I promised to share my life story, though at this point it only covers the first fifty years of my life. I believe it is important to be transparent and share the challenges we face and what we've overcome. More importantly, we should share how we overcame, especially if we've faced multiple challenges. Over the next few weeks I will share my "hows" for those that need encouragement.
As an introduction, I will briefly describe what I've faced. Now, I recognize that there are many others who have faced far worse circumstances than I. Truly, I have been privileged to avoid a number of issues. But I also recognize that each person is faced with circumstances that, though different from others, can evoke the same degree of pain, worry or sadness.
For me, from a toddler, I faced molestation several times over many years by different people until I was ultimately raped in my teens. I've faced ridicule, been ostracized and plotted against to the point of losing jobs and job opportunities. I've been stabbed in the back many times; each time losing loving relationships or ministry that meant so much to me. I've been heckled during speeches by hateful, jealous people who admitted their jealousy to my face before acting out their envy. Yes, I've been cheated on by men I loved and supported wholeheartedly. I've been gravely misunderstood to the point of losing lifelong friendships that I cherished for decades. I've endured blatant disrespect and insult from those closest to me time and time again. I've lost all my possessions more than once including houses, cars and land. I've had to move 8 times in three years. I've had to live day to day for more than six years, some days literally only having ten cents in my pocket with two children to feed. For over a month I lived in a home with no heat or lights with my children because the electric bill was out of control. I was diagnosed with cancer and sarcoidosis with no insurance for treatment. I could go further, but this is enough for now.
If I were to carry all of these circumstances, I could say that in my life I've faced far more bad than good. But because of God's grace I cannot say such a thing. Today, I am happier than I've ever been and have more hope than I've ever had. Life is great and I'm full of joy! The one consistent cord through all my experiences is God's love. That is how I made it. As I share more over the next few weeks, I will go into detail on how He manifested His love for me alongside these circumstances so that I would not give up but rather rejoice and be happy while I overcame. I hope it will encourage you to take heart and persevere through your situations.
