Erica, First-Responder
Erica: Artist Statement
“Compassion is the most powerful tool you can have when it comes to healing addiction of any kind.” – Christopher Kennedy Lawford
The background of my painting represents the pain, isolation, anger, and shame experienced in addiction, conveying the heavy darkness of this disease. By contrast, the heart in the middle represents love. To me, compassion is an act of love. I chose bright colors shining through the heart in the center of this painting to convey the light of love shining through addiction, showing the power of compassion to shine in times of darkness and pain. After every experience of caring for someone struggling with addiction, whether through a professional interaction in the hospital or in my personal life, I hope that I have been able to show them kindness and love.
