My mother moved in with my husband and me 4 years ago. She wanted to find a church to go to. We visited several churches, but just weren’t happy with any we had looked at. I remember working with Katrina Lanford at Mary Black. She mentioned a great church on Ashville Hwy. Mom and I visited Fist North. We were overwhelmed after the first visit. Mike’s message was wonderful. The next week we even attended Sunday school. We both loved it. I hadn’t been in church since I was a little girl. There was this Sunday School teacher I had (Wanda Cromer). I was overwhelmed with her spirit for Christ. I would watch her cry talking about God. It touched my heart. I loved her lessons. She taught one Sunday about forgiveness. It made me cry. Mike preached on forgiveness that same day. Again I felt like the Lord was talking directly to me. I was also taken back by the choir. My grandmother was a great choir member along with several other members of my family. I guess I get the music bug honestly. The choir sang “God is Here” that Sunday. I walked down the aisle that very day and rededicated my life to Christ. Several weeks later, Wanda Starnes asked me to take her place in the choir while she went on a missions trip to Thailand. I told mom several times, “I wish I could sing up there with all the people praising the Lord. The music really spoke to me. I especially loved watching Wanda Cromer and Mickey worship. I couldn’t read music, but I said yes anyway. What a blessing.

I worried alot about what people thought of me. I didn’t like talking about my father since he died in prison. I didn’t want people to think badly of me. I thank God now for those life blessings. I forgive my father. He had a disease. He was an alcoholic. I’m confident in myself. I talk openly about my life, especially to those who have an alcohol problem. I now know I’m a child of God. I would always try to settle things myself. I know pray for the Lord to give me direction. I’m more at peace with my life. I know now I don’t have to take on problems by myself. I have the Lord to hold my hand. I’m much more forgiving. I love my Christian family. Wanda Cromer told me one time, “Don’t worry about the churchy words, just talk with God like you were talking to me.” I’ve never forgotten that. I trust God to show me the way. I’m happy. When Wanda Cromer/Mickey Henderson/Mike Hamlet preach “Anyone can do this,” they are right. MY CHAINS ARE GONE - I’ve BEEN SET FREE!!!!!!!!! I was consumed with guilt/fear/trying to fit in. It is humbling to know Jesus died on the cross for my sins. Three days later he rose again. Thank you Jesus.