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Second Chance |
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I have 4 beautiful children, 3 currently live with their dad in another state, and my youngest is in my custody. Both of my children’s fathers were abusive, so that is the chaotic lifestyle I knew. The month before I left my second abuser, I cried and prayed for God to open a door for me and my daughter to leave safely. God opened the door so I could leave, and made it so the place I escaped to was too far away for me to return to my abuser.
During this time I began going to a local church and I was saved. From that point on I grabbed on to God. I started praying more, reading my Bible daily, and ministering to the other women in the emergency shelter. Two weeks later I called Sheepfold and on August 15, 2016, I moved in to start a new chapter in my life – a chapter I never thought was possible.
I had a court hearing for a restraining order in early September. Of course, I was nervous right before I went before the judge, so as I waited, I prayed. That day the judge granted me a 5-year restraining order and sole legal and physical custody of my little girl. By the grace of God I was given a second chance to be a mom again! Praise God! At the end of that same week, I was baptized at church and I felt refreshed and new.
In October, I took my daughter to have an eye exam and found out that she not only needed glasses, but she needed special (very expensive) glasses. I went in ready to pay for the glasses and they told me to wait because they might be able to get a grant to help pay for the glasses. So, I prayed on it and asked the ladies at the shelter to pray on it too. I called them back and found out they had gotten a grant that covered all the cost!
I am so grateful for the Sheepfold! All of the House Managers are beautiful, graceful women of God and each has guided me on how to discipline and love my little girl. My strong-willed, defiant little girl has changed so much since we came here. Her behavior is less defiant and she loves to pray every night before bed. God has not only worked in my life, but He is also working in a 2 ½ year old’s life!
Even with all the trials I have endured since being at the Sheepfold, I am able to remain joyous and at peace. I have faith that God has a great purpose for me. My life is no longer chaotic! I am forever grateful to have such a loving Father. Thank you God for the second chance at life and a second chance to learn to be a great and loving mom.
- Shannon, Sheepfold Resident
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