Growing up, I was much younger than my siblings, and by the time I arrived, my family no longer attended church. I went to church only when I slept over at friends who did attend church. I felt envious of this part of their life without knowing why but this interest did not carry over to my young adult years and first marriage. I married into a “Lutheran” family but again, a non-practicing one.

My first marriage lasted 7 years. Our life was very much “world centered” and our marriage just could not survive our incompatible personalities and reliance on our own wisdom for resolving conflicts. I had 2 wonderful children but they could not hold us together. We both agreed to divorce, even though my youngest child was less than a year old. I was really at a loss as to what was next for me in life. I lived with my parents for a brief period and then bought myself a small home. I was somewhat dependent on my parents for help with the children, as I had no choice but to work.

Several months after my divorce was final and while at work, I met Gary, the man who would become my second (and last) husband. I was a newly single flight attendant not looking for a husband (certainly not a pilot) and thought I could take advantage of my single Mom status to get my life sorted out. Gary was a good bit older than me but had qualities that made me think he was worth consideration. So after we had talked on the phone several times, I accepted a date with him. The first date (to dinner) was enjoyable, but the second date was unforgettable. He invited me to attend Buckhead Community Church with him. I was intrigued and unsure what to expect, but his enthusiastic description did not sound like any of the few churches I had experienced. At the contemporary service, a flight attendant provided her testimony. Besides my enjoyment of the drama and music, the testimony and sermon felt like both were directed right at me. This completely floored me. That missing element in my life, a relationship with a savior who really existed and loved me, was so obvious that I could hardly wait until the next chance to go to church. After 6 months of learning and realizing what God was actually offering me and Gary’s constant encouragement and testimony, I met with our pastor and accepted Jesus Christ as my savior. As Buckhead CC, renamed Cumberland Community Church, moved into their new permanent building, I was the first person baptized there by Pastor Peter Grant. One week later, Gary proposed and I accepted.

A marriage with Christ as the centerpiece has made all the difference in the world. My life is complete – nothing is missing. Of course, there are mountains to climb and difficulties to weather, but our family is surrounded by the Holy Spirit and supported by a loving home group and many other friends from Dogwood. The rains have come and will again, but I have what I was once missing and will never be without.

7 Responses to “Share Your Story – Trish”