Jennifer – 2014 Graduate
My parents divorced when I was five years old and both of them remarried other people shortly after. I was hardly disciplined because of guilt over the divorce. I looked for love and acceptance through friends, which made me a follower all through school and eventually lead me to partying and drugs. Even though I grew up in church and was baptized, I was made fun of at school for talking about God. Afraid of rejection and bullying, I rebelled against church, which got me attention. I started self-harming, smoking cigarettes, drinking and using drugs. When I was in 9th grade, I had a sexual relationship with a 25-year-old man just to get cigarettes, drugs or alcohol. Eventually, I dropped out of high school and my drug use got even heavier, to the point where I was also dealing.
I heard about Mercy from an old friend who had gone through the program. I decided to apply because I finally grew tired of the everyday cycle with drugs, smoking and partying. I knew deep down that I needed help. When I got to Mercy, I was a little scared just because I had been so ashamed of God. I was afraid of loving Him because I didn’t want to go back to getting picked on for it.
When eventually I let my guard down to let God into my heart again, I felt more happiness than I had ever felt on drugs or alcohol. Also, when I started seeing the impact I was making on some of the girls lives here, I finally believed I could do that when I leave the program too, which makes me very happy. He has taught me that I am a new creation in Him! I am no longer ashamed of Him. I am thankful He gave me another chance, even when I didn’t deserve it! He has taken away the shame I used to have and replaced it with grace. At Mercy, I learned that I can do anything through Christ who strengthens me! His strength is made perfect in my weakness.
After I graduate, I am going to go home, finish school and get a job. I might go to college. In the future, I plan to be on the mission field, either in Africa or any other place God calls me. I want to tell as many people about God as I can in my lifetime!
None of this would be possible if it weren’t for the donors of Mercy. I am so thankful for the support and love they give to all the Mercy girls. Their giving has saved many lives, especially mine. And to Nancy Alcorn, you are amazing and I love you. I am proud to be a Mercy graduate.