Though Deaf and Blind, I Found Security/AS TOLD BY JANICE ADAMS

A Time of Testing

In 1992 major depression that was associated with the abuse I suffered as a youth overwhelmed me.  For a couple years I could barely function. I felt handicapped-not by my deafness or blindness-but by my intense emotional turmoil.  Many times I did not think that I could bear to go to the meeting or out in the ministry, and I would beg Jehovah to give me the strength to keep integrity. As a result, I rarely missed a meeting. And I remained regular in my ministry during those dark years. -Matthew 6:33. 

In 1994 we move to Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, to help  with the formation of another sign language congregation.  The move was not an easy one. I left behind a familiar city with many dear friends. Even though I was still not over the depression and anxiety, the joy of seeing a new congregation formed in Vancouver made all the sacrifices worthwhile. I made dear friends in the new congregation, so that it came to feel like home.

Blessed by Our Loving Father

In 1999 my husband and I and two other Witnesses visited Haiti for six weeks to help in the deaf ministry.  Working  in conjunction with the branch office of Jehovah's Witnesses there, we taught a sign language class to the members of the congregation and preached with them in the relatively untouched deaf territory. Ina few weeks , over 30 Bible studies were started with interested deaf ones! I returned home with renewed spiritual vigor and began the full-time ministry as a pioneer in September 1999.  With the help of Jehovah, my dear husband, and supportive congregation, bouts of depression have not robbed me of joy.  

Over the years,I have experienced how tender Jehovah is in affection. (James 5:11)  He takes care of all his people-but especially those with special needs. By means of his organization, I have been able to  receive the New World Translation  of the Holy Scriptures along with many other Bible study aids in Braille. I enjoy conventions and assemblies in sign language. The congregation lovingly supports me by tactile interpreting, signing into my hands, so that I am fully included  in all the meetings.  In spite of a double disability, I have found security  among Jehovah's people. Not only do i receive but I can also give, and this gives me great joy. -Acts  20:35. 

I look forward to regaining both my hearing and my sight in Jehovah's new world. In the meantime I am not one of the loneliest people in the world, but I have  a worldwide family of millions of spiritual brothers and sisters. All this, thanks to Jehovah, who has promised  that he will by no means leave me nor by any means forsake me. Yes, in spite of all the challenges, I can say:  "Jehovah is my helper; I will not be afraid." -Hebrews 13:5, 6.

Next time: Be Watchful Satan Wants to Devour You!

From the jw.org publications