Today, I would like to take the opportunity to introduce myself. My name is Cherish, and I am a woman that loves the Lord and her family. Several years ago God began to provide opportunities for me to share His love with others through my story.
What kind of story do I have? One that is all too familiar, but rarely spoken of. I was one of those children behind closed doors without a voice. You know the ones... Everything looks okay on the outside with their family, but if you were a fly on the wall you would realize otherwise.
They're the children that avoid going home at all cost, because they have no idea what awaits them when they get there. These kids know that their families are different, and that is why they rarely ever have friends over. We are the children that wear a fake mask in public for fear that someone might learn of our story. Yet, we so badly want out of the violence.
What kind of child am I? I am the child of alcoholic parents, and I was only able to survive it with God. My hearts desire is to encourage youth, and to give them a hope that they can only find through Jesus Christ. It is a lonely place behind those closed doors at home, but you don't have to be alone anymore.
If you are one of these children that are desperately looking for answers, and for the meaning of your life then listen up. God created you and loves you very much! He does have great plans for your future, but you have to join His team. Life is meaningless without Him, and you will have a very difficult time overcoming your circumstance without Christ.
You can join God's team today! How might you ask? By simply giving Him the steering wheel of your life and trusting in Him. You can do it right where you are now. Close your eyes, ask God to forgive you for your sins and ask Him to come into your life forever. If you prayed this prayer today the angels in heaven are rejoicing!
Having God in your life is the first step in finding hope. He is there to talk to when you have no one else. Find a Bible and begin to get to know Jesus today by reading the book of John. My thoughts and prayers are with you as you begin this journey today, God Bless!
After 15+ years of knowing you and this is the first I've heard this story from your mouth (in this case fingers) and I must commend for being so transparent.
ReplyDeleteAnd while I am not trying to detract from your belief that Christ saved you, I will say that in my eyes and in my memory, your story is also a triumph of community. People who knew you felt compelled to provide you with a sense of family-- the one we now know you were longing for-- regardless of what they observed at home, regardless of what they knew of your religious beliefs. People did this because you were an inspiring girl with energizing optimism and good intentions.
I too have moved away, but I am constantly reminded of the kindness in that community-- your story being one of many similar stories. The roots we share have impressed upon me a set of values and a sense decency that surpass religious credo, political affiliations and international borders.
I will end this comment by applauding you for reminding everyone that the sense of family in that small community is comforting, especially to individuals looking for their place in the world. Too often I hear negative remarks from our peers, and I am pleased to hear we share a similar love and appreciation for the people and resources of that community.
I miss you, friend! Keep letting the Lord use you to encourage people!
ReplyDeleteHope healing can begin in your readers!
ReplyDeleteCherish I must say you my dear have grown up to be a beautiful loving woman and a very loving mother
ReplyDeleteAm very proud of everything you have accomplished so far in life
Love Aunt Dawn
I love you cherish, my how you have grown...I love how you write and I knew you had it in you all along...thank you for letting us in on such a beautiful masterpiece...you! I found myself thinking, crying, remembering, rejoicing, and praying over your words...what profound words to your life and to us readers, thanks for facilitating such provoking thoughts. I love you cher-balls.
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