Who am I?

Written By Maggie

​     It’s noon. Monday, January 15th, 2018. I just got to the café. Upon my arrival, I greeted Mr. Herb and we got into a conversation about my goals for the very near future. Tomorrow I will be turning in my paperwork application to be a Church Army Candidate. How far I’ve come! But I remember. Addicted to heroin, hopeless, barely surviving... not really wanting to survive at all. I found recovery and found this café. And in turn I found a home, a family, and Jesus!
 
     I remember just before Christmas 2017 last year, I was newly clean and still living in a halfway house. But I got to be present for Andrenna’s being accepted as a Candidate. I remember wanting that for myself so badly. I didn’t think it was even possible for myself. I mean, I didn’t even know if I would be strong enough to stay clean this time or not. But I know now that I am never alone - I always have the Lord. I didn’t know I was going to make any of this happen, but I knew I wasn’t going to give up. So, I showed up. Time and time again. I followed my heart, knowing that Jesus himself put this call on my heart. It hasn’t been easy. I’ve stumbled. I’ve fallen flat on my face. But I’m never alone.
 
     I’ve always looked at life as a series of obstacles I have to overcome before my life can truly start. First, I have to stay clean. First, I have to get stable. First, I have to go fight for my daughter and get her back. First, I have to become a Candidate... And THEN my life will start. I was wrong. These obstacles ARE my life. This is my story. And it is one of strength and redemption. I am so blessed to have such amazing people around me, let alone supporting, loving, and believing in me. I am so grateful for the ones who have gone before me, the ones who I look up to, the ones who show me the way.
 
     My life today is so far from where it was less than two years ago. I am clean. I have a home. I have a Job. I have a family. I have a purpose. I have a future. I have Jesus. I never dreamed my life could be so good. Even in the midst of the obstacles my life is wonderful. Things are happening in me and through me! The time is NOW! I’m loving every moment of it and for once, I can’t wait for what my future holds!
 
So much love,
Maggie
UGC