I say that in a good way... See if you know you my story, or knew me in high school, you would know that I made some very unwise choices. You would know that I had no regard for my life. You would know that I was crazy and I'm sure that many of you thought you would attend my funeral by my 21st birthday. I always thought that I wouldn't make it to my 18th birthday and when it happened I was shocked.
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| (I debated adding this picture of Bobby, Conrad and I from when were about 17) |
When I was 19 I received the biggest wake-up call ever. I was driving home to Big Bear Lake and either passed out at the wheel or because I was so drunk just don't remember what happened. I ended up totaling my truck into the mountain and running from the Cops. Those actions landed me in jail being charged with 2 felonies and a slew on misdemeanors. I went to church the next week while I was awaiting my court date and my moms friend looked at me and said: "I had a dream you were a pastor and leading thousands of people to the Lord." I did not return to church because of that comment.
In the next few months of my life I lost everything; literally. After going to jail a few more times I ended up in jail on February 14th 2000 and said something like: "Jesus I need you; if you're real please get me outta here." God answered that prayer. I meet a guy five days later who invited me to church; Brett Wheeler if you never reached out to me I have no clue where I would be.
Fast-forward ten years, one month, and fifteen days. I gave my life to Jesus Christ because the path I had chose was not working and needed some help. I have an amazing wife. I have been blessed with two beautiful daughters and I get to share with high school students about how to follow Christ in their life. God has healed me of my drug and alcohol addiction. I have internal peace and don't feel the anger that used to control my life.
I look back and if you told me twelve years ago that this is where I would be in life I think I would have laughed at you, maybe spit in your face, and went on with my life. God thank you for changing me and putting me where you have placed me...
I never imagined my life would end up like this but I wouldn't change it for anything!
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| My Family: Charity, Sophie, and Leah |
5 comments:
Neal...every time I see your blogs I am amazed by you...I did infact know that Neal in high school and what you say is true!!! All I can say is that God works in mysterious ways...
Take care,
Summer
Neal,
I am so happy for you and your family. Everyday I read your posts and I can honestly say that you motivate me to not only want to know Christ better but to just be a better person.
Sorry the last post was from Carrie. I forgot to add that.
Thanks for the encouragement; its crazy what God can do when you let Him lead and learn to follow...
Its been a fun life!
I really hope you know how much Tucker and I look up to you and Charity...you both are very strong inspiring people. Thank you for showing us what true love is, with God, and each other. You guys have such a beautiful family, I loved seeing the bunch in action today when Kinzi and I visited =) I cant begin to describe how excited I am for you guys!
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