After 16 years work in the field of drug rehabilitation, we have seen the fulfillment of many objectives, many young people freed from drugs and many families restored. In this time, about 60 thousand people have passed through the RETO centres.
All this success, inspires us to go forward to greater usefulness towards those who come to us every day seeking help. Obtaining official and social recognition is the fruit witnessing to the changed lives of hundreds of young men and women, who funtion today in our towns and cities. Some of them have been totally reinstated in society and others carry on by helping within the RETO association and its centres — ex-drug addicts effectively helping drug addicts.
* * *
I feel great satisfaction that RETO continues with increasing purpose since the time it all began in my home sixteen years ago. There can be no doubt that the inner strength of RETO, based on Christian faith, using the Bible as a guide, without prejudice concerning color, race, religion or ideology, has been the secret that enables us to see thousands of people, individual lives and their families, overcoming their problems day by day.
To serve without being disrupted by desire for personal gain has been one of the most difficult battles in our struggle, not only on the part of the founder, but for all those who carry responsibility in RETO. Learning as we go, we made many mistakes and some have done wrong. However, day by day we are improving the structure of the program, so that no one will be be able to personally benefit, except the one who wants to leave the pit into which he has fallen.
I don't consider myself the founder of RETO though I was given this title. The true founders are those who from the beginning have battled like true men and women of faith, overcoming difficulties along the way. This centre is unique, I believe, in that the leadership – I prefer to use the word "servants" – are basically former drug addicts. This is very important, but we also appreciate the part professionals play in the program. Above all, our faith does not waver concerning the plan of God for all mankind. The future of RETO is in extending a hand to the one lying in the dust. Our Motto, "To Be Whole-hearted Christians", moves us forward to do the perfect will of God. This is all we have to do and I can see no wrong in continuing this way.
We want to do everything posible to irradicate the cursed drugs that deceive so many. We have to offer the best in order to fill the vacuum in the heart and minds of men. If that is not filled, they will look for other kinds of drugs, more rebellion and violence will result. There will be more gangs of young people, without a reason for living, wars without purpose, and an infinite number of other evils. In RETO, we have found the eternal answer. It is vital that we change our character, that children learn to love their parents and the parents their children, that we forgive and ask forgiveness. We are confident that society can change, but in order for that to happen, we must put the teachings of God into practice. We have to go beyond the drug problem.
There is much more to be said, but not at this time. At the moment, only this — there is hope!
Forward RETO! Thanks to all! Take heart!
Ray, 2001