Thelma's Story...
This is my story. First and foremost I want to begin by thanking God, without Him this story wouldn't be possible. My favorite verse is , “All things are possible through Christ which strengthens me.” Phil 4:13.
When I came to the Sheepfold we were asked to learn a verse a day. It took me a month to learn this one, and it gave me strength daily. When I first came to the shelter, I was devastated. I thought nothing could be worse. One month into the program I discovered what a blessing it was to be given this opportunity.
I was 17 when I had my first child. The relationship was abusive. Things continually got worse and I asked him to leave. When he did leave, he stole my son and went to Oklahoma. He threatened to kill me if I came near them, and I believed him. I got married again at the age of 21, another abusive relationship. We had 3 children together. When I left him I went to stay with my mother and decided it was better for my children that they stay with her. After that, I started using drugs, and during that time, I married again and had a baby girl. Once again it was an abusive relationship. When we divorced my daughter stayed with her father. Then I had another baby girl and that is when I came to the Sheepfold with my young daughter — 1 child out of 6. That was my life without God.
My experience at the shelter has been overwhelming. I have had a chance to improve my education, learn how to parent my daughter, and grow in the knowledge of Jesus. I also got my driver's license reinstated, which was a miracle. At a court date I was able to get my contact information to my eldest son. My son called me after 21 years apart. We now write letters and have exchanged photos. I have also been able to reconnect with my father after 20 years, who is dying if cancer. I'm glad to be able to see him and share the Gospel with him.
I want to thank everyone at the Sheepfold for this opportunity to learn about Jesus and His love for me. Thank you for giving me a new start. God bless you all!
- Thelma, Sheepfold graduate