TESTIMONY


Like many, I doubted and questioned God’s existence.  Prior to my near-death experience, I was very rebellious, defiant, living care-free and wanted absolutely nothing to do with the institution of religion.  Therefore, after dying and entering back into the earthly realm, I found myself scared, shocked, and confused faced with an overabundance of questions.   Of course the primary one being...why me?!   I wasn’t sure how to transition from a total life of sin (living a reckless lifestyle) to one of accountability, holiness, and righteousness.  Therefore, I kept quiet to alleviate judgment.  It was easier that way.  It was less scrutiny to endure.  And, I didn't have to be a target of ridicule or engage in exhausting conversations to prove God is actually real.  Being a private person, I was terrified to reveal such a personal experience.  It would require opening up about my life, my death, and failures. Who wants to do that?!  Ultimately, it would mean sharing every aspect of my life with the world. Believe me, there's a major expectation and cross to bear when you've been blessed to have such an experience. Then, factor in the ultimate blessing to hear our creator's voice!  It was overwhelming.  It was riveting.  And, I was petrified! 

For a long time, I struggled with my experience. I wasn't sure what God wanted me to do with our encounter. I simply thought that he wanted me to change the way I had lived from a reckless platform to forming a closer relationship with him. Yet, as I silently continued my walk, I realized that  more was required. I wasn't fulfilling my purpose. I wrote television and film treatments for Independent Producers and still felt unfulfilled. I went through my daily life and it felt like something was missing.  Then, I decided to step out on faith. I felt the holy spirit pushing me.  I actually wrote a book about my experience after my friend pressed me for months.  It's funny how even after I completed the book, I still put it off.  I didn't pitch it out of fear.  Until, I met a middle aged editor from rural Iowa. That's when I had an ah-ha moment! I knew she would be perfect from a contrast perspective. She was a Christian and less likely to think my claim was insane. But could she relate?  Especially considering my experience dealt with growing up in Detroit as a teen, exposed to the fast life, violence, peer-pressure, drug dealers, drive by shootings, teen deaths, teen pregnancies and the list goes on. But, when she called that same night and told me that she couldn't put my book down (finishing it the same evening).  I knew it was a story that had to be told.
Please understand, if you are struggling with your spiritual walk, that you are not alone. I continue to pray and grow stronger as I prepare to take the main stage in sharing my story. Thank you for following me on this journey.  I welcome your comments and encouragement.  Please be sure to share this page on your Facebook, Twitter, Blog, and email.  Word of mouth is truly the best way to share God's goodness and his word. 

Stay tuned and be blessed!

T. Marie Bell


6 comments:

  1. I cannot wait to read this book! I believe your experience will touch many lives, just reading this blog sparked my interest!

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  2. Thank you so very much for your gracious comment! I'm working to bring my book to a store near you soon. :) I just have to stay in prayer on the Agent that's entered my life as well as a Publisher to go with. God is good! I'm leaning all over him for direction on this one. :) Thanks again for your support! Be blessed.

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  3. I am so glad to hear you speak your truth. When we do that it becomes an inspiration to others. We know that a single smile may change the day for another person, in turn changing the way they react to others and how those people interact with others they come in contact with. Know that your many words will touch the lives of countless individuals. Be blessed. Stay true.

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    1. Urszula, you are exactly correct. We each carry a light inside of us that burn with endless possibilities. Our job is to illuminate that light to others, to brighten their day, offer them hope, and make this world a better place. I really appreciate your encouragement. Your comment was really touching and I totally receive it. I am trusting in God for this book to come into fruition and I hope to touch many. Thank you thank you thank you for your belief!

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  4. Tea!! This is awesome!!! You are using your story to Bless others! So proud :) Love J

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    1. Thank you Jada!!! I'm walking in my calling and excited to do it. Stay tuned!

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