The Journey of a Single Mother and Jehovah's Witnesses: Your Choice, or Destiny?

As a single mother of three children, facing the daily challenges of supporting my family without the aid of the state or my ex-partner, every moment of my life was dedicated to providing for my children. In time, the influence of a fellow Jehovah's Witness neighbour became an integral part of our lives. This article delves into my personal experience and the path I undertook from the age of 67 to becoming a Jehovah's Witness, and reflects on the spiritual journey that followed.

Introduction to my family life

I was a single mother to a set of three children, and I did not receive any help from the state or their father. The burden of keeping my family fed and clothed, as well as ensuring their basic needs were met, fell solely on my shoulders. In one of our neighbourhoods lived a baby sitter who was a member of Jehovah's Witnesses. Understanding the importance of stability and consistency in their lives, I allowed my children to spend time at her home and attend the Kingdom Hall. This decision was not without its consequences.

The Awakening and Initial Encounters

When my eldest child was 67 and the youngest was 8, the babysitter introduced my children to the Kingdom Hall. A year later, she brought home four books titled "From Paradise Lost to Paradise Regained," one of which she presented to me and urged me to study the Bible with her and the rest of her fellow Witnesses. This was a significant step in their lives, and it would ultimately lead to a profound transformation in our own.

The Unexpected Health Crisis

Life took an unexpected turn when my youngest son, Terry, was diagnosed with Leukemia at the age of 11. Initially, he seemed to handle the news with resilience, but his condition rapidly deteriorated. One day, I noticed that Terry looked pale and weak, and upon asking him if he was feeling unwell, he could only make noises rather than speak. A visit to the doctor confirmed the fears of our family. The doctors recommended immediate hospitalization, and the biopsy results returned devastating news: Terry had only a short time left to live.

A Final Conversation

During this difficult period, Terry's faith remained strong. He believed in the resurrection and often expressed his belief that he would see his family again in the new order. One day, as I visited his room, he looked weak and asked if he was dying. In a poignant moment, Terry pointed to me and said, "Mom, all you have to do is go to the Kingdom Hall and do what's right, and I will see you in the new order."

The Journey to Faith

After Terry's passing, I found myself drawn to the Scriptures and the literature that accompanied me. I began to study on my own, reading, looking up scriptures, and taking notes. The profound impact of these studies and the emotional support I sought from the Witnesses community motivated me to adjust my work schedule so that I could attend all the meetings. The journey to baptism was a natural next step, and a year after Terry's passing, I was baptized as one of Jehovah's Witnesses.

A Vision for the New Order

The future outlined by Jehovah's Witnesses presents a compelling vision, a future where love, peace, and harmony prevail. I look forward to the day when I can be reunited with Terry and his older brother, who passed away when he was 19. In this new order, Terry and his brother will be able to enjoy life without the fear and pain that defined their lives on Earth. I envision playing with them, as well as with other children, in a place where animals, including lions and tigers, will not pose any threat.

Conclusion

My journey as a Jehovah's Witness from a secular background to a committed member of the faith has been transformative. The experiences of my family, especially Terry's, have underscored the importance of faith, support, and community in times of crisis. The promise of a new order, where loved ones are reunited and peace prevails, is a beacon of hope for my family and me.