Brandi

July 3, 2002

Dear Linda,
I just wanted to take this time to write you a short letter to let you know I love you and appreciate all you have done for me in the past year. I sometimes have a hard time saying just how I feel but you already know that. Thank you for welcoming me into your home and your heart with open arms. You are one of God’s most precious tools. I am proud to say that I am one of your daughters. The memory of my time spent with you, in your home will always be a cherished memory that is kept near and dear to my heart. You taught me a great deal about life and the program, family and myself. You showed me that true meaning of unconditional love as you taught me how to love myself. I was given a safe place to practice all of the new values and principles I was being taught. You tried to protect me from the bumps and bruises. You held my hand as I learned to walk through life on life’s terms. I have no doubt today that I am a beautiful child of God and I never have to drink or use again. You helped me believe that. Your home is God’s home and it is the best-kept secret of Orange County. Thank you for your love, support, kindness caring, and ever discipline. I doubt I would be where I am today in my life and my program had I lived in any other house with any other mentor. You, your house and all the women of the Eleventh Step House, past, present, and future, are miracles. Thank You!

Sincerely,
Brandie Yvette Hatke