Author, speaker and former ESPN Producer Jason Romano’s dad took him to a football game when Jason was 10 years old.
It was the first time Jason realized his dad was an alcoholic. Jason tells the painful story of growing up with an addicted parent, how he battled for the relationship and how he finally learned how to forgive.
Our past can haunt our present and future as people and leaders unless we’re willing to deal with it.
Welcome to Episode 171 of the podcast.
Guest Links
Jason on Facebook | Jason on Twitter | Jason on Instagram
jasonromano.com | Pre-Order Live to Forgive | Sports Spectrum Podcast
Links Mentioned
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3 Insights from This Episode
1. Creating barriers doesn’t mean hope is lost
Anyone close to an addict has struggled with not wanting to give up hope that the person can change. That desire can cause continuous hurt and disappointment, but there comes a time when you have to protect yourself from the abuse. Does it mean you’ve given up on your loved one? Absolutely not. But barriers are a very healthy thing and can actually do more good for everyone over time.
2. Forgiveness and Reconciliation are two different things
Choosing to forgive doesn’t mean you’re letting someone off the hook for hurting you. Forgiveness is an instant choice that actually frees you, not them.
Reconciliation involves both parties and is the harder, slower process that, if able to happen at all, takes time.
3. Acknowledge the pain then find empathy for what’s broken
The first way to find healing is to allow yourself to feel the pain rather than pretend it doesn’t exist. Remove the mask and work through the hurt.
Once you’ve recognized your feelings, consider what the other person is going through. Finding a place of empathy for their brokenness will move your heart towards forgiveness.
Quotes from This Episode
CNLP 171: Jason Romano on Growing Up With An Alcoholic Dad and How Your Past Can Impact Your Present and Future Click To Tweet CNLP 171: Jason Romano on Growing Up With An Alcoholic Dad and How Your Past Can Impact Your Present and Future Click To Tweet CNLP 171: Jason Romano on Growing Up With An Alcoholic Dad and How Your Past Can Impact Your Present and Future Click To TweetThe 5 Million Download Giveaway
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Next Episode: Robby Gallaty and Rabbi Evan Moffic
Jesus wasn’t a blond haired blue eyed suburban teacher, but sometimes we treat him as though he was. Through two very different lenses, Robby Gallaty, an evangelical pastor, and Evan Moffic, a Jewish rabbi, look at the Jewishness of Jesus and share how knowing Jesus’ original context can draw you and your church closer to God. Their thinking will also challenge the shallow and empty faith so many Christians experience.
Subscribe for free now and you won’t miss Episode 172.
