My name is Stacey Silvers and I started hanging out at night and drinking when I was 12 or 13 years old, not caring to go home to face the unmanageable living situation.  I started smoking marijuana at this time as well ,and that found me in and out of Strickland Youth Center for everything from children in need of supervision, public drunk and underage drinking.  My life was out of control and at 13 years of age, I was introduced to crack cocaine.  For the next 18 years, I was what’s known as a closet user, never letting anyone know, because of the guilt and shame I felt behind my use of drugs.  The way society stereotypes people who smoke crack and other drugs caused me great shame and guilt.  I tried geographical changes over and over with no luck because it was everywhere.

When I sought help from man, I ended up in an abusive relationship that with my increased use of drugs and alcohol should have been the death of me.  My Lord, my God, said no.  He had a purpose for my life and if I would make one step, He would make ten.  I was at the point of losing my children, my finances, and my mother’s trust.  I had already lost my car, my job, and my home.  When I felt like I could call on no one else, the Lord showed me I could call on him.  I went to a treatment facility and stayed a week, feeling like I was all better to return home.  I allowed Satan to convince me that after 18 years of not being able to stop on my own, that after one week I was all better and had changed for good.  I was ok for about 2 weeks and I did get my car back, but as soon as I did, I was back sneaking around doing the same old things I had done before only now it was worse.

I made the decision to go back to treatment, but DHR would not pay for treatment again. I left the treatment center after a week the last time.  I knew I had to do something, but what?  I prayed and prayed and the Lord guided me to a place called Franklin.  They told me what to do to get help and I listened and followed their guidelines.  I learned that God will give you peace through your storms to endure life’s trials as well as Satan’s.  God’s love and mercy has given me the peace and strength to endure.  The people in authority are truly leaders and children of God whom HE placed in my life for His purpose and glory.  To all that reads this, may God’s blessings be with you today as you go through your trials and remember, it only takes the faith the size of a mustard seed to move mountains.

I have seen God work since my graduation on July 25, in many different ways.  He gave me my children back. I praise God daily that He has restored my life and family back to me.  I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me (Phil. 4:13).  Remember to pray Mel’s Arsenal Prayer Daily!!!It really helps because it is God’s Word.