Quetzalcoatl

Prior to The Bridge, I spent 10 months at program in Napa before I relapsed. When my family found out, they gave me an ultimatum – that if I messed up again, all contact would be cut off. And for months, I didn’t talk to my family. I continued to use and got into trouble. I was released from a 51-50 place, with nowhere to go and no one to call and no phone. So, I walked across the freeway, and it happened to be my sister’s church. I asked to use their phone and the person I asked was the pastor. He said he knew who I was and that they had been praying for me. When I reached out to my sister for help, I explained my situation – that I wanted to get clean but had nowhere to go - she mentioned that she had just ran into Pastor Aaron from The Bridge Napa, just hours prior to me reaching out to her. She told Aaron about me and he told her about The Bridge Restoration Ministry recovery program in Pacific Grove. At first, I thought it was a coincidence, but now I know it was God.

“No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful, He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will also provide a way out so that you can endure it” (1 Corinthians 10:13)

I was exposed to church when growing up, but I did not believe. So, when I got to The Bridge, I was vocal about it. I kept asking questions. And I can’t pinpoint exactly when my heart changed - it just happened. I saw things differently and found clarity for open heart, mind and surrender. I thought, if this will help me stay sober, let’s do it. Overall, I had a good experience in the program. The house was welcoming and the people I was around were easy to get along with. I love learning new things. So, I really enjoyed my time working in the Second Chance Thrift store.

“Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” (Romans 5:3-4)

Fast forward to now, I’m nearing 3 years sober. Staying connected has been so beneficial for me. Working at the thrift stores, helping with the house, giving back to the program that helped me - it all reminds me of where I was when I came in and that I don’t want to go back to that place. So, I’m staying focused and am thankful to have landed in a community where people are supportive. This community supports the program; between the church and customers, they’ve all been so supportive. I’m keeping my focus on sobriety and my relationship with God because when I surrender to Him, I can push through any obstacle.