Mary Killian is a grateful alcoholic and addict in long-term recovery. Originally from the Bronx, New York, she devoted herself to drugs and alcohol for many years, getting clean in 2001 and staying that way. So far, so good. Mary started blogging and taking WordPlay classes a while back. Writing things down was a terrific idea. It still is. Mary currently lives in Charlotte, North Carolina—in a blue house with turquoise shutters. She is friendly and enjoys a high quality rap session. In her free time, she likes to type, play the piano and eat cheese. The Roustabout Heart: Adventures in Recovery
Check out Mary’s website here: www.marykillian.com
Mary was featured on a podcast for The Recovery Revolution with Chris Aguirre.
Listen here: https://soundcloud.com/klen-and-sobr/1602-mary-killian-high-wire-girl
Hear Mary speak about addiction, recovery, and her book on Bubble Hour:
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/bubblehour/2016/02/08/special-guest–mary-killian-author-the-roustabout-heart
Check out Mary’s first two podcast episodes here:
https://soundcloud.com/high-wire-girl-pod/ep-01-i-really-want-to-do-this
https://soundcloud.com/high-wire-girl-pod/ep-02-a-nervous-girl
A Sample of Mary’s Writing
Excerpts from
The Roustabout Heart: Adventures in Recovery
by
Mary Killian
Perfection is a ridiculous goal. I have never been perfect a day in my life. Why would I assume this moment will be any different?
It’s a relief to embrace my flaws as part of what makes me who I am. I’m not always paying attention when folks tell me stuff. I jump to irrational conclusions. I lose my temper with the kids. And good Lord, how I take the world’s inventory!
I don’t have to like my shortcomings, but I shouldn’t beat myself up over them either. Acknowledging that they exist brings me one step closer to making some positive changes.
I can be a work in progress and still enjoy happiness.
I am worth loving.
I tell myself that this is true. I may not have believed it at first, but I do now.
I am worth loving.
These words are beautiful. I say them out loud and make them my own.
You really need to try this, even if it feels weird. Just keep at it—until the message sinks in.
The people I’ve met in recovery have always helped me appreciate that I’m right where I need to be.
It’s reassuring that no matter where I am, there’s someplace I belong.
I can bring that feeling everywhere I go.
I thank God for my useless years. I really do.
Each memory has become a valuable resource.
In sharing the worst, I can hope for the best.
I ask the Lord for a smooth heart. Mine gets banged up on a regular basis. I’m rough on my equipment, and God has a way of making all things new.
When I lose my focus, I can always begin again. Every day. Every hour, if I need to. Every minute, even. There’s no rule that says I can’t.
Starting over with a clean heart is a great feeling.
Hearing other people share their stories makes my story less shameful. Listening when they discuss their feelings makes my feelings more accessible. Being willing to learn from every experience makes my experiences more worthwhile.
God equips me with so many resources. Appreciating His endless love fills me with a strength I didn’t know I had.
from The Roustabout Heart: Adventures in Recovery
To purchase Mary’s book,
please click the cover to be taken to Amazon.com for purchase.
What people are saying about The Roustabout Heart…
“I just love this so much!! I haven’t been able to put it down since I started reading. Mary is hilarious, real, and so relatable. She so accurately describes so many of my experiences throughout addiction and recovery. Brilliant.”
“What a fabulously written book. Truly inspirational for those who battle addiction or life’s curveballs. Mary’s raw honesty is heartwarming. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who needs help putting things in perspective.”
What Mary says about WordPlay
“I didn’t realize how wonderful writing could make me feel — about myself, my memories, my ability to learn and grow as a person.
Maureen has helped me focus my energy and thoughts. With useful tools and techniques, plus the loving support of my writing group, I am able to put my stories on paper and share them. I feel capable and qualified to call myself a writer. What an exciting time in my life!”