as for IDUs returning to religion,
let me quote from my paper:
"Young IDUs are not enamored of mainstream religion, but this is not necessarily the case among older IDUs. Some of the 'old hippie' IDUs seem to have returned to traditional Christianity as a way to find rootedness and make sense of their life choices, especially those in recovery (i.e., methadone treatment)."
To summarize the findings of my modest little study, here is the conclusion:
"The causes of intravenous drug use do not necessarily have a spiritual or religious component, but certain trends in attitudes about religion were evident in my admittedly limited survey.
IDUs typically have a high degree of spiritual uncertainty, tending toward apathy or even hostility, compared to the population at large. But along with this spiritual anomie comes a high degree of tolerance and fluidity. IDUs are somewhat nihilistic by nature, as evidence by their participation in such a taboo activity. I believe this nihilism influences their attitudes toward religion and spirituality. The absolute certainty associated with faith is not a part of their world view; the immediate reality of the next fix eclipses thoughts of a judgmental supreme being. 'Whatever,' the popular expression signifying resignation and apathy, comes to mind in summing up the typical IDU attitude toward religion. However, I believe the “whatever” precedes the opiate habit, and is perhaps shaped by his religious upbringing, or lack thereof."
I have an upper respiratory ailment that's been going on for a week. Some opiates would be the bomb right about now.
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