Is addiction, in any of its many forms, a part of your family's story? Are you fearful that it might be? Do you know someone who is living this reality every day? Jean Heaton is a force wrapped in grace and truth who is bringing light to the experience of family addiction. She is a person who gets this reality and offers the hand of hope to everyone in this place. She's also seeking to raise awareness and reduce the stigma, particularly within church settings.

On this episode of Bear the Light, we talk about:

* The unexpected way our light can shift when a new part of our story emerges

* The particular challenges a parent faces when they suspect their child may have a problem

* The symptoms of addiction you might be noticing in someone you love

* The first honest prayer Jean uttered that helped her feel less alone and start to move forward

* What it means to "work" a 12-step program and how this applies to all of us

* What the 12 Steps have in common with the Ten Commandments and the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius

* How everybody's got somebody affected by this

* Jean's heart for more open conversations and safe spaces to be found in churches so families feel less alone

Connect with Jean on her website and on Instagram at @jeanheaton64.

Connect with Christianne on Instagram at @christiannesquires or by subscribing to the Light Notes email list.

And consider applying to be a guest on the show! Fill out the guest application form here.