In January of 2002, I signed my attendance slip at church that I was willing to go where ever God wanted me to go. I didn't know how God would use me or even if He would use me. Nine months later I moved from Escondido, California, my home town since birth, to Gardnerville, Nevada and CVC. Within 2 weeks I was in a small group going through the 40 Days of Purpose. Six months later I was in the Wounded Hearts class at STEP. God allowed me to do a face plant in October 2004 and I ended up in West Hills for a night. After that night, I began walking with my eyes focused on my Creator. I followed advice from Pastor Roy, Joanna Bowman and Pastor Jack and began to faithfully see my doctor and stay on my medications.  God has placed people in my path for a reason. Joanna Bowman, He placed her in my path to show me there is healing. Pastor Roy, he continues using wisdom, given to him by our Father, to guide me every week.  He uses Pastor Jack's arms to give me "Jesus" hugs. He used Laura Saintey to show me I need boundaries.  He used Henry and Cindy and Tammy to show me I can apologize for my part and Gods forgiveness is all that matters in return. He has used my Life Team bible study to show me the unconditional love of a family. He has used many of you here in so many special ways. Showing me it's ok to cry and there is healing in tears and hugging me to show me that I'm loved.

The same hand that formed His Son to die for our sins and turned His face when He hung on the cross is the same hand that formed us and turned His face when we were abused or hurt. He also is the same Father who took the pain of His Sons death and used it to save you and me and countless others. He will also take the pain of our abuse or hurts and use it to help and guide others in the same situation we have been in if we allow Him to.  You, my friends, are beautiful and wonderful. I value you ... His creation, and I value me ... His creation. I will not waste the life given to me. I will practice forgiveness and learn to love and pray for my enemies and demonstrate Christ 's love to my brothers and sisters. I will also continue to forgive and love myself and follow Him wherever He leads me.

Cynthia H.