It's time to stop the addictions

Gary Stromberg is the author of the article "My life with drugs, rock 'n' roll and addiction" that is posted here under the Opinion tab on CNN.com. Gary Stromberg told his story of his life in the music industry and his drug abbuse. He related his experience to Whitney Houston's death, saying that "It's a pity that now, Whitney will not have the option I had."

It's great to hear Gary's story and know that he was lucky enough to get out when he did and hopefully reach others who are going down the same path. Addicts need constant encouragement and they need to hear success stories like Gary's.

Gary wants everyone to know that living a life of addiction is not worth it. What you and I may consider rock bottom, addicts do not. An addict can loose their loved ones, their job, their house, their health, and still believe that life is better while getting high. In order to stop the addiction it takes an immense amount of power and courage. Gary's story is a light that some addicts can hold onto and see what their life can be without drugs.

Gary tells us of the stories he has had on his wild ride to fame and riches. He tells us of a crystal bowl filled with cocaine that sat on a table in his office. His experience and his road travelled is the evidence in this article. We get to know his struggles and just how far he fell. He lost his job, all of his money, his home, his friends, and be blamed it on everything except for himself and the drugs.

In the end Gary was one of the lucky few who survive addiction. He now gets the gift of sobriety and life. And he is doing his best to give everyone else this gift. I believe his heart goes out to Whitney and he can relate to her life in a way I never can. I'm pleased to see this article on CNN and I hope that it will be a light for those with addictions or will help those who are close to someone who is an addict. We need to do something about the drugs in the United States, it's ruining too many lives. We are smart enough now in 2012 to know that it is not all fun and games.

Women.....are coming to a front line near you. Let's hope not.

An article in the Austin Statesman talks about the mixed reviews for female troops. The argument is over women being allowed closer to the front lines. In 1944 it was decided that women were allowed in the brigades; the farthest area from enemy lines. Now battalions are being opened up to women and they are much closer to the enemy. Some don't believe women are allowed close enough and wish that there was no ban on women in combat at all.

The fact is that men are physically more inclined than women. You honestly don't have to do much in order to figure that out. Try watching MTV's Battle of the EX's. Men will always have more strength than women and they will most likely have to help out the women in order to win. This may be carrying them on their back or even waiting behind so that the women will have an easier time and the man will use all of his strength to catch up.

In the line of combat if you are carrying electronics, equipment and 50 lbs. of water a woman is not going to keep up with a man. It would be dangerous for the whole group if a woman falls behind or they will have to make the decision to leave her behind. In training there are modifications for women and if they are out on the front lines there are no modifications. It's completely dangerous and I'm quite tired of women empowerment if you ask me. I think it's about knowing your strengths and keeping everyone safe rather than letting your ego run wild.

This article is important to read because it's about the ever changing roles in society. For women it's about rights and for men it's about serving with women. Either way it's important for both sexes.