Brigid's Hope: A New Beginning

by Darlene Ross

I can truly say it is only through my higher power's divine grace and intervention in my life, and the help of the Brigid's Hope program, that I am living an independent and productive life today. It is through the care and concern of the people of the Brigid's Hope program providing me with positive skills that my life was turned in the right direction. They gave me a sense of hope and independence and the guidance that was needed to increase my spirituality and self-esteem.

My past life consisted of selling and using drugs, being involved in other criminal activities, and going in and out of jails and other institutions. The main character defect I had was seeking the love of others for all the wrong reasons. I had no sense of values or meanings within life.

Upon my last release from prison, I was supposed to be paroled to Sally's House here in Houston, but instead I was sent to a halfway house in Beaumont, where obtaining a job was difficult because of its rules and regulations. When I learned it would take six to eight weeks to process my parole transfer to Houston, my hopes of having a new start in life were devastated. Through prayer and determined belief that the Lord would provide, my parole transfer to Sally's House was finally approved.

When I arrived at Sally's House, my higher power immediately started doing for me what I could not do for myself. Doors and opportunities began to open for me in all directions, including that of Brigid's Hope. Today I have a permanent job and a bright outlook upon the future. I encourage the newcomers here at Brigid's Hope to take advantage of the suggestions and assistance provided in the program. It's working out for me and it can work for them, because God's loving hands completely surround the Brigid's Hope program and that is all the assurance one needs to succeed.

Darlene Ross entered the Brigid¹s Hope program on June 20, 2001.

To volunteer as a mentor in the Brigid's Hope Project, call Vivienne McLean, the project administrator, 713-590-3318. Training is provided. The need -- and the rewards -- are great.