Page 47 - Gary's Book - Final Copy 7.9.2017_Active

If you want to make it through the day when hardships are your continued partner,
then you must have the Lord in your life. Your purpose will be only found in
service to others and being connected to something greater than body, mind and
ego. You cannot make it alone. After my mother released me from her life, it

became apparent to me that we do not accept strangers quickly into our lives.
Staying in eighteen foster homes during the first month, I wondered why some
folks could not find it in their hearts to open their arms and hearts to a young boy
in need of acceptance, care and love.

Not having a mom or dad, I had to associate and relate to some strong figure. First,
I prayed for guidance and direction but never received it. I almost gave up, but a
thought came to me: you do not have a dad, but you have a Father in Heaven. If

that is true, and I had sung “Jesus loves me, the Bible tells me so,” I thought I
would give it time. Where were all those blessings people talked about? I was an
outcast, a misfit, a low-life, trailer trash, an accident that lived. It took years to
rationalize to myself that I had a sound, healthy body with good endurance, was
fairly good-looking and was reasonably intelligent; however, I was a loner. Why
did others not reinforce my feelings that I did, indeed, have these good qualities

and characteristics by encouraging me, guiding me, motivating me or inspiring
me?

Today I always participate as a volunteer in my current church by setting up chairs,
ushering, counting money, and cutting grass. I was on two church boards and was a
senior vestry member. I pray every day at all meals and in the morning and at night
thanking God for letting me attempt to follow in His footprints. My leaders are the

Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost.

Since I know I have an appointment with eternity and that I ultimately will be
leaving this world behind, I have made the decision to prepare the best I can for my
next life. After being married for 54 years and not really knowing how long
“forever” is, I am not about to take a chance on eternity. God never made anything

that does not last. I will exit for all eternity and never be afraid again because I will
be forever. Reflecting upon those I was close to and loved who have died and
crossed over is comforting. Knowing they are in a place where there is no
loneliness, pain or suffering and where they can be fully accepted and, above all,
loved is comforting. They are home with the God of love from whom they came.

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