My name is Norman.

Believe it or not, to get high I would drink rubbing alcohol every day. Vodka couldn’t get me drunk anymore, so I went the cheap route. Don’t ask me how I survived, because I don’t have the answer. I just know I lived for the devil most of my life. I liked the partying, the lifestyle, the drugs — and eventually the rubbing alcohol. How far could a person get from God!

I flirted with disaster every day. It’s a miracle I survived. I drank, smoked and fought. Over and over my family tried to help me, but I was hell-bent on doing things my own wicked way. I dropped out of school in the fifth grade. As a result, I neither read nor write in English or Spanish. But here at the Mission, I’m slowly learning how to read the Bible. If God can change a person like me, He can change anyone.

Someone asked me when I would be ready to leave the Mission. I said, not now. Maybe three years from now. I’m scared to death to go out there for fear of what I might do. I’m not strong enough yet. But I know with God on my side, one day He will give me the strength I need to make it out there. But let me say a word to you who donate to the Mission — and this comes straight from my heart. I would give my life for you because of what you’ve done for me. You introduced me to Jesus. Because of your donations, I’m clean and sober. I no longer engage in illegal activity.

I don’t have enough words to express my thanks. I’ve finally found freedom in Jesus Christ. If it weren’t for you, the Mission and the staff, I would not be here today. If you’re a young person reading this, take it from me: stay in school; don’t smoke pot or do meth.

If you do, you will have a hell on earth. Go Jesus’ way and He will give you a life worth living. God bless you.