Real people, real change

I am Donatas. It so happened that I was drowned in the swamp of alcoholism. Realizing that this should definitely not be a part of my life, as it destroys and harms me, I tried to control, get rid of, or outsmart it many times by choosing other methods of consumption and intoxication. Such decisions were even greater traps, plunging me into a deep and dark daily routine.

After our wedding in 2021, I fell heavily into alcohol. The different personalities of my wife and me, and our outlook on life, turned everything upside down. There was only alcohol and darkness… I didn't want to see or hear anything… I lost the joy of life. The apathy and meaninglessness that took over drowned me even more and distanced me from God, who had saved me more than once and never left me. But my clouded mind could no longer perceive that someone wanted to help me. I simply thought everyone had turned away from me, and I resisted anyone who wanted to help me out of this existential state... But the Lord God had mercy on me once again. Through friends, my wife found help with Arūnas Rutkus at the developing independent living home 'JOKŪBO KOPEČIOS' (Jacob's Ladder), located in the countryside in beautiful surroundings.

And when I was asked if I wanted to go and get treatment, I remember my mind cleared up at that very moment. I remember thinking in my head - 'Here it is, the straw, grab onto it.' And although my body resisted terribly, I agreed to go, no matter what. God's love never ends. Upon arrival, I felt support, peace, and confirmation that I had made an important step in my life. Thanks be to God for Arūnas and his wife, who supported and cared for me. During those few weeks, I regained hope, faith, peace, and confidence. I remember the lessons with Arūnas and the discussions about the Holy Scriptures, and the prayers. It filled me and revived me… All glory to Jesus Christ! By His grace I am saved... His Spirit enveloped and strengthened me, led me out of darkness into light, opened my eyes, and let me see and feel the victory He gave me.

This pierced my heart, and I was shaken by that thought. Although I had read this passage many times before, only now did I realize - how can I defile my body and destroy it?… These thoughts remain in my mind to this day... Thanks be to God for His patience and love.