Q’s Story

“Before Hope House, I was selfish. I was confused spiritually, and the only thing I knew how to do was to get drunk or get high. I didn’t know how to treat people right or to be a father. I was trying to fill a void in my life, but everything I tried to fill it with was never sufficient. I hated my life because nothing made sense. I hurt my relationships with my kids by using the hate I had for their mother to push me away from them. My family loved me, but I constantly hurt and disappointed them.

I felt like I had sinned too much to pray to God. That feeling made me realize something had to change. I did a 30-day treatment program, then I wanted to be in a program with Godly men to learn from their examples to be a father to my kids and be a true follower of Jesus. I knew I needed something long term, and it had to be faith-based.

I was instantly uncomfortable at first when I came to Program Living because of the length of the program and the structure. I was used to doing what I wanted to do. I quickly began to grow, and I was immediately introduced to God’s word and to church. I met other men my age who wanted the same things I did: to become better men and grow closer to God.

I’ve learned that God has always been with me, even when I’ve been at my lowest points in life. Now I know that no matter how long it’s been since you’ve been in your kids’ lives, it’s never too late for reconciliation. I’ve also learned that we can use every situation we experience to grow, and every one is a learning opportunity.

God has made me the best version of me that I’ve ever been. He’s given me hope. My relationships are all positive now, and I’m not hurting people anymore. I’m not stealing anymore. I’m not lying to people. I’m not hiding who I am.

My goals are to get back in my kids’ lives, to make a Christian music album, get financially stable, and to follow Christ with all my heart. I’m thankful for Hope House. I’m thankful for grace, and for life today. Life no longer seems meaningless, and I can actually love myself today.”