My life as I remember it began around age 5 when my parents too me to church. At Grandview Park Baptist Church I felt God’s presence and learned about Him through people who cared for us. At 12, I was given a lot of freedom and during a spring break trip to my aunt’s farm I was introduced to meth. It felt like an escape from the chaos at home. I stayed there through the summer living a carefree but destructive lifestyle. I eventually dropped out of school and continued using drugs. By my mid-teens I was addicted. Though I believed God was still watching over me, my relationship with Him faded as my choices led me farther away.
Legal trouble followed, and during my first time in jail I met Chaplain Jerry. He reminded me that God hadn’t given up on me. After release I returned to drugs and was arrested again. I trued treatment and stayed sober for a time, but without staying connected to God I relapsed. Addiction consumed much of my life through my 30’s and 40’s. Later on I entered a faith-based program and grew closer to God, but drifted again for nearly a decade. At 53, I knew I needed help.
After waiting 30 days, I entered treatment again on January 31, where God met me. This time was different. I committed to recovery through AA, church and daily time with God. These became essential to my healing. Today I am stronger than ever. I give all the glory to God, and know I must follow Him daily. I’m now becoming a member of Grace Church, building relationships, and growing in faith. Looking back I see God never left me. Even when I walked away He remained faithful. Now I know I don’t have to return to that life. Jesus has given me a new way to live, and each day I choose to stay close to Him. If my story helps even one person believe God can rescue them, it’s worth sharing. Thank you for letting me share what God has done in my life.