The Cariboo Family Enrichment Centre (CFEC) holds a free support group, for men who would like to explore issues affecting their enjoyment of life, every Wednesday from 6 to 8 p.m.
Facilitator Sam Moody says he is pleased with the response to the first meeting of the season.
"This group is about men who are seeking to change issues they have that disrupt their family life, causing grief, pain and hurt. But no one can change or heal them; they have to do it themselves."
Moody says he feels most of the issues that manifest themselves in adult years stem from early childhood trauma. The early years are so important for children, Moody notes, because they need nurturing and love, not corporal punishment.
"When a man makes a decision that he wants to change, then the change will come. No one is comfortable looking at themselves, but that's where the healing starts."
At first, men have to look at their physical condition, and then work on their mental, emotional and spiritual condition, he says, adding they have to learn to appreciate and love themselves, but mostly learn to forgive themselves.
"Everyone works at his own pace. It’s a non-threatening environment of all ages and culture; this group opens the door to change."
For more information, call Lloyd Garner at CFEC at 250-395-5155.