Addiction and Money

Most of us think of money as a powerful, effective tool. We like it, we need it, we work for it. We use it for fun and necessities. But, consider this . . . can it ever be harmful?
For addicts, alcoholics and their loving families, many times money can not only be a detriment, it can be deadly. Sometimes I think of it as the Great Eraser. Arrested? Money pays the bail, fines, lawyer . . . erase . . . problem gone. Marital problems? Money pays the lawyer, buys a new house to live in, new car to make you feel good . . . erase . . problem gone. Business difficulties? Money pays off disgruntled clients, business associates, various creditors and others breathing down our necks . . . erase . . . problem gone.
Reality check: Problem not gone. Problem just postponed or moved to a different venue or person.
The only time money is an alcoholic, addict or their family's friend is when it is used to treat the real problem, the addiction, and not used in imaginary attempts to erase it.