In Terry’s own words…

First of all, I would like to say that I am not sure where I would be in my life, spiritually, mentally or physically if I were not a resident of Seattle’s Union Gospel Mission’s Women and Family Shelter. I am an alcoholic in recovery. My life had become totally dysfunctional and spiritually bankrupt. I could no longer hold a job. I had lost my home. My health was failing. My husband of over 20 years had divorced me and my family had little hope.

I was desperate. I knew I had to make a decision on where to go and what to do. After praying and asking the Lord for His guidance and direction, my heart was led to the Mission. The blessings have been great and many.

Because of the staff and other caring supporters, the Mission has been a new beginning for so many women like me. The Lord has shed His glorious love and light on this place. It brings an opportunity of hope, encouragement and motivation to the women by supporting our desires to cultivate and establish lifelong goals. Especially for those who in their past did not have the ability or had not chosen –until this time– to consider themselves worthy or the ability to be a productive, healthy-minded and spiritually uplifted person again or perhaps, for the first time in their lives.

I am grateful to be enrolled in the Oaks Program. It teaches and encourages us to strive to be women of integrity, to love, forgive, to be patient of others and to find our own personal relationship with the Lord. The classes are taught by women and men who have dealt with struggles and hardships of their own. They share their knowledge, experiences, and challenges of making choices and decisions. Revealing to us as role models and encouragers that it can be done.

The life long process of healthier living may begin here if our heart so desires. We can learn and grow as much as we dare. We can then take what we have newly established or reacquainted in our hearts and minds to become responsible, more stable and productive women. We can take all this with us into the community.

Each morning I wake up at the Mission, the Lord opens my heart and changes my life a little more. I am so very grateful for the special friends I’ve made and all of the blessings I have received from the Lord. I have new hope and joy in my life.