Celebrating Todd!

When Todd was laid off in November of 2009, it was by far the most devastating thing we'd experienced. Both of our hearts were broken. Both of us were ripped apart inside as the "family" we thought we were a part of betrayed us. I felt torn between supporting my husband and working for the company he now despised.

I can't explain adequately what I watched my husband go through. What he did was who he was. When it was taken away, his identity was too. Heart broken, spirit broken, hope broken - everything was broken within him. I couldn't do anything for him, I couldn't undo what had been done and I couldn't heal the wound that was gaping in his heart. I watched as day after day he sunk to a new low. There were many times he didn't answer his phone and my heart would stop. I even called the neighbor to check on him. His pain was real and consuming and it scared me.

God has been our ever-constant companion throughout the whole ordeal. At first, He surrounded us with loving friends and family who made themselves ready to listen, support and encourage both of us. Then, God provided me with a new opportunity at work which gave me new focus and began to rebuild the confidence we lost. God provided opportunity for Todd to minister in new ways through Hope Lives. He showed Todd what He wanted him to do next though contacts made at that event. God provided for us financially. He provided for us spiritually and emotionally. He's listened when we cried, been patient with our anger and restored us in our suffering.

A year later, Todd is doing well. He's worked to overcome his hurt and fears. He's worked to improve his relationships with both of our girls. He's worked to become a better husband. If that were all he'd accomplished, I'd be as pleased as punch.

But it's not. In August, he went back to school for massage therapy and today, we celebrate his first semester GPA of a 4.0! He has used his circumstances to reach out to others. In addition to visiting several churches to share with them Hope Lives (the RFBC community outreach event held in the spring), he's spoken to individuals and groups about what he's been through and how he's chosen to overcome it. I am so proud of my husband!