About three or four years ago, I was at the end of my tether.
I had become a total recluse and was existing in my own unwashed body, clothing, bedding and surroundings. I had been drinking, smoking and eating junk food with no exercise at all. I had put on a ton of weight, which was alien to me – the first time I saw my reflection in the mirror I was horrified! I looked and smelt disgusting. I was very suicidal and depressed beyond comprehension.
During this time, I had been in and out of A&E and had some despicable responses. No care was offered. I needed to be with other people, who could help me both practically and emotionally (I had not even considered spirituality at that time).
I was always sent away alone, dishevelled, and signposted to God-knows-where. I told them time and time again that I needed help, but I was left to cope alone, which I couldn’t do. I have since learnt that God did not design us to cope alone.
All I could hear was negative voices putting me down.
“They listened and acknowledged. They never visibly or verbally passed judgment on me or my surroundings.”
I believe that it was Age UK that introduced me to Torch, and I was visited by Esther and Gemma. They listened and acknowledged. They never visibly or verbally passed judgment on me or my surroundings. They said a prayer and offered to come and help me declutter and clean my living space. It wasn’t an easy task. Cleaning was done by Esther and Anne – it must have felt daunting for them.
Torch continued to help me with reshuffling and organising my living space. I felt so honoured, humbled, and amazingly grateful. A short time later, I was given notice to leave the bedsit as my landlord wanted to sell. I was initially very scared but was aware that Torch’s intervention was well-timed. After two months, I was offered a real flat, no more one-room bedsit.
“The two men who helped me move in were much needed and must have dropped everything to help. I was in awe.”
Torch volunteers stepped in again and were marvellous. The two men who helped me move in were much needed and must have dropped everything to help. I was in awe. One of the chaps from Torch prayed for me and gave me a New Testament.
Torch continued to help me with appointments and various other bits and pieces. Since my encounters with the people from Torch I have joined in some of the activities at All Nations Christian Centre. I have experienced genuine affection and care. I have not been judged or coerced into Christianity. I have been persuaded by example. I now enjoy my relationship with my Pappa Lord and He is now a constant in my life, instead of a whispering shadow.
All thanks to Torch.
Story published with permission.