When we run from our pain, we are ultimately running from the Lord. Though we may go through trials in our lives, we can trust in God to deliver us from the darkness. Growing up in an abusive home, Lizmarie believed running was her only choice to escape her demons. This is her story:
I grew up in the Bronx, in a mostly traditional Dominican household. As a child, I endured physical, emotional and sexual abuse. I became a teen mom and ended up in foster care. My childhood and the foster care system drove me to lose my sense of self-worth. But through it all, I had this fire within me that kept me pushing and striving never to give up. Ten years later, I decided to escape the dark memories of my past and move to Florida with my two beautiful children. But this move did not bring me the peace that I had hoped for as I experienced more trauma and abuse.
I knew I could not go on like this, so I decided to give my life to Christ, and I realized that is where I should have been running all along. I was ashamed. My pride had kept me from acknowledging my role in my circumstances. I know I was not properly rooted and grounded in God, which is why I was so easily swayed by sin. Nevertheless, His plan will prevail, and He is working in me to strengthen me. Out of all the shelters in Houston, He placed us here, at the Women and Family Development Center, to develop my relationship with Him.
I would like to humbly and with a gracious heart express my gratitude to all the Star of Hope staff, donors and volunteers who make the Star of Hope Mission possible for people like me. Thank you, and may God bless you.
After years of pain and abuse, Lizmarie could finally stop running and trust in God. Your support of Star of Hope has allowed her to deepen her faith and find peace within herself. Thank you for providing women like Lizmarie and many others the chance to heal.