There's just something about
a sunny summer day
There's just something about a sunny summer day that leads many of us to our
broom closet and cleaning supplies, and also gives us the nudge we need to
start shaking those musty, dusty rugs out. Now granted, we may be accustomed
to cleaning our homes, offices, or vehicles alone, but when it comes to cleaning
up our hearts and minds…we are better off enlisting the support, encouragement,
and guidance of others. God never intended or expected us to “clean up” on
our own. In fact, for the pregnant women who come to Bethany House, they, too,
have entered a new, fresh start-season.
Many of us grew up with the misconceived
idea that we should not share our weaknesses with others. Some families spend
a great deal of time making their homes dust free and sparkling clean, yet
emotions are cluttered and shoved aside like a pile of dirty clothes kicked
under a bed. Most of our residents have learned it is better to smile than
cry when in pain, and to keep a secret rather than tell the truth. When they
come to Bethany House, many are addicted to drugs, bad relationships, and
their hearts are filled with shame, anger, and deep emotional
pain. Thankfully, when they are ready to clean out the old and
experience the cleansing grace of God, they have a safe place
to begin the process.
Recently, Kandice joined our family. She
is cleaning up and discarding the old addiction to heroin,
a life of prostitution, and heartache. She describes her fresh
start like this: “Before I came to Bethany House I was
strung-out on heroin and prostituting to get my money and live.
I've used drugs since I was eleven years old and I'm now twenty-three.
As long as I can remember, I used drugs. When I found out I
was pregnant, I knew I had to do something different. Through
a counselor at a treatment program, I learned about Bethany
House, and moved in. Ever since, I've been clean and sober,
off all drugs. I even stopped smoking! For the first time in
my life I'm clean and have a new life. I have Bethany House
to thank for that. Without their help and support, and believing
in me, I probably wouldn't be here with a brand new fresh start
for me and my baby. Thank you.”
Embracing a fresh start
in life is a process that involves people like you partnering
with programs like Bethany House in love, and providing the
time, talents, and treasure to ensure that women and their
babies have better tomorrows. So let's continue showing you
care about nurturing two hearts at a time by making changes
in the lives of young girls, their babies and generations
beyond.
More Bethany House stories
Download the new newsletter