the following:
Laura Diana It's really very sad how many negative comments I'm reading. This man took the time to have a candle lighting for the millions and millions of people who suffer from addiction. And as an addict, I have the right to say that none of us "chose" this way of life. It was something that just happened.
There are so many people who have lost their lives, their loved ones, or even themselves to drugs or alcohol. Had I known the first time that I got high that my life would turn into something so terrible I can't even put into words, I would have NEVER done it. It wasn't until years later, when I realized that years had gone by and saw the horrible place it led me to, that I realized that I had a problem that was beyond my own control. And at that point it, it's not a choice anymore. It took a lot of SUPPORT, a lot of strength, a lot of love, commitment, a lot of tears and heart ache, a lot of loss, pain, and suffering for me to regain control of myself. But that's what it took. That's what gave me a "choice."
Without people like Governor Christie, people who are trying to make a difference and give people hope, we have no choice. And we have no hope. He is trying to express how insane this has become and he is trying to make a point. Everyone deserves a chance to get help for themselves or their loved ones. Everyone deserves a "choice." But some people don't get one. No one should be turned away when they finally choose to get help because making a decision like that for someone like us is very hard. And if we make that decision and are denied help because we don't have enough money, or our addiction isn't "bad enough," I'm sure that will be the last time we try. I have no problem identifying myself as an addict, because I am an addict and I always will be. However, I am also a PERSON. I'm a daughter, a sister, an employee, a student, a friend, a libra, an artist, and a bunch of other things.
So for people who want to rip on this man for trying to do something good, something that matters, shame on you. This isn't for you, and I'm truly saddened that you felt the need to post your negativity on something so beautiful. I may be an addict, but you're just ignorant. If you have nothing nice to say, then keep your comments to yourself.
And to everyone else, if you know someone who is suffering from addiction, make sure they know you love them, and they know that they will have your support. It means everything.
Thank you Governor Christie, for trying to make a difference. For trying to help.
Laura Diana This was absolutely beautiful. I wish I could have been there
Laura Diana You looked beautiful 💕 And it's because of you that I am somebody today. You are my strength. I love you so much💕😊
Donna Pacicco DeStefano Laura Diana I love you so much. You did the hard work. I will always support you. You can count on me forever💕
Here is a video of the Vigil: