“I grew up thinking I couldn’t amount to anything. My father was abusive and my mother was a prostitute. It left a negative impact on my life.”

Without parental guidance and love, it wasn’t long before Samuel dropped out of school and joined a gang. “Instead of working, I chose the cowardly way out — selling drugs. Ultimately, I was arrested and sent to prison.”

After being released from prison, Samuel returned to his old neighborhood, old friends … and old habits. “I was doing things I knew were wrong, and I hit my lowest point — homeless and desperate. I had nowhere to turn and didn’t value myself anymore. That’s what led me to MRM.”

With his basic needs met, Samuel realized, “I’m in a safe environment, one that allows me to focus and realize that there’s nothing wrong with wanting a good life.” He joined MRM’s long-term recovery program, where he received the resources he needed to turn his life around.

“It’s a program for guys that want to make a change in their life. They offer counseling, hold you accountable and teach you structure, which I needed. They help with furthering your education, taking care of past debts. They get you ready for the work force by giving you job training. It gives me pride.”

Through Bible classes and spiritual counseling, Samuel grew closer to God. “I’ve seen God work in others and that inspired me to change my life. He met me where I was at — and because of God, I’m free from alcohol, free from marijuana and other controlled substances. I’m free from guilt and self-hatred.”

Today, Samuel is sober, employed, clear-minded and looking forward to the future — including Thanksgiving. “This year I actually have something to be thankful for. It’s not just about a plate of turkey. It’s about being thankful for another year, for positive accomplishments, for sobriety and for the time others put into helping me.”

By God’s grace and through your generosity, Samuel is giving thanks for a transformed life — and for friends like you who’ve helped make it possible. “Thank you for caring about me, even though you don’t know me. That’s a beautiful thing. Thank you for loving me even before I could love myself!”