A Journey Toward Healing and Purpose
Recently, I received approval to purchase a few items to support my job search. I’ve been receiving counseling and career guidance through a nonprofit organization that helps people overcome barriers to employment.
One recommendation from my counselor was to get a fidget spinner ring — something to help with anxiety during interviews. I’ve struggled with anxiety for years. Sometimes, it shows up as uncontrollable tremors or nervous movements, especially in stressful or unfamiliar situations.
The suggestion struck a chord with me because I had once worn a signet spinner ring engraved with the Serenity Prayer — a daily reminder of peace, strength, and surrender:
“God grant me the Serenity to accept the things I cannot change,
Courage to change the things I can,
And the wisdom to know the difference.”
A Season of Loss
Four years ago, I was abducted and robbed. The thieves harmed me and took everything — my clothes, computer, phone, wallet, photographs, and gifts from my children. One of the last things they did was take that ring straight from my finger.
That traumatic event left deep scars. I not only lost possessions — I lost a part of myself. Yet even in that darkness, God never stopped working. Through prayer, counseling, and the love of others, healing slowly began to take place.
Finding Serenity Again
Now, as part of my experience at Serenity Street Foundation, I’m learning to trust God again — and to trust the process.
In addiction and recovery, we lose many things: careers, friends, financial security, even relationships with family members we deeply love. Sometimes, like my ring, those losses come through tragedy or injustice. But in both cases, the truth remains:
God restores.
Through surrender, we allow God to rebuild what was broken — not just in our circumstances, but within our hearts.
God’s Promise of Restoration
The Bible reminds us in Joel 2:25–26 (NIV):
“I will repay you for the years the locusts have eaten….
You will have plenty to eat, until you are full,
And you will praise the name of the Lord your God,
who has worked wonders for you.
Never again will my people be shamed.”
This verse captures exactly what I’ve experienced through Serenity Street — a journey of restoration, peace, and renewed purpose.
A New Ring, A New Beginning
Today, I again wear a signet ring inscribed with the Serenity Prayer. But this one carries even deeper meaning.
When I see it, I don’t just think of the words — I think of how God used people through a job counseling program, the Serenity Street team, my sponsors, and countless others to restore more than a ring.
He restored my confidence, my faith, and my ability to believe that His plan for me is still unfolding. The shame that once hovered over me after that traumatic event has lifted — replaced by gratitude, hope, and purpose.
Forever Grateful
I’m forever thankful — to God, to the Serenity Street Foundation, and to every counselor, sponsor, and supporter who continues to believe in restoration through faith.
This ring isn’t just jewelry.
It’s a symbol of grace — a reminder that God restores all things in His perfect timing.
About Serenity Street Foundation
Serenity Street Foundation provides safe, structured sober living for men in recovery in Columbus, Ohio. Through faith-based support, accountability, and community, residents rebuild their lives and rediscover hope.
32 E. Woodrow Avenue, Columbus, OH 43207
(614) 738-0463
