You would never guess by the way Darren Waller speaks that he is just 27 years of age. What he’s been through and overcome in his young life has given him uncommon wisdom. His experiences with addiction are a cautionary tale he openly shares with others in the hopes he can keep others from going down the wrong path or turning their lives around.
For people who have struggled with substance abuse, times like this are exponentially difficult. As the saying goes ‘Idle hands are the devil’s workshop.’
Whether you are a religious person or not, the concept is the same. For people like Waller, it’s important to keep one’s mind and body busy with the right things. Really, it’s important for everyone. It’s just far more dangerous for him.
For that reason, he is just the person to whom you should listen for advice on how to get through times like this.
For many in the U.S. right now, going out and doing the things we would normally do is not an option. You may have to work from home, your kids may be out of school, the bars and entertainment venues are closed, and events canceled. And if you’re in a metropolitan area, you have been advised to stay at home. It can be a difficult time and simply doing nothing is not an option.
This is where Darren Waller comes in. He wrote a piece for the Player’s Tribune that has some great advice in it.
For the mind:
Maybe this is the perfect time for self-reflection, to cultivate your creative talents. This could be your opportunity to invest deeper and more meaningfully in your relationships — the important ones, where things might have fallen into disrepair. Enjoy the company of your family. In today’s world — so busy, bright and demanding — our greatest fear is sitting quietly with (and listening to) ourselves, because we are afraid of what we may discover.
And the body:
Pro tip: Core workouts can be done anywhere, anytime — without any equipment. As far as training goes, my core has been my main focus, along with push-ups and resistance-band training. This has also been a great time for me to dive deeper into stretching and foam-rolling in ways I haven’t before.
And those who struggle or have struggled with addiction:
In rehab, almost three years ago, I developed a prayer and meditation routine that I’ve been doing during my self-isolation. (I use the Insight Timer app.) I also watch some pastors online who have been holding morning prayer calls and reading brief messages every morning and night. (Shout-out to Michael Todd of Transformation Church and Dharius Daniels of Change Church!)
Since support-group meetings in my area have been canceled, I’ve been listening to audio recordings on the Narcotics Anonymous Speakers app. It’s one of the ways I’ve continued to discipline my mind while I’m stuck at the house. I’ve been trying to keep myself stimulated physically, mentally, creatively and spiritually, so checking in with the app really helps on that front.
Waller goes on to say he has gotten more into his music (D Wall) and he listens to podcasts, watches movies, and reads books. In addition, he reminds us to be thankful if you have others in your household to be shut in with. After all, many people have no one. So, be kind, and be gracious. For instance, he put out a challenge to not complain for 24 hours.
But he said the one message he would like to send to everyone it’s this:
Remember who you are. We are strong, resilient people who are capable of displaying love, kindness and patience in the most violent of storms. Remember all of the tough times and uncertain situations you have endured. We’re lucky to still have life.
Like I said, uncommon wisdom. The Raiders got a good one in Waller.
You can read the full article in The Player’s Tribune here.
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