My name is Samantha Charles and I’m 28 years old. I have an 11-year-old daughter, AnaBella, and a 6-year-old son, Jeremiah, I was still in high school when I had my daughter. I knew that having a child would mean that I no longer was a child myself and that I had to provide for her. At the age of 17 I decided to join the Army Reserves. I served 6 years in the military while caring for my daughter and my son whom I had in 2012. In my life I suffered from frequent panic attacks, anxiety and depression. Because of shame and guilt, I began to self-medicate with Xanax. I became dependent on the drug and started to abuse them. Because of this I was discharged from the military in 2015. I began to feel sorry for myself and isolate. I tried to commit suicide multiple times and started using methamphetamines and other hard drugs in 2016. Growing up, I wasn’t taught about the love of Jesus Christ, my family never went to church. Not having Jesus in my life and using drugs provided an open door for the enemy. I soon became totally overwhelmed in my lifestyle of drugs and wrong choices. My mind and my actions were out of control and I found myself in jail. That’s where I heard about Grace House and when I saw “faith based” transitional home, I knew this is where I needed to be. Jesus Christ has restored my mind and has given me a new identity. Since putting my faith in Jesus, I haven’t had one panic attack nor do I suffer from anxiety or fear. My mind is no longer tormented and the condemning thoughts are gone. Jesus came after me and I received Him, He intervened in my life and for that I’m ever so grateful. Now I can live a life free from addiction and free from mental instability. The LORD has placed in my heart to let His light in me shine so others can see it, especially to my children. I know that knowing Jesus Christ is eternal and means life or death. I want to share everything I know about Him and I have dedicated my life to serve Him. He’s put the desire in my heart to see those that are oppressed be set free, just like I was!
Samantha
