Take God Seriously!
A former client of Rumah Kepercayaan (RK) — a halfway home for women, Sarah’s story highlights the challenges of reintegration and the vital role RK played in offering her a fresh start. Through her candid reflections, she shares the struggles, growth and hope that shaped her path forward. Joelin, a staff from CARE had the privilege to speak to Sarah.
Sarah, how was life at RK during all those years?
I re-entered RK many times, but I was never serious about changing and continued to live on drugs. Many times, I told myself that I would change, but in the end, I did not. Each time I was sent to RK, I wanted to leave the home soon. But in 2018, my perspective changed, and I no longer wished to leave RK that quickly. I began to feel God’s presence and started to take God seriously.
What was it like on your final day at RK in 2018?
I had a lot of mixed feelings – excitement, fear and panic. I was excited to have the freedom of mobility. I was also anxious, thinking I would be alone, with no one to help me. I worried if I could fit in and how many people knew about my past. I tried to hide these feelings, but in reality I was more scared than anything! Suddenly, I was out in the world, unsure of how I would cope and wondering whom to turn to if I faced issues.
How are you doing at your workplace?
Right now, I am caring for an elderly lady. After I left RK in 2018, I went back to work at a children’s home. I had experience working in homes before, so I was quite used to working with children, even those with challenges. I handled young girls of different ages, many from broken families. My worries and fears disappeared as I settled in. I had more responsibilities as the mother of the home and built good relationships with the home committee as I strived to do my best. As I aged, my strength became limited, and I eventually resigned to take a break. After that, I was recommended by a prison volunteer to care for this elderly lady, which has gone well.
Who are the people who have been journeying with you in integrating back into the community?
I am all alone in this world as I do not have any family members or children; as the saying goes, “sebatang kara.” Sungai Way Christian Church (SWCC) is a blessing to me, as they have treated me well. I have never experienced such a warm welcome, and they have been like a family to me. They celebrate my birthdays and consistently bring me to church every Sunday. I lack nothing; I have everything that a normal person should have.
How has God played a role in your life, and what hopes do you have for the future?
In 2017, a message on a prison wall that said “God is good” made me question, “If God is good, why am I here?” Those words lingered, leading me to reflect deeply on God and my life. The book of Proverbs revealed how foolishly I had been living, and I saw many friends lost to drugs and isolation. Like the Israelites in the wilderness, I had wandered, but God’s grace kept me. Today, I treasure life and those around me, and I hope to age gracefully, care for myself, and live in peace. I am ever grateful to God for giving me the chance to rebuild my life with the help of Malaysian CARE staff and their volunteer, Sis. Pik Wah, who never gave up on me.
What are the characteristics of a church that could help in the re-integration of ex-prisoners?
A close-knit church is crucial. Treat the person as an ordinary person, with respect, and not according to their past. We have very low self-esteem and can keenly sense unwelcoming gestures from people around us. Sincere gestures, words and actions help people like us feel comfortable and accepted. My church members took the initiative to reach out to me, and gradually I felt comfortable and opened up to them. They encouraged me: “The past is the past. You are Sarah now; we see you as Sarah.” Those words moved me a lot and helped make me the person I am today.
What would you say to a person who has been released from prison?
You must be serious with God; He is real. Open your heart and let God make the transformation; we cannot do it ourselves. Be aware of the consequences before you do something. I know it is hard, as we face a lot of prejudice and stigma. Leave it behind and look ahead, because there will be good people around – be patient. While you have a chance to live life again, appreciate it. Take life seriously!
Taken from Malaysian CARE’s quarterly newsletter – Care Contact, Jan 2025 Edition.