A Resident Story
We had the opportunity to hear the story of Maria, one of our residents. Her positive attitude and overall love of her life was a beautiful testimony to what we are doing at The Dwelling Place, and how it is impacting generations to come.
I met my abuser when I was 16 and he was 26. We dated for a couple years and after that, we got engaged. Everything changed as soon as we got married. That is when the abuse started. He controlled everything, money, people I talked to and the way I dressed. Soon I stopped talking to my friends and family because no one was good enough to be around us. He used sarcasm and criticized everything I did. I took full responsibility for our baby because he was an absent father and an unsatisfied man; no one was enough. My son grew up around abuse and disrespect. My abuser used to hit him with a closed fist. I tried to defend my son and he also hit me in the process. Sadly, my son started to be my abuser as well.
After 11 years, I had a beautiful baby girl. When my abuser exposed her to sexual content, that is when I decided to leave. She was 5 when this happened.
We escaped inside my best friend’s car trunk with two backpacks, my daughter, and my faith. I knew that God had a good future for us.
After 2 months of living in an emergency shelter, I got in contact with The Dwelling Place (TDP). For the first time, I felt hope for our future. While we were at TDP, I had the opportunity to work on my spirit and soul. I understood what had happened to me. I received all the help that I needed to feel normal again. Little by little, the fear disappeared. I started a real relationship with God. I received the emotional and spiritual help that we needed.
I accomplished a lot in 2 years at TDP. I changed my name, got my US citizenship, got baptized, completed the divorce process, got my driver’s license. A family donated a car for us, I got the job of my dreams, I saved enough to buy a house.
I found my identity in Christ. I know that I am a child of God. It has been a long journey, now I can tell that I’m no longer afraid. I know that my Heavenly Father has me. I have a fresh start; my family and I have a second chance. We are living a Christian life.
Pray with us, as we lift up our current residents on their unique journeys, that they find hope, healing and the love of Jesus Christ in each step. Pray that they continue to grow in their faith, and guide their families in love and peace.