Monday, April 13, 2009

miracle


















This Easter weekend my family and I experienced one of the best examples of the Atonement of our Savior. We saw in action what turning our lives over to the Savior can do if we let him in and change our hearts and life.

We had the opportunity to visit Boggs in Vista, Ca. at Greenoaks Ranch a retreat center. He was lucky enough to be accepted for Rehabilitation there. Many times of the 20 years he has been addicted to drugs and alcohol I have wondered if this would be the day we would find him dead. Most certainly there have been many painful events because of his addiction. The most painful part was watching him continue to choose the path and not be able to see the path to recovery so close to him.

This weekend the difference was he has opened up his heart to the possibility that he to deserves peace and happiness no matter the horrors of his former self. He is so into the Bible I am ashamed to say he knows more than me. He shared his favorite scripture to date with us that keeps him going when he feels the despair. it is Philippians 3:12-21 "but this thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth to those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus"

I am so grateful to all the staff, pastors and others around him who have given him the will, and tools to start his recovery. I feel gratitude to the owners of this ranch worth millions in a posh part of San Diego that have resisted developement and lease it to the recovery community.

When we arrived he could not wait to show us around and meet all his new found friends. He showed us the amazing facility. There was a little stream and pond running through the property and ancient oaks shading the stream. There were trail all around leading up the hillside . An animal center with baby goats , ewes, lhamas, bobcat( the girls fave) and snakes and duck . A giant ball field, amphitheater, and pool. He was so proud of the kitchen were he has been working the past few months as well as the improvement to the ranch he has worked on . ( the brigde.)

We were able to spend the day at the beach with him and do a little shopping for much needed items.

Most everyone there is from SD County and have visitors weekly. So he has been a little lonely and wanting to share his change with thoses he loves , his family. If you want to write him and share your words of love and encouragement ,
Here is his address: 1237 Green Oak Road, Vista , Ca 92081

Here are some of the pics we took this weekend. You can see the light in his eyes.
(more pics on face book)