Bethany House of Northern Virginia

He had told me for so long that I was not suitable to do “anything,” and I had started to believe him.  I had come from a dysfunctional family myself.  My dad had left us when I was young, and my childhood years had been chaotic.  I was determined that this was not going to be the same for my family.  We would make it.  So, I became more and more isolated.  His verbal abuse became more and more destructive.  I tried so hard to keep up the appearance of a strong, loving family. I tried to change because he convinced me that it was my entire fault.  I tried to help my children be better so that their father would approve of them. Nothing worked!  I did not feel capable of leaving.  I did not feel I could take care of my two small children on my own.  

But God had a different plan for us.  He gave me the courage and strength to take one step at a time. 

Exodus 23:20 became very important to me, and I saw God provide for me and my children time after time.  “See, I am sending an angel before you, to keep you on your way and to be your guide into the place which I have made ready for you.”

As I sat in the interview at Bethany House, I knew something new was happening in my life.  Gayan asked what I would do if it did not work out to come there.  I remember saying, “I don’t know, but I can never go back.”  I knew I had started on a new journey and that my life had already changed.  I remember feeling so relieved after I talked to Becky.  She said it was okay to leave, to flee the abuse and start over.  I was not judged.  I just felt encouraged.

I remember the peace and quiet of Bethany House.  There was physical separation from the chaos of abuse.  My children and I could relax.  We did not have worry about the next emotional explosion.  We could actually lie down and sleep at night, in peace, without my husband’s angry words. 

The journey has continued.  I completed my professional certification while at Bethany House and was able to find work that led to more work, and has ended up in a full-time career.  God has provided, has sent His angel ahead of me, and has prepared the way for my family and me.  I am thankful to Him for all He has done and to Bethany House for being a part of my journey.