There's an old adage that goes, "Every saint has a past, and every sinner has a future." This couldn’t be more true than in the case of David, whose story is an authentic testament to resilience, faith, and the transformative power of second chances. Check out his story below:

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David's story begins with a misstep many have experienced. After a car accident, he was prescribed painkillers. He recalls, "I got in a car accident and was given painkillers, which was kind of a thing that was happening in and amongst the group of people that, you know, we would drink with." This seemingly innocent prescription spiraled David into a world of addiction, affecting not just his personal health, but his professional life and relationships as well.

A job that offered freedom, ironically, chained him further to his vices. Days became a juggle between official responsibilities and seeking the next high. David’s fall was rapid: from prescription pills to street drugs, and then to methamphetamines. And as the addiction tightened its grip, he resorted to criminal activities to fund his habit.

Facing a courtroom and what he believed to be an imminent prison sentence, David was thrown a lifeline. The judge, after taking everything into account, including David's past as a caring father, gave him a chance to redeem himself by completing the New Life program at Springs Rescue Mission.

David poignantly shares, "...I was just motivated by the Christ centered program and believed that the only person that could save me was Jesus." His journey to sobriety wasn't just about detoxifying his body; it was about rejuvenating his soul.

Today, David stands as an example of hope and transformation. He’s not just a beneficiary of the rescue mission but plays a pivotal role as the shelter manager, overseeing numerous shelter operations. His life, which once spiraled into darkness, now shines bright, touching and inspiring many others.

In his own words, "What the mission means to me is life. It's not just a place. It's not just consecrated, it's God's property. I found life here."