Donald's Testimony
I grew up in the South, picking cotton and working the tobacco fields. When I discovered the liberation doctrine of the Black Panthers as a youth, I set my roots in New York City.
Boxing has been a big part of my life. I spent two decades as a competitive boxer—even fighting the junior welterweight champion!
I was also fighting against God’s plan. I got into smoking marijuana, graffiti and selling drugs through a peephole in an abandoned apartment.
My mom threw me out for my lifestyle of stealing and getting arrested. Older gang members helped me get fake documents so I could get a job and my own place at age 16.
I worked construction and got into the music scene. Night clubs fed another addiction—sex. I would buy girls drinks and take them home. Waking up in bed with strange women became more and more of a habit.
A moment of clarity came when I thought, “What if someone was doing this to my daughter?”
A man referred me to New York City Rescue Mission, saying, “Maybe you need God in your life.” I had looked into different programs and religions before, but never felt settled.
The first time I was here in the Christian program a few years ago, I realized I needed God. This time, I have received God. The first time, I had to leave due to getting in a fight. This time, God taught me to sit still and stop fighting.
Since being in the Recovery Program since October, I have accepted the fact that I need God. His word is cleansing me.
In the Learning Center I am learning to read. Ms. Jenkins and two tutors are helping me with reading, writing and math. My goals are to graduate the Program, earn my GED and be with my kids again.
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