Nicole's Story
I was 7 years old when my grandma passed away, and my step dad began abusing me in various ways. This nightmare went on until I was 13. There was little to no parental guidance in my life. I did not know my real dad and my mom was abusing drugs. At the age of 13, I was raped by a boy from school. I became pregnant and had an abortion. My step dad told me if I didn't, he would kick me out of the house. I began hanging out with negative influences and started using sex to ease my pain, not realizing I was actually adding to my problems.
Much to my dismay, I became pregnant again at age 15. My mom was put in jail during this time, so I began living with various friends and family members. My mom made the decision to come to New Life Women's Center. At the time, I thought she was abandoning me, once again. I now realize she needed to get her life together before she could be capable of being a mom to me. In addition, because I knew I was not capable of being a mom to my own child, I put her up for adoption with the help of CPS.
I knew it was time to change my life, so I applied to a program called Mercy Ministries. While I was waiting to be accepted, I met my biological dad for the first time. I thought all of my problems were solved. I wanted a relationship with my dad so much. The thought of him rejecting me, if he really knew who I was, made me realize that I needed to follow through with going to Mercy Ministries.
Mercy Ministries was a good experience, but I found myself so consumed with wanting to be with my dad, that I left the program prematurely. After 2 months of living with my dad my stay ended in disaster. I became more depressed to the point where I thought of running away and committing suicide.
New Life Students Rosa (left) and Nicole (right)
In the meantime, my mom graduated from New Life Women's Center. This gave me hope, so I made the decision to come here, as well. This place is so amazing. I am accepted for who I am, not just by everyone here, but most importantly, by God.
My biological dad once told me that we would go dancing. Well, we never went. But, when I came to New Life Women's Center, I got saved and I did dance with my Father. Not my biological father, but my Heavenly Father.
I knew there was a God, but I was afraid to trust Him for fear of more abuse and neglect. But now I know different.
You might feel alone, but you're not. If you've been abused, you won't be anymore. Just hold onto God. He will deliver you. He did it for me and He will do it for you. — Nicole