John
He had so much going against him, even from the very beginning. “I was the product of two parents who obviously weren’t ready for me, who were addicts and alcoholics. And I know in my heart that my father has never loved me.”
John started drinking alcohol around the age of twelve, and within a couple years he was drinking heavily every weekend. By age 15, he was using meth and heading for trouble fast. When he was 19, he received a seven-year prison sentence, of which he served 3½. But his problems were far from over. All in all, John collected a handful of felony convictions, served several stints in prison for a total of seven years, and went through drug treatment “nine or ten times.” He very well could have been voted ‘most likely to fail.’ Today, however, at age 40, his outlook is entirely different: John is sitting on three years of sobriety, is taking college classes, has established himself as a respected leader among his peers, is serving as ‘house manager’ at the in2Action honor house, and is now looking at a successful future. So, what happened?
More than anything, John credits his transformation to the grace of God. Each morning during group devotions, John begins his comments by expressing gratitude to his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Looking back, he can see how God was always tugging at his heart and using his past experiences – even prison, as horrible as it was – to bring him to the place he is at now.
John also gives a lot of credit to the in2Action program. “The blueprint and structure that in2Action provides is key. I’m convinced that if guys follow the program and the suggestions, they are going to be successful.” John has lived at in2Action a little more than a year. When asked what he likes best about it, he says, “the fellowship with the guys.” He goes on to say, “I wouldn’t be sitting here today if it weren’t for the relationships I’ve developed here and the guidance I’ve got.”
Of course, it hasn’t been easy. John has had his share of obstacles and disappointments, including the loss of his grandmother and the recent loss of a job, which was very unsettling. “A lot of things have happened since I have been at in2Action which in the past, I would have just thrown in the towel; because of in2Action though, I did not even think about it.”
John longs for the day he can spend more time with his son, Ryder, age 15. Their relationship has suffered some damage over the years, but the past several months have seen significant healing and improved communication between them. John talks about Ryder with immense pride and affection. One thing is for sure: Ryder has a father who loves him with all his heart.
Recent Comments