Being abused as a child by an uncle (an aunt’s husband) from the time I was 3 until I was 12 left me an emotional wreck. I did not talk unless it was required. I kept to myself. Books were my escape. I ran away from my mother at the age of 17 and came back here to SC to live with my Grandmother and Uncle. Freedom! Or so I thought. I was involved in staying out all night, drinking, sex. No surprise that I became pregnant. Not being married, I gave up my child. I married 6 months after the birth of my baby. I knew my husband would keep me straight. We fought a lot at times. He was not a Christian either. I began doing whatever I pleased…taking trips, coming home whenever I felt like it, etc. Severe depression set in….and I knew I needed something I did not have.

My self gratification had to stop or I was on a complete downward spiral. Linwood Harris invited me to First North. I accepted, mainly just so he would hush. Like him I am a people pleaser also. I accepted Christ into my life a couple of years ago and am a better person for it. I love coming to Church, especially the fellowship and the warmth I feel when I am around other Christians. I am better able to cope with problems. The depression had been taking it’s toll on me. I could not take medicine, because it made me worse…so I was suicidal. I praise God for His gift of unconditional love. He has shown me how to love….not just take.