Returning Home—Feeling Out of Place
When I returned to Zimbabwe in 2018, I was a changed person. I could no longer fit into my Christian family, and I wasn’t in good standing with anyone. I moved to my grandmother’s village in Chakari, but life there was even harder than I had imagined. I felt isolated, useless, and misunderstood—especially during the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown. Desperate to escape, I turned to crystal meth. I thought it would help me cope, but it only brought more problems. I deeply regret ever touching it.

A Downward Spiral
At the time, I couldn’t admit that I was becoming the worst version of myself. I supported my addiction by living in denial—day by day, I was losing myself. I did try to get help. I asked for financial support to attend rehab, but no one was able to assist me then. Though I felt the need to stop, I couldn’t do it on my own.

The Turning Point
What finally pushed me toward change was the desire to be normal again—to live a life like other people. I realized that only I could make the decision to stop. I looked at my age mates and saw that many were doing well in life. I wanted a fresh start. But this time, I wanted Jesus to walk with me. I wanted Him to be my comfort instead of drugs and alcohol.

The Struggle to Stay Clean
Quitting wasn’t easy. I was doing it without support. Although I stopped daily use, I would sometimes fall back into old habits—once or twice a month—because of the people I surrounded myself with. Eventually, I learned to stay away from my old friends. That’s when I was finally able to stop using crystal meth, which was my greatest struggle.

I still had to deal with cigarettes and weed, but I kept pushing. I spent more time in church programs, quit smoking first, and then stopped everything else. It’s now been about a year since I last used. I thank Jesus—I’m free!

Family Support and New Purpose
My family supported me with food and accommodation while I tried to rebuild my life. They’re still helping me now as I search for a job. Their understanding has been a huge part of my healing. I’m deeply grateful for the second chance I’ve been given.

A Message to Others Struggling
To anyone still caught in addiction: it’s never too late to change. Ask for help from your family or community. Make it clear that you want to change, because real change starts inside you. No one can help you more than you help yourself. I encourage you to walk the journey with Jesus Christ. He became my best friend when I left behind the old crowd. He can do the same for you.

The Role of Pillar of Legacy Centre
Being part of the Pillar of Legacy Centre has changed my life. It’s far from the distractions of the city, and the quiet setting gives me space to grow. I’ve spent time in community development projects and church programs, which have helped me become a better, more responsible person. Some of the things I’ve done include helping with the construction of a new community library, assisting with building work, operating the milling machine, and supporting the church’s music department. I’ve also helped Pastor Charles and Pastor Mushonga care for the goats and chickens.

My Dream: Helping Others Find Freedom
If I had my own way of giving back, I would volunteer at a recovery camp for people with addictions—a place where they can rediscover themselves and meet a better friend: Jesus Christ. A place where they can learn from those who’ve overcome addiction and return to their lives clean and transformed by God.