Immanuel Lutheran Church, Grand Ledge, Michigan

September 2003

A couple of months ago, my Saturday morning Bible study group asked the question: If your wildest dream came true, what would it be? I knew instantly what my dream would be: To be able to read different things such as books and newspapers and things like that. I also knew my dream was coming true. Let me explain.

When I was six years old, I had a hip problem. I was in bed and on crutches and couldn't go to school. I missed the second grade where I would have learned my reading skills. Reading has always been hard for me, and I struggled through school. I finally quit school. I realized this was a problem when my kids were learning to read. I tried to learn with them but lost interest.

When Motor Wheel closed its doors, I decided to go to Adult Education. They said I had a third grade reading level. I was really excited and was planning on getting my diploma, but when funding was cut, the class was gone.

Last Fall, Pastor Rick said that the Adult Sunday School class was going to study the whole Bible from beginning to end. When I found out that we were going to skim through, I decided to read it myself. It was very hard for me, but I was determined, and after five months, I finished it. My dream of being able to read had come true. Everyone asked: "What are you going to do now?" Now, I am studying the Bible. I would really like to help other people who cannot read, so I am working on a project to do that.

Anyone who has seen me in the last few months knows I am "high on life" because my world has changed so much, now that I am able to read and understand what I am reading. I am saved and I know I am. I praise and thank the Lord for giving me the opportunity to make my dream come true. Thank you to my family and friends who have encouraged me to keep trying and never give up. I won't take anything for my journey now. It was a very proud and happy day when my grandson, Caleb, came to me and said, "Grandpa, would you help me read the Bible?"

PRAISE THE LORD!