Read Stories 

March 02, 2009

I was reading a quote that other day that said in God’s eyes, "if anything matters, then everything matters."  And so, along with you in your God-appointed place, we quietly serve, in simple tenderness and unseen kindness – to the glory of God.  It all matters. 

We had a full house and a full schedule this past month and once again we prepared for a joyful celebration as three of our residents had completed the program’s requirements.  What we so earnestly work towards, as well as program completion, is that they come to know their Lord and Savior in a personal way. 
I want to share with you, our supporters, a personal story – this one is Sonya L.'s – the Mission Drop-in Centre referred her to us.

"Before I came into Lydia Home I was lost. I was merely existing.  I was broken down and in despair.  I was sick and tired of being sick and tired.  I knew I needed and wanted to change but was afraid to try for fear of failure, rejection and abandonment – not to mention being just plain lazy." 

I lived an easy life by using others to fill my void which was lack of intimacy, acceptance and belonging.  I was also stealing, manipulating and conning others for food, money, gift certificates, etc. to support my life in addiction.  I was unable to deal with life's challenges and how I felt about it all.  In order not to feel insecure, afraid, or worried I would self-medicate.  However, I could not get away from the guilt, the shame, and the anger.  I had no belief in myself and blamed everyone except myself – my parents, my husband, the system, all were to blame.

At Lydia Home I learned how to believe in myself through faith in God.  I have accepted the Lord in my heart and his gift to me, Jesus Christ, my Saviour.

I also learned that I do not have control of others and I am not responsible for those who hurt me.  I am responsible for myself and my own healing and recovery.  Instead of blaming others and giving away my power, I accept those who hurt me are sick as well and I put them in the hands of the Lord to take care of.  Then they no longer are my excuse to abuse.

I have also learned that my upbringing, whether positive or negative, healthy or unhealthy, helped me develop my own patterns of thinking + feeling + behaviors.  This pattern was passed down from generation to generation and I learned that what I do today has a ripple effect on at least four generations.  It is up to me to break that vicious cycle of abuse and be the beginning of a strong, healthy and positive people of faith.

"I believe I can" is what I believe today and the Lord will help me along the way with all that I need.  I learned that I need to continue having a teachable spirit and to allow God to work in me and through me.  I want to share with others His love and peace and joy.  I am so grateful for Lydia Home and what it has done for me."

That's all for this time around – talk to you next month!
Frieda Buchner and staff