Mailbox Monday

As mentioned before, I LOVE hearing from my readers by email or by regular post. This past summer, I received my first letter from someone in prison who had read my book, Snow Melts in Spring. It was a long letter and very personal, but I thought I might share a few lines of it here with you, in hopes that it might inspire you in some way. I know it certainly touched my heart. ~ 
"Dear Deborah,
I am writing you from federal prison. A few days ago I was browsing around the chapel library not really knowing what I was looking for but I knew whatever it was God would lead me to it. He did just that! God guided me to a book that you wrote . . . ."

"I am a recovering alcoholic and addict. By the age of eleven, I was running with gangs and living on the streets . . . this is my second time in prison. The first time I did 2 1/2 years on a 5 year Texas State Prison sentence. I was a hot tempered, atheist, and I hated everything that life had to offer . . . . I am currently serving a 10 year sentence . . . ."

"[Two months later], I was in such despair, I no longer wanted to remain in this world. The moment before I attempted to take my life something happened. God and I went toe to toe. Needless to say, He won! Now I live for Him."

"These past two years haven't been easy. Nothing in life is, but I wake up each day trying to live for God as He wants me to live. Today, I understand Hope and Love."

"So, I'm reading your book, then out of nowhere, my past is flashing in my mind like an old movie projector. All these thoughts and emotions that I kept hidden, kept running from, just keep coming to the surface ... the pain got so bad that I hit my knees and called out to Jesus to help me. I didn't want to finish the book, it hurt too bad." 

"I gave in and did as God directed. I finished the book. I then knew God's purpose and it was time to heal . . . . I was finally able to forgive myself and ask [my son] to forgive me . . . . He said 'Yes mommy, it's okay and Jesus forgives you too.'"

"God spoke to me through your words and today I am free. No longer plagued by shame and guilt. Today is new!!" ~ HS

Deborah here:
Praise God, from whom all blessings flow.
Praise Him, all creatures here below;
Praise Him above, ye heav'nly host;
Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen