Crystal O.

Growing up, I was a shy child who depended on my mom a lot. I’ve always cherished my relationships with her and my siblings. However, most of the time, I was alone, and I went through a lot of difficult moments alone, but I searched for different ways to have fun. My struggle with addiction began in high school, though I was first introduced to it in middle school. I used substances to escape bad memories, to feel good about life, and I was also drawn to the way they made me sleep or just sit and think. At the same time, I loved laughing with friends and holding onto moments of joy that were few and far between. What ultimately brought me here was my suicide attempt. I had placed everything in my life before God, which led me down a path of confusion and darkness. I didn’t understand my emotions or why I felt so lost. In this program, I hope to grow spiritually, develop discipline, and learn to forgive myself so I can move forward. I want to fully accept God’s love and overcome the hypocrisy that once clouded my faith. I know I have misrepresented His name in the past, but I am ready to change and walk in truth.