REFLECTIONS | JOHN CASSAP

Title

What John Cassap taught me about redemption after addiction and prison.

The Story

John’s lifelong battle with addiction led to jail and broken relationships, but through lived experience and volunteering, he now helps others while continuing his own journey of understanding.

Opening

One of the most engaging conversations I’ve had. Right from the start John’s energy was different. Unapologetic, honest and owned his past and his mistakes. We got right into it from the start as if I’d known John for years.

What Stayed With Me

Owning who you are, who you were and not being afraid to make mistakes. John had made a lot, and seemed to be someone set on a path to share his experiences to help others, without any ego at all.

The Bigger Reflection

When I brought up my own opinion about John’s lived experience, and that I believe you should have gone through similar experiences to be better at having advice, he pushed back. John knows who he is, accepts who he is, and what he has done. 

A Line I Won’t Forget

“Just accepting who you are”

To truly accept who you are is difficult. I find it difficult. I’ve met a lot of people I’ve found there is a different energy to people who’ve accepted themsleves from going through difficult times.

Closing Thought

I do feel privileged to have strangers sit down and share their most personal stories, to connect on a human level. I took a lot from John, a lot to think about. He felt ahead in the life game of acceptance. 

After the interview he stood up, held his arms out and said “Givas a squeeze Dan”. 

It felt like John saw exactly who I am.