I found myself reciting this passage many nights as my comfort and my shield, because I knew that God would guide me out of the situation I was in.

 

Not too long ago, I was happily married to a man that shared my spiritual beliefs and eventually two beautiful daughters. We were financially stable and prosperous in ways that are uncommon to a young couple just starting out in life. As in any marriage, there were ups and downs, disagreements and misunderstandings, but nothing could have prepared me for the turn of events that would catapult my whole life into uncertainty..

 

I became a victim of domestic violence. I was physically bruised on several occasions, hiding the scars and markings with makeup, doing my best to keep it a secret from our families, friends and church. However, one day everything came to light when I opened my eyes in a hospital bed, feeling like a ton of bricks were sitting on my face. The doctor walked into the hospital room, shaking his head in disbelief and disgust. At that moment, I knew I was not going back.

 

My daughters and I moved into the Parks at Wynnewood Apartments, utilizing many of the services offered at the Buckner community center, including the domestic violence women and children counseling of Family Place. Johnny Flowers, director of community based services at that time, encouraged me and God began to use him to minister hope and purpose into my life. After volunteering for several years at the community center, an opportunity presented itself for me to join the awesome work of Buckner. I felt like a wounded healer. God took my past life of tragedy and created triumph for the children and families of Wynnewood. He makes all things beautiful in His time. God’s passionate love for me led me to my life’s purpose.