Her Story

Submitted by (f - age 21)

"I have a lot of baggage and scars from the past. My mom got divorced from my dad when I was six. Even though we had a good childhood visiting my dad every other weekend, by teenhood, he started becoming more of what is typically referred to as "a dead-beat loser." He also met my "evil" step mother who we have come to good terms with today, but back then, it was basically her or us, and he always chose her and his happy new step and half children. Meanwhile, at home, my little sister and I were growing up in a nice community with our hardworking and loving mother. She still doesn't know to this day, but my sister and I were being sexually abused by our stepfather. It started when I was about 12 or so and continued until I was about 17. It's over now, but the damage was done. From the end of my junior year of high school until freshman year of college, I struggled with absolutely everything– drinking, drugs, promiscuity with guys. depression/cutting, and more. I was headed down a deep and dark path and I was getting there fast.

Finally, I got to college. After a particularly awful night alone, I got a call to join a Christian small group. I had signed up for one just to get a silly prize at some college fair and I STILL believe that it was GOD that I even went! The following Monday, I went to the small group and it honestly changed my life forever. Two of those members are my two best life friends today. God completely transformed everything, healed my wounds, and gave me life. I was baptized that October, and today, though it is not always easy, I am doing amazing and I am strong and happy. I have started and led a great team of girls at my church and I have been blessed through the years. I love God and I am eternally grateful for what he has done in my life and for what he will do."

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