A Rose in the Swamp

"Writing my way out of darkness into the light and overcoming a fear of exposing myself to the world was very challenging, but I'm extremely glad I've developed the courage to do so.

Being violated from a small child until I was well into my adult years, kept me in a dark place. There was a time when the only thing that dulled my pain, was to use drugs and alcohol.

It has taken a lot of praying, resilience, believing, and trusting, for me to get to this place of sobriety, productivity and peace. Although I endured a lot of turmoil throughout my life, I know that God's love, and the support I received from others, are what got me through. I can honestly say that my life is now more beautiful and peaceful than it has ever been and that there is always light at the end of the tunnel."

---Cynthia Stenson