More than 18 1/2 years ago, a young man whom I directed to Fontainebleau Treatment Center in Mandeville called and asked if I would speak at their Saturday night group meeting. I accepted and was invited back the following week and was told that I was welcome any Saturday that I was free. That was the beginning of Jeanne and me going to Mandeville every Saturday night since February 1994.

Because of budget cuts, the state has decided to close the treatment facility. The Bible says there is a reason for everything. I have to admit that I’ll miss it. It’s been one of the most exciting chapters in our lives.  

Jeanne and I are excited and anxious to see what God has in store for us as we turn the page to a new chapter.  

I would like to share with you the following letter I received last week. It’s letters like this one that made the last 18 1/2 years most rewarding.

“Dear Mr. and Mrs. Keller,

I wanted to write to y’all to tell you how much I appreciated and enjoyed your visits to Fontainebleau Treatment Center this past July. Your humor and sincere desire to spread God’s message really inspired me. (I was the former high school history teacher from north Louisiana if you remember – kinda big and ugly!)

I am currently in Lake Charles, Louisiana, at a halfway house. It’s really a good place where there is great support. I am staying sober and beginning to rebuild my life one small step at a time. I am washing dishes at a local restaurant and am actually grateful for the job.

Anyway, I wanted to let you all know that I have been attending the First United Methodist Church of Lake Charles since my arrival here and will officially join the church this coming Sunday. I am actively seeking a stronger relationship with God, and I wanted you both to know that your visits played a definite role in that decision.

Peace be with you. Thanks and God bless you.

Regards,

J.M.”

If you have any questions or comments, please write to Get High on Life, P.O. Drawer U, Reserve, LA 70084, call 985-652-8477, or email hkeller@comcast.net.