Box of Shame: A Memoir of Addiction, Survival, and Forgiveness

In this brutal and raw recounting, author Anita Ball exposes her lifelong, hidden secrets, hoping to sever the stigma of addiction and mental health issues. Anita’s childhood was set in Canada’s peaceful countryside. Carefree country living was her solace, a bright, happy place amidst darkness at home that left her feeling powerless. When her family moved to the city and her only source of joy was gone, rage grew, and she went on the attack. Self-harm was a secret escape and alcohol became the perfect weapon, a sin banished from her parents’ Christian home. By the age of 14, Anita carried shameful secrets of abuse, trauma, and rape. A hidden affair with booze had begun; her saving grace. Encased in a tall, glistening glass, came the first kiss of champagne, and she knew this was the start of a deeply intimate relationship. Her broken spirit was soothed by the illusion of confidence, beauty, and courage. The secret affair later turned against Anita, bringing her deeper into a world full of shame. Trapped and in despair, suicidal thoughts became a daily meditation.

A turning point is set in motion just in time, and she seizes the opportunity of sobriety, surrendering control. Sobriety brought her what she never thought possible - a place in the world. Healing, forgiveness, and a daily sunrise became reality to a girl who never believed herself to be worthy.

Inspirational and moving, Box of Shame journeys through Anita’s desperation and traumas, to conquering fears and finding self-acceptance. This emotional voyage will not soon be forgotten.