Graduate #1, Session 2 — I grew up in Lubbock, Texas, in a very dysfunctional family. Addiction ran rampant on both sides of my family. Alcohol destroyed my home and by age 3 my parents were divorced. Because of the abuse I witnessed growing up I often landed in horrible relationships. I just didn’t know there could be life without abuse . . .CWJC has been the best thing that I ever did for myself. The morning Bible study taught me the importance of prayer and the study of God’s Word to further my relationship with Christ. Before coming to CWJC I had no idea what a Microsoft Word program was. Now, thanks to the computer classes I can now type and execute other computer abilities. The clothes closet has been a tremendous blessing for me to attain proper attire to enter the work force. In the money management class I learned how to manage finances wisely, and now I have a checking account and can balance my checkbook. MORE>

Graduate #2, Session 2 —When I was growing up the saying that “every pastor’s family has a black sheep” rang all true for I was the black sheep. I look back on those times now and I can see how I let Satan use me to foil as best he could my dad’s ministry . . . I would pop antidepressants along with my other drugs of choice as I lost my mind. I had experienced so many bad and sinful things I just couldn’t handle it anymore. By 2001, I was in All Saints Hospital’s detoxification ward . . . I had been told I had cirrhosis of the liver and I had three years to live. This was the end of my drug and alcohol abuse. I began to attend AA and NA meetings and seeing a psychiatrist and a therapist. In 2002, I had pneumonia and, because of this, I was able to find out that I had Hepatitis C. I had a liver biopsy and began a chemotherapy treatment weekly for six months. I was a lifeless lump physically, spiritually, and mentally. I was in my car going home from the doctor and I began to call on the Lord and ask for help and what I should do next and to show me a sign. Sitting to the right of a red light I saw a sign on this church marquee that said “Christian Women’s Job Corps” and an arrow pointing to the right so I turned and went in and was able to become a part of CWJC . . . Christian Women’s Job Corps saved my life and my marriage and my children’s lives. MORE>

Graduate #1, Session 13 — Vision is defined as the faculty of sight. The word focus is defined as producing a clear image. I had a goal for my life in sight:  a plan or vision that I was aiming towards. My focus, however, was off. I was unable to produce a clear image of how to reach my goal. CWJC has enabled me to clarify my vision academically, emotionally and spiritually. MORE>

Graduate #2, Session 13 — The most important decision I have made recently was coming to CWJC. It has really changed my life. Before coming to this program, I was at the lowest point in my life. I had hit rock bottom. There was no place to go but up. While I was in this place, God began to show me the way he wanted me to go . . . Making the choice to come to CWJC was the right thing to do. It wasn’t an easy decision, but I felt it was my last chance to change and to better myself. Rock bottom had come for me when I was arrested and put in jail. My ex-husband had written a bad check on my behalf and a felony charge was brought against me. I was in jail for a crime I did not do, alone, with nobody to call for help. MORE>

Graduate #3, Session 13 — Sometimes the things we expect the most turn out to be the things we need the least. When I came into the CWJC program, I expected to be taught more about computers. What I am leaving with, however, is a whole lot more . . . I learned more about myself here than I guess I ever knew, which is more than I expected. Some of the most important things I have learned are:  a better understanding on how to study the bible, how to grow spiritually and how to have a stronger walk with God, as well as language arts, money management, career skills and basic computer skills. I also learned how to place boundaries that will help in my life. MORE>

Graduate #4, Session 13 — I have been to five funerals in the past eight years: my sister, my nephew, my childhood best friend, my cousin . . . and now another friend. All of their deaths were sudden, with no warning. I have had trouble finding my way out of the pits of depression after so many losses. I had an important decision to make. Should I go to the hospital to be with friends and family or attend the meeting (I had scheduled) at CWJC? I knew in my heart that if I missed the meeting that I would never reschedule. The sadness of losing another loved one would suck me back down into that pit, where I would probably waste another year, or two, or ten. As I struggled with the decision, I heard a familiar scripture in my heart, “Why seek ye the living among the dead?” Luke 24:5. I knew I had to take this step in order to join the living again . . . Even though I cried during the majority of the interview, I felt deep in my soul that this is where I needed to be, where I was supposed to be. MORE>

Graduate #5, Session 13 — What is thankfulness? Where does it come from? Where does it begin and end? . . . It is time for me to realize that one part of motherhood is over and the grown up part of my son’s life is off to a glowing start. I am so thankful to CWJC for the guidance gained, the wisdom of new ideas and the ability to carve a new pathway for myself filled with anxious hopes and dreams. The hope I have for my son is that he will always be thankful for the person he has come to be and remember the people who helped him when he struggled. MORE>

Graduate #6, Session 13 — Christian Women’s Job Corps has done so many things for my life. This program has provided the foundation for a new freedom and a new happiness. When I first started here I was lost inside and had a feeling of hopelessness. Through lessons and Bible study, I have grown spiritually and I love knowing God’s word. I have learned to believe in the Lord and have faith even when times are troublesome. I have gained more confidence and I am able to believe in myself. Also, the skills I have obtained from computer class, language arts and finance class I will be able to use the rest of my life . . . Overall, this program has been a blessing from God to me. MORE>

Graduate #1, Session 14 — Being accepted into Christian Women’s Job Corps has been a turning point in my life . . . After twenty-one years, I am finally graduating from a school to prove to myself that I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me, and also to prove to my children and others that when you walk with God anything is possible. It’s never too late to better yourself . . .CWJC has been so much more that I imagined. Not only has my knowledge been expanded, my relationship with the Lord has grown beyond my expectations. There are not enough words to express my thanks to everyone who plays a part in CWJC. MORE>

Graduate #2, Session 14 — Twenty-four years ago I became a young, single mother. I wasn’t able to finish college and as a result, I took whatever jobs I could to provide for my child. Eventually, I married and my family grew. I worked part-time, which allowed me to be there for my family . . .My total focus in life had become my family. I had given up on all of my dreams. With my children growing up, I realized that I was unable to move on to a career, which was something I had dreamed of when I was much younger. I thought that dream was over when I became a mother. Then I heard about CWJC . . . The support I received through CWJC gave me the hope and confidence to obtain the future that I never dreamed possible. MORE>

Graduate #3, Session 14 — I came to CWJC wanting to learn to write a resume and to have something to put on it. It was a trivial, superficial reason, but it got me to the door. I wanted other people to be proud of me. It never occurred to me to be proud of myself. God had a plan, though . . .I learned so much more than I expected. I learned about God’s mighty power, the power of prayer and about letting the good in . . . I would like to go back to school and become a teacher or a counselor. My goal and my prayer is for the Lord to open my eyes and show me where He wants me to be. MORE>

Graduate #4, Session 14 — I came to Christian Women’s Job Corps to learn computer skills, but I learned so much more . . . After my husband passed away in 2006, I found myself needing to return to the workforce. I also needed new skills in order to locate a good paying job . . . At CWJC, I learned how to study my Bible in depth, as well as how to manage my finances. In addition, I was taught how to set boundaries for myself. CWJC has helped me rise above my circumstances . . . It has been a life-changing opportunity. MORE>

Graduate #5, Session 14 — Christian Women’s Job Corps has truly been an answered prayer . . . My prayer was simple. I needed an education and I felt CWJC was a good place to receive one. I knew, after all, that it was a Christian organization and they offered computer skills . . . I learned better ways of communicating in my personal and professional relationships. I now know how to set reasonable healthy boundaries and stick to them. I learned better ways of supporting my husband and children in the choices that they make. I now believe that I am strong enough to face life’s “lessons” . . . And I did learn about computers, as well as finance, nutrition and language arts . . . I received the greatest blessing through our Bible study classes. MORE>

Graduate #6, Session 14 — Coming home after being turned down for yet another job because I lacked computer skills was devastating. I was very discouraged. Then, as I was praying, I happened to glance up and see the Christian Women’s Job Corps sign with the phone number . . . When I found out that the classes were held in Granbury and the cost was free, I knew that was the answer I was looking for. CWJC provided Bible study, mentoring and an education in life and job skills. I experienced growth, enrichment, support and encouragement. MORE>

Graduate #1, Session 2
I grew up in Lubbock, Texas, in a very dysfunctional family. Addiction ran rampant on both sides of my family. Alcohol destroyed my home and by age 3 my parents were divorced. Because of the abuse I witnessed growing up I often landed in horrible relationships. I just didn’t know there could be life without abuse. It wasn’t until later in life, after accepting Jesus Christ as my Savior, that I experienced the love of a father.

We were poor and moved around a lot, living with various relatives. I changed schools a lot so I was always the new kid on the block trying to be accepted and fit in. I started using drugs and alcohol in high school and later dropped out altogether. I did end up getting my GED after awhile.

At 24 years of age I went into my first rehab. Two more rehabs and 4 jail terms later chaos was still running amuck in my life. My last jail term is when I decided that I didn’t have to keep living that kind of life. I started praying for God to release me from my bondage. I had to ask for forgiveness, and I had to repent and believe that God forgave me, and I had to forgive myself. The guilt and shame was overwhelming. God opened my eyes to the fact that if I wanted to be a Christian I would have to surrender. When I was released from Dawson State Jail I moved to Granbury with my mother. I was at the end of my rope. I had lost dignity and respect for myself.

At this point in my life I came across an article in the Hood County newspaper concerning CWJC. There had been so many doors slammed in my face that my hopes for receiving help from this program were not very high. I thought that they would not accept me if they found out I had been in prison. These were the thoughts going through my mind as I walked up the steps of the building for my interview. And by nothing but the grace of God I was accepted! I couldn’t believe that I was going to receive three months of Bible study, life skills, computer lessons, English, writing, lunch, and a mentor—and a wonderful mentor at that—all for free!

CWJC has been the best thing that I ever did for myself. The morning Bible study taught me the importance of prayer and the study of God’s Word to further my relationship with Christ. Before coming to CWJC I had no idea what a Microsoft Word program was. Now, thanks to the computer classes I can now type and execute other computer abilities. The clothes closet has been a tremendous blessing for me to attain proper attire to enter the work force. In the money management class I learned how to manage finances wisely, and now I have a checking account and can balance my checkbook.

Also, being around positive Christian women and men has taught me how kind and generous people can be (without wanting something in return). I have applied these principles in my life as well. I’ve learned so much about Jesus my Savior. I have been forgiven. God loves me—faults and all. One of the things I learned from CWJC is that there are no limits to God’s love. I am just so amazed at all of the volunteers that take time to come to the facility and teach women who have lost their way. And every morning when I would come to class there was always a hug waiting for me at the top of the stairs. And that always made me feel special.

Before coming to CWJC I was afraid to go out and get a job. Now, not only can I fill out an application, but I also have a resume and I am employed. By going through the CWJC program I was given back my love, acceptance, dignity and respect. Through Jesus Christ, I have confidence in myself. I would like to add that I would recommend this program to anyone who is in need of a new life.

Thank you for your time and thank you CWJC!  

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Graduate #2, Session 2
My parents are still married and still alive. I have an older brother and an older sister. My father is now a retired Southern Baptist preacher. When I was growing up the saying that “every pastor’s family has a black sheep” rang all true for I was the black sheep. I look back on those times now and I can see how I let Satan use me to foil as best he could my dad’s ministry. My dad has always been a man of God and remains that to this day.

I was raised in a family that was constantly going to church. That’s all I ever did. I became knowledgeable about God. Somehow I missed the connection to have a relationship with God that was real and personal. I think for me church was a pain because I had to behave or get in trouble when I got home. When I was 13 years old I remember feeling God’s call to missions during a GA and Acteen gathering at the Glen Rose Baptist encampment. I never told anyone about this and continued on with my life. Today this instance is proof that God will finish what He had started in my life. I was a loud outspoken but a good kid. I did not start my drug and alcohol abuse until I was 16 years old. Thus, began the beginning of my double life. I fell into all kinds of relationships that proved terminal for me. At 18 years of age I was living on my own and still searching for “something.” I had begun to turn cold and bitter and angry. I did not have a lot of friends. I was beautiful on the outside but a nightmare on the inside. Try to picture, if you will, me a size 10 with blond hair! I remained medicated for 18 more years. During this madness I had married, had a child and lost a child and then divorced. I remarried when I was 25 and remained married to this day. In addition I had another child and lost another child. To present I have a 14 year old girl and a 6 year old girl. I have always been smart and strong-willed but, praise the Lord that He is smarter and stronger. It took 18 years to bust me all the way back into a lump of clay that could be moldable.

May 1, 2001, is a day that will always send a cold shiver down my back to think of it. This day marks the beginning of a deep whirlpool of depression and utter despair that I sank deeper and deeper into. I would pop antidepressants along with my other drugs of choice as I lost my mind. I had experienced so many bad and sinful things I just couldn’t handle it anymore. By September 2001, I was in All Saints Hospital’s detoxification ward. This was my third program. What was so different about this time was my body was gone as well. I had been told I had cirrhosis of the liver and I had three years to live. This was the end of my drug and alcohol abuse which, by the way, this last Wednesday, September 17th, marks my two year sobriety anniversary! I stayed in the hospital for three weeks and upon leaving I began to attend AA and NA meetings and seeing a psychiatrist and a therapist. April 2002 I had pneumonia and, because of this, I was able to find out that I had Hepatitis C. I had a liver biopsy and began a chemotherapy treatment weekly for six months. I was a lifeless lump physically, spiritually, and mentally. I was in my car going home from being at the doctor and I began to call on the Lord and ask for help and what I should do next and to show me a sign. Setting to the right of a red light I saw a sign on this church marquee that said “Christian Women’s Job Corps” and an arrow pointing to the right so I turned and went in and was able to become a part of CWJC Session 2.

I was broken and spent and could barely hold up my head but I had made it to this class and God began to work a miracle in my life. These ladies at this CWJC thing were offering me friendship and a kinship in Christ. I tell you that through the support of these ladies and this program I began to live a life I used to dream of. When I had first come into CWJC I was in need of clothing and I looked through the clothing room and couldn’t find anything my size. So, I went to the Lord and said, “Lord, it looks like I’m going to have to have some clothes.” The next morning there was a bag full of my size clothing sitting at the door of CWJC. We do not know who it came from.

I was in CWJC during the remainder of the last three of my chemotherapy treatments and one night in bed I felt as if I were dying. I realized that my head was lying in the lap of Christ Jesus and He was stroking my hair. There was a dark shadow in the corner of the room. Jesus told me that He could take away my pain but He wasn’t going to, it was something I was going to have to bear but that night He comforted me. The next evening I was lying on the couch and during the night God touched me and I knew it was God. It started at the top of my head and went down through my body and out my fingertips and toes--a warm, electric sensation—and I realized that it was going beyond my own understanding and for 30 minutes the Spirit was so impressed upon me that I thought I was not going to be able to withstand it. I couldn’t wait to get to class the next day to share these experiences and I have been sharing ever since.

Christian Women’s Job Corps saved my life and my marriage and my children’s lives. It gave me not only job skills but confidence through hairstyles and cosmetics along with a work-related wardrobe. Through CWJC God gave me insights and the desire for the study of His Word. I gained many relationships with Christian people and a church home. CWJC gave me a view of seeing God at work and I have continued seeking God and, in return, He has invited me to join Him in His work He is doing in CWJC. I have been teaching the typing course of the CWJC Session 3 at the Lakeside Ministry Center. It has been a blessing to be a witness to another group of women God has brought into this program. I hear their stories and God’s grace is so amazing and awesome and present in their lives.

The effects of this course will be with me forever. I know there are women here in this area that are waiting to be led by the Lord into a CWJC experience. Yes, you graduate from this course but the experience will last a lifetime and will domino over and over into the lives again and again. Praise the Lord!

I would like to close with a Scripture that says it all. It’s from Jeremiah 29:11-13:

“I will bless you with a future filled with hope—a future of success, not of suffering. You will turn back to me and ask for help, and I will answer your prayers. You will worship me with all your heart, and I will be with you and accept your worship.”

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Graduate #1, Session 13
Vision is defined as the faculty of sight. The word focus is defined as producing a clear image. I had a goal for my life in sight:  a plan or vision that I was aiming towards. My focus, however, was off. I was unable to produce a clear image of how to reach my goal. CWJC has enabled me to clarify my vision academically, emotionally and spiritually.

Academically, I have learned many things in the last twelve weeks. My computer skills have developed dramatically in Word, Excel, PowerPoint and QuickBooks. Through our teachers, I have gained confidence and proficiency. Their patience, genuine concern and sincere love of teaching have helped me to rediscover the passion of learning. My sight is steadfastly set on pursuing education.

Sometimes we drift emotionally. Moments of unrest pull us into waters we do not know how to navigate through. I was lost in my own ocean. Through the family relationship classes and money management classes, I have found an anchor to help me ride out some of the emotional waves. The insight shared at CWJC has been very useful. It has given me strength and dignity of spirit.

This was more that I bargained for! It has impacted me on a deeply spiritual level. Our bible teachers invest themselves into our lives. Their wisdom and compassion have pulled me along in such an encouraging manner. The lesson of “establishing context” while reading the bible has been very valuable to me. Though this concept was intended for use while studying the bible, I see the relevance in applying it to life in general. Establish context. Establish context . . . what does God say about my situation? What does he think about this choice? How are His plans different than mine? How do I change to agree with Him?

“Anything worth doing is worth doing well.” Most of us have heard this statement. CWJC has proven to me, many times over, their commitment to love. They have proven it well. Their encouragement and dedication have directed me. I have a sharply focused picture of my future.

A poem written by Langston Hughes, entitled Dreams, says, “Hold fast to dreams, for if dreams die, life is a broken winged bird that cannot fly. Hold fast to dreams, for if dreams go, life is a barren field covered with snow.”

CWJC, thank you for loving me. I will cling to the resurrected dreams that you have given me.

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Graduate 2, Session 13
The most important decision I have made recently was coming to CWJC. It has really changed my life. Before coming to this program, I was at the lowest point in my life. I had hit rock bottom. There was no place to go but up. While I was in this place, God began to show me the way he wanted me to go and one came from a lady who started telling me about CWJC. I put the thought in the back of my mind, but it kept coming back. That is when I finally made the decision to apply and was accepted right away.

Making the choice to come to CWJC was the right thing to do. It wasn’t an easy decision, but I felt it was my last chance to change and to better myself. Rock bottom had come for me when I was arrested and put in jail. My ex-husband had written a bad check on my behalf and a felony charge was brought against me. Here I was in jail for a crime I did not do, alone, with nobody to call for help.

Before this happened I thought I had it all. I had recently found God and had just gotten engaged to my boyfriend of five years. I felt like my life was finally going somewhere and I was happy for the first time in months. I was so wrong. Right before getting arrested I thought it was a good idea to go back to my ex-husband’s house and once again try to e a family for my son. I should have learned the last time I tried that, but I didn’t. I believed it was what my son wanted. It was the worst mistake for my self and my son.

After moving in I realized that my ex-husband had built up a tremendous amount of anger towards me. On the sixth night of being there, he became violent and even threatened my life with a gun. I knew that for my son’s safety and mine, I needed to leave immediately. We came back to Granbury, but my ex-husband found out where we were and called the police and the next thing I knew I was getting arrested. I spent five days in jail, which seemed like an eternity, but I now know that god’s hand was on my life. This was where I learned about CWJC.

After being released and having no one to turn to, I spent a month living on the streets. Becoming angry helped me to survive. I thought blaming others and God was easier than facing the truth. The month living on the streets taught me a lot and I was finally able to let go of the anger, especially towards God. He didn’t do this to me. I did it to myself by making a wrong decision and choosing the wrong people to trust. If anything, God watched over me and guided me through this hard time and he made sure that my boys had somewhere to go and beloved and taken care of. I am thankful for that.

I knew I needed a change and CWJC has helped me to do that. Everyone has taught me so much throughout the weeks. Each one of you has had an impact on my life. I have gained a family through this program and the women her have become my sisters. I love them dearly and I am going to miss seeing their faces everyday. I want you all to know this is not the end of our friendship; it is only the beginning. God has given me another awesome gift, and that is my mentor. I just love her. I want to say thank you for being such a wonderful person and I admire you. You being here for me has meant so much and I now I found a lifelong friend. Everyone here has helped me have confidence in myself by showing me how to have faith in God and myself. You all have taught me to also love myself and that I deserve to be loved. The time you took each day to be here with me has meant the world to me, to know that you care touches me. God blessed me with each one of you. Thank you.

I am leaving here knowing that I can accomplish anything life throws my way as long as I never give up I can do anything. I have extreme confidence in myself and I know I can and will build a great future for myself and my boys, with all that I have learned and most of all, because I have God with me.

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Graduate #3, Session 13
Sometimes the things we expect the most turn out to be the things we need the least. When I came into the CWJC program, I expected to be taught more bout computers. What I am leaving with, however, is a whole lot more.

Before I came to CWJC, I had driven by the church several times reading the sign out front of the building telling about the program. I thought I should call and find out about it, but I kept putting it off. One day as I was sitting at the red light, I felt led to call and inquire about how to join. So I called and then I came in for an interview and Mary told me to be here February 12, ready to go to school. I thought, “Wow, I did it.”

I learned more about myself here than I guess I ever knew, which is more than I expected. Some of the most important things I have learned are:  a better understanding on how to study the bible, how to grow spiritually and how to have a stronger walk with God, as well as language arts, money management, career skills and basic computer skills. I also learned how to place boundaries that will help in my life.

I have been so blessed to have the love and support of my family to be here and to help me through this step in my life, to be here to help me and encourage me even on those days that I was not sure if I wanted to keep going. They have been my sounding board when I have needed it and my biggest fans. To my mom and dad who have said so many prayers and helped me through so much, they will never know how grateful I am to them.

Someone came into my life when I needed him the most. He is a very loving and wonderful man. He I the love of my life and with him he has brought along his son, who I have come to love like my own son. My oldest son has been my rock through some hard times even though he went through hard times himself. He has such a wonderful spirit. I love him so much and I am so proud to be his mother.

My youngest son, who was born profoundly deaf, has taught me more in his eight years of life than I could have ever imagined. He opened my heart and my eyes to a whole new world.

In addition to my family, I have also been blessed with new people in my life to help me on this journey. My mentor has been very loving and a dear woman to me. She is wonderful. There are also seven remarkable women who I have traveled this journey of my life with that I can say are my friends and they hold a special place in my heart. I am thankful for how they have helped me through this. I have a deep admiration for the teachers who take the time out of their lives to come and teach us all they have to offer. The wonderful lunch ladies who have fed — I still want to take them home with me.

I am walking away with a new outlook on life and an opportunity to better myself for me, and for my family. And I plan to pursue a career in special education to help special needs people.

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Graduate #4, Session 13
The most important decision that I have made recently was to enter the CWJC program. The journey here has been a long one. Many people have been pushing me to inquire for several years, but I could not bring myself to do so. Of course I had a lot of reasons. My cousin, a former CWJC graduate, and my mom were very persistent. They would not give up. When I found out that CWJC was offering childcare, I knew that my excuses were unfounded.

I was very nervous when I made the appointment with the site coordinator. I did not know what to expect. The only thing that I knew for certain was that there would be change. Change, in my experience, generally did not represent anything positive.

As the date approached, my anxiety grew. It is a good thing that I had made the appointment for the following week because I probably would have cancelled had it been sooner. The site coordinator’s last words to me on the telephone were, “I’ll see you on Thursday, February 1 at 1:00. Don’t miss the appointment. Call in advance if you can’t make it.”

On February 1, at 3:30 in the morning, my sister called to tell up that one of our dearest family friends had had a heart attack and was taken to the hospital. While I was getting ready to go, the call came that he had passed. He was only 58 years old.

I have been to five funerals in the past eight years: my sister, my nephew, my childhood best friend, my cousin and now another friend. All of their deaths were sudden, with no warning. I have had trouble finding my way out of the pits of depression after so many losses. So that morning on February 1, I knew that I had an important decision to make. Should I go to the hospital to be with family and friends or should I attend the meeting at CWJC? I knew in my heart that if I missed the meeting that I would never reschedule. The sadness of losing another loved one would suck me back down into that pit, where I would probably waste another year, or two, or ten.

As I struggled with the decision, I heard a familiar scripture in my heart, “Why seek ye the living among the dead?” Luke 24:5. I knew I had to take this step in order to join the living again. It felt like a last resort. So, I kept my appointment. Even though I cried during the majority of the interview, I felt deep in my soul that this is where I needed to be, where I was supposed to be.

This experience has been difficult for most of us (in this class). I have had to reach deeper and open up more than I ever anticipated. In the process, though, I have bonded with my teachers and with this exceptional group of women that I so proudly call my new friends. We have been through a lot together in a short period of time. I have learned something from every one of them. I look forward to getting to know them better in the years to come.

The most important decision that I have made recently caused me to regain my strong faith, showed me that there are many, many good and strong women of faith in this world whom I now admire so much. It has also given me the gift of friendship in my fellow participants. I can now see into the future with hope.

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Graduate #5, Session 13
What is thankfulness? Where does it come from? Where does it begin and end? Are you thankful because of the money you have, the success you have achieved or maybe even the independence you have gained for yourself?

Many times in life it takes only one overwhelming experience to jolt you into a mindset of being thankful. It is hard to focus on just one thing or person to be especially thankful for, due to the fact you are always growing within yourself and finding new things to make you grateful. However, at this particular time in life I find myself most thankful for my eighteen-year-old son.

These past four years it has been so overwhelming, as well as the greatest joy, to watch him turn into a true young man and come to know what he wants to do with his life. So many adults speak of his good manners, his happiness and his great personality. Teachers are quick to tell me what a true joy and positive person he is in class. The principal of his high school wrote in her referral letter that he does not take the easy road and always gives one hundred and ten percent.

My son has decided to pursue the profession of physical therapy. He is doing so with a great ambition to motivate and help people back to a healthy workable lifestyle. I take great pride in my son. He is the best part of me. When I look at him it is hard to realize that the constant place that he has filled in my life will be ever changed as he goes off to college to fulfill his dreams for the life he wants for himself.

As for myself, it is time for me to realize that one part of motherhood is over and the grown up part of my son’s life is off to a glowing start. I am so thankful to CWJC for the guidance gained, the wisdom of new ideas and the ability to carve a new pathway for myself filled with anxious hopes and dreams. The hope I have for my son is that he will always be thankful for the person he has come to be and remember the people who helped him when he struggled — the teacher who reassured him beyond any doubt that he could achieve a goal, a coach that confided that he was so much more than he was given the opportunity to be and the boss who instilled in him the utmost confidence and inspired him to always, always strive for more. However, first and foremost, may he always be humble towards God, for He is the reason that my son exists and He is responsible for the person he has become.

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Graduate #6, Session 13
Christian Women’s Job Corps has done so many things for my life. This program has provided the foundation for a new freedom and a new happiness.

When I first started here I was lost inside and had a feeling of hopelessness. Through lessons and Bible study, I have grown spiritually and I love knowing God’s word. I have learned to believe in the Lord and have faith even when times are troublesome. I have gained more confidence and I am able to believe in myself.

Also, the skills I have obtained from computer class, language arts and finance class I will be able to use the rest of my life. Next, the guidance from my teachers, my mentor, my new friends and, most of all, the Lord has shown me that there is love all around me. I hope I will be able to give back some of the time and love that was given to me by all these wonderful people. I look forward to coming here (CWJC) every day to learn and just to be in the company of everyone. It gives me a great feeling of joy.

Finally, the friendships that I have attained here are unbelievable. The wonderful women that I have been with every day for twelve weeks (at CWJC) have really touched my heart. They are a part of my life now and I could never repay them in a million years. I love them all dearly from the bottom of my heart. They will be in my thoughts for the rest of my life.

Overall, this program has been a blessing from God to me. It has given me skills that I can use to further myself in my next job. Also I can look at myself and know I am smart. I know that I can do anything I set my mind to. I am very thankful to everyone who took time to teach, share life stories and just be there when I needed them. CWJC is a wonderful program for any woman in need of improving themselves and their life. I want to thank everyone at CWJC and I also want to thank my family for being supportive and encouraging.

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I called CWJC to find out more about the program and after my phone conversation, I was unsure about I should do. So, I got alone with God and asked Him, and His reply was, “Go to CWJC first.” I asked. God answered and that settled it.

I finally did it! After twenty-one years, I am finally graduating from a school to prove to myself that I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me, and also to prove to my children and others that when you walk with God anything is possible. It’s never too late to better yourself.

God says in His word, “He will always give you a way out.” He never says it will be easy. Sometimes He gives a door and other times He gives a window. It’s a lot harder to get through a window, but God will get you through it and the victory will be greater on the other side. CWJC has been so much more that I imagined. Not only has my knowledge been expanded, my relationship with the Lord has grown beyond my expectations.

There are not enough words to express my thanks to everyone who plays a part in CWJC, so I will use the words of my Father God, “Every generous act and every perfect gift comes from the Father above.” God has used you, teachers and fellow students, to bring about blessings in every area of my life. You have all been sent from God and I thank you.

I would also like to thank some of my greatest blessings — my husband, my daughters and my son. Also, I’d like to thank my extended family, friends, mentors and counselors. Thank you for carrying me through the valleys. I couldn’t have made it without you. I am now employed and will be preparing for college where I hope to become a Naturopathic and/or a Homeopathic doctor. I may be going through a window, but I am looking forward to the greater victory on the other side.

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Graduate #2, Session 14
My time with CWJC has been an incredible journey for me.

Twenty-four years ago I became a young, single mother. I wasn’t able to finish college and as a result, I took whatever jobs I could to provide for my child. Eventually, I married and my family grew. I worked part-time, which allowed me to be there for my family. I enjoyed my jobs working with children and volunteering in the community. I could tell a children’s Bible story with animation and props, but hadn’t participated in an adult Bible study; therefore, I was not maturing spiritually. My total focus in life had become my family. I had given up on all of my dreams.

With my children growing up, I realized that I was unable to move on to a career, which was something I had dreamed of when I was much younger. I thought that dream was over when I became a mother. Then I heard about CWJC.

I was surprised at what I would learn in the next twelve weeks. When we started the computer class I was unaware that “booting up” the computer meant turning it on. Now, with the help of very patient teachers, not only can I “boot up” the computer, but I am also familiar with several programs.

The financial class helped me to not only do basic household budgeting, but also to have a vision of a financially secure future. I have learned that the small changes I make now will result in drastic changes later. I now understand and look forward to financial peace. 

The daily Bible study class and memorization of scripture helped me in my daily walk and helped me establish a mature relationship with the Lord. The support I received through CWJC gave me the hope and confidence to obtain the future that I never dreamed possible. My mentor has been wonderful, caring and a supportive source of encouragement. I thank all of you at CWJC. This ministry is truly a vessel for the Lord’s work.

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Graduate #3, Session 14
God has a plan. Everything that occurs, good or bad, is part of that grand design. When bad things happen, we complain. We rage at God and ask why. We get indignant and pout. It can shatter our faith and make us question our own beliefs, but it doesn’t change God’s mighty plan at all.

I came to CWJC wanting to learn to write a resume and to have something to put on it. It was a trivial, superficial reason, but it got me to the door. I wanted other people to be proud of me. It never occurred to me to be proud of myself. God had a plan, though.

My faith came and went. It was destroyed and rebuilt. All of the women here — teachers, participants, mentors and coordinators — rose to each challenge. They never let me go. Struggles and trials were met head on with prayer and support and we were strengthened.

I learned so much more than I expected. I suppose we all have. I learned about God’s mighty power, the power of prayer and about letting the good in. We each came for this reason or that. And we’ll all leave with something different. I believe, though, that we have all come to believe in the base scripture of this program.” For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “Plans to prosper you and not to harm you; plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11

I don’t know where I’ll go from here. I would like to go back to school and become a teacher or a counselor. For now, my goal and my prayer is for the Lord to open my eyes and show me where He wants me to be and for Him to create in me a willing heart to recognize and accept it.

God has a plan. Questioning it or complaining about it won’t change it. We have to make a choice. We can fight and resist and end up in our own self-pity. Or we can accept it, learn from it and grow — so we can be stronger for the next adventure.

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Graduate #4, Session 14
I want to thank God for helping me in my walk in life. Without God, I could not make my life’s goal. He is always there for me.

I came to Christian Women’s Job Corps to learn computer skills, but I have learned so much more. I thank all of the teachers for donating so much of their time to help me develop my goals.

After my husband passed away in 2006, I found myself needing to return to the workforce. I also needed new skills in order to locate a good paying job. My goal was to establish a home for my grandchildren and me.

At CWJC, I learned how to study my Bible in depth, as well as how to manage my finances. In addition, I was taught how to set boundaries for myself. CWJC has helped me rise above my circumstances.

Thank you again to all the teachers, my classmates, my mentor, my Dad, my grandson and all of my family that prayed for me. You helped me to reach my goal — working as a receptionist in an office. It has been a life-changing opportunity.

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Graduate #5, Session 14
Christian Women’s Job Corps has truly been an answered prayer, yet strange as it may sound, it was not answered as I had originally hoped.

My prayer was simple. I needed an education and I felt CWJC was a good place to receive one. I knew, after all, that it was a Christian organization and they offered computer skills. So I prayed.

But I feel Gods’ first answer must have been “wait”, because I prayed this prayer for almost a year before I received what I thought was a “yes”. I have since learned that my prayer was not answered with a simple yes, but instead with an incredible, wondrous, elevating “Yes”!

Just being able to be around all of these wonderful Christian women and men on a daily basis has been a blessing. They have been truly inspiring. They have not only been accepting and supportive, but honest as well. And they have taught me so much.

Through various lessons, I have learned better ways of communicating in my personal and professional relationships — how to not only listen, but to hear. I now know how to set reasonable healthy boundaries and stick to them. I learned better ways of supporting my husband and children in the choices that they make. And now I believe that I am strong enough to face life’s “lessons”.

There have also been friendships made — real, healthy friendships between women! These friendships are honest and supportive, not catty or “drama” laden. Friendships like these have the potential to grow and last.

And I did learn about computers, as well as finance, nutrition and language arts.

Yet still, as much as I have been blessed by all of these experiences, I received the greatest blessing through our Bible study classes. I learned many new things and remembered a few as well, things like, “Yes, I am a sinner, but more important, I am a Christian. I am a child of God who is unconditionally loved and justly forgiven by the God of all creation. How can I not rejoice? And what do I have to fear?

I would like to thank my husband, children and parents for their continuous support. And to all of the teachers, mentors and friends — thank you for your support, guidance and all of the hugs. Most of all, thank you for reminding me of things that I knew about myself, but had forgotten, or simply stopped believing.

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Graduate #6, Session 14
Coming home after being turned down for yet another job because I lacked computer skills was devastating. I was very discouraged. Then, as I was praying, I happened to glance up and see the Christian Women’s Job Corps sign with the phone number. As always, I asked God for a neon sign and God was faithful. How much more of a sign was there than that?

How could I possibly attend, not to mention the cost? When I found out that the classes were held in Granbury and the cost was free, I knew that was the answer I was looking for. CWJC provided Bible study, mentoring and an education in life and job skills. I experienced growth, enrichment, support and encouragement.

Throughout, I experienced many blessings, a deeper relationship with Christ, hope, self-worth, self-respect and self-sufficiency. I want to thank everyone for their support — the site coordinators, instructors, my mentor and my classmates. I made many new friendships and I feel very blessed.

My dear husband recently passed away and due to the support and kindness of others I am at CWJC. I plan to get a job with a non-profit organization to pass on what others have done for me.

Psalm 40:5 “Lord my God, you have done many things, your wonderful works and your plans for us; none can compare with you. If I were to report and speak of them, they are more than can be told.

How can I not succeed?

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