They are the "Lucky" Ones...

This weekend, we had a group from Teen Challenge that came and shared their testimonies, some R&B/HipHop and some of the programs they do in public schools to make students aware of the effects of drugs & alcohol.  I usually enjoy their presentation, loving to see what God can do with a "messed-up" life.

But this time, I was painfully aware of recent events in my family as these young men shared their stories.  I thought to myself, "These are the lucky ones."  Maybe of their own choosing or someone prayed or dragged or tricked them into the program.  But either way, they were there.  God had helped them overcome their addictions and lifestyles to help lead them on a path to helping others.

I kept thinking about Clarence.  He was seemingly headed in the right direction.  Was making strides to get out of an "unhealthy" lifestyle.  Yet, his life was cut short by someone dealing.  The young man who was caught up in the drugs, carrying a lethal weapon is behind bars.  He's alive.  He's breathing.  He has opportunities (in jail of course), but still has opportunities.  Just doesn't seem right!

I rejoice with these "lucky" ones from Teen Challenge and the path they are headed in.  It also gives me a new drive for those who are close to me and also headed into this path.  It reminds me, I can't do anything about Clarence and the situation he was in, but I can maybe do something about theirs. 

So, I will pray.  I will call.  I will text.  I will do whatever it takes so that they too can become one of the "lucky" ones.