Many years ago, I made some very bad choices, resulting in some youthful mistakes. My behavior was inexcusable. This was a difficult and trying time in my life. These experiences caused me to seek God like never before.
After much careful reading of the Bible, some deep reflection, and thoughtful prayer, I came to understand that my God forgives me, and that God wants me to be forgiven. So in the name of my God, I have now forgiven myself. I feel so much closer to God now, and I treasure my faith that offers me so much forgiveness. My God's goodness and forgiveness is extended to me. Knowing that I am following God's path for me is a great source of joy in my life.
I want others to know the same joy I feel in my faith. That is why I continue to encourage each of you to follow God's will, and to forgive me as God intends. I know today that many are tempted to sin, and wish to blame and censure me. But no one has to make the mistakes I once made. Everyone should know that God wants them to forgive me and so feel the same joy in their hearts I feel.
I pray that others can learn from my story: how I struggled with sin until I followed God's teachings and forgave myself as my God has done. I pray that others will have the veil of darkness and hate lifted from their hearts, follow the teachings of God, and will forgive me.
I was going down the wrong road, and had I continued, I would have wrecked my life. I believe today that God put those obstacles in my path so that I would learn forgiveness as God intends. There are times in everyone's life when we need help. Today, I can help others by telling them that forgiving me is an important part of my God's plan for all of us.