In this deeply moving episode of Tulsa Talks, we meet Russell Roland, an addictions counselor and social activist who was born blind. Russell’s story isn't just about overcoming adversity—it's about choosing love, purpose, and healing, again and again. From navigating a world not built for him, to guiding others out of addiction and into identity, Russell teaches us the strength of active listening, empathy, and radical acceptance. This is more than a conversation—it’s a lesson in how to see with your heart. Humility – Russell lost his father at 14 and entered what he calls his “angry blind phase,” but never lost the will to try. Redemption – Rejected by his first university dream of becoming a Spanish teacher, Russell found a greater calling in counseling. Power – With a master’s degree and a story of perseverance, he now leads others through addiction recovery with honesty and strength. Being – Russell doesn’t want to be your inspiration—he wants to be seen as human: a man with struggles, purpose, and worth. Mercy – He offers grace to his clients, helping them break free from shame and rewrite the story of their past. Abundance – Former clients are now his coworkers—proof that healing can multiply when shared in community. Witness – Russell leads by listening, not telling—modeling the power of questions that unlock a person’s own truth. Sovereignty – Though blind, he sees people more clearly than most—choosing to look past the surface and into the soul. Reconciliation – Through pain, Russell has found purpose. Through trauma, he helps others find freedom. Completion – His heart for others reflects the love of God: “I choose to see beyond the addiction, beyond the past—I choose to see the person.” #HealingWithPurpose #BlindButNotBroken #AddictionRecoveryJourney #RadicalAcceptance #LoveOverAdversity #EmpathyHeals #ListenToUnderstand #PurposeInPain #IdentityRestored #GuidedByGraceBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tulsa-talks--6590488/support.

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