Website last updated on:
January 5, 2008
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“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
Isaiah 40:31
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Christmas Treasures for Teka
When Teka first came to Raleigh Rescue Mission’s Community Medical Respite Program, her heart was filled with shame and loneliness. Drugs had stolen her health and she suffered almost daily seizures. Her three children lived with Teka’s mother and though Teka longed to see them, she was not allowed to venture past the gate of her mother’s home.
Then, as we reported in the Winter 2008 Open Door, Teka’s life was transformed through the Mission’s Life Plan Program. After giving her heart to Christ and overcoming her addiction, Teka’s seizures subsided. Better yet, her mother welcomed her for visits to see her children.
Today, Teka is living in our transitional housing, and her life is busier and happier than ever! “I’m enrolled at Wake Tech to get my associate’s degree in human services. I want to be a substance abuse counselor. My kids are getting high grades in school and my youngest just gave me a heart she made. I am truly blessed.”
For the first time in years, Teka will join her family overnight for the Christmas holidays. “My mom lets me stay the night now and we all pile into her king-size bed. To watch TV. I’m hoping to have the weekend—or maybe a whole week—there for Christmas.”
Though her children have hinted about gifts they’d like to receive from their mother, the family is simply glad to be together. “If I could have anything for Christmas, it would be a whole box of hugs from my kids,” Teka says.
Looking back, Teka admits she never knew what being a mom was until she found a new way of life at Raleigh Rescue Mission. “The staff talks to you when you are down. They really care. People give money so you have what you need to keep your hair nice, your body clean, and so we can have activities and classes that inspire us to do better.”
As Teka looks to the future, her hopes for her children mirror those of any mother: “I want them to have the best life. I want them to do what I couldn’t do. That would be the best treasure I could receive.”
Click here to read more
Stories of Changed Lives.
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