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I was sixteen years old, the youngest of four girls and the only one living at home. I had lived in Florida all my life and suddenly my parents told me we were moving to the Midwest. My three older sisters stayed in Florida. Alone, frightened and angry I unwillingly moved with my parents.

The summer before this move, I met some new friends and became active in the Youth for Christ organization. This group of young people had an excitement for Christ that I had never encountered before. My involvement with them became a life changing experience. Although my time with them was brief, I discovered a faith that has guided and sustained me to this day.

Our parents were alcoholics. They were functional and professional people but still alcoholics. The drinking began the minute they walked in the door in the evening and continued until one or both passed out. Weekends were spent partying with like friends and only by the grace of God, did they manage to find a way to get us home.

Leaving my sisters, childhood friends and new Christian friends was the hardest thing I had ever done. I was scared and angry. I am sure without a doubt, my faith and belief that God would be with me, saved my life. Upon arriving at my new home, nights passed and I could not sleep. I cried, prayed, and could not grasp the loneliness I felt. I could not talk to my mom since she was unhappy leaving her home as well. I fought the sadness and yet in overwhelmed me.

After a couple of weeks, I knew I was in trouble. Exhausted and depressed, I began walking around the small town crying and praying. I asked God for help. I asked God for guidance, for a friend. Turning the corner, I saw a beautiful old church and decided to sneak in and say a prayer. I opened the front door of this old church and there stood a man who appeared to be in his twenty's. He had a beard and long hair (it was 1972) and said hello to me. I quietly said "hello". He must have seen the look of fear in my eyes because he asked if I needed someone to talk with. To this day, I believe God led me to this place and to this man. He turned out to be the youth pastor of the church and my friend.

To this day, I am still an active member of this church. The power of faith has sustained me for many years. A young girl, scared and alone, I depended on my faith and the promise that I would not walk alone. I believe in the power of faith to bring hope and promise to our lives. Faith has brought me this far and faith will lead me home.

Learn more about this author, Peggy Lindgren.
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