She wrote a letter to the man who murdered her mother—and forgave him.

On this episode of The Cup of Joe Show, Shanna C. shares a story that is both heartbreaking and redemptive. Growing up in a family marked by divorce and instability, she struggled with self-image, loneliness, and what she now calls a deep spiritual malady long before her first drink. Alcohol became her escape, and soon her life revolved around drinking, men, and a desperate search for connection.

Then came the moment that changed everything: on October 13, 1998, Shanna’s mother was murdered by her stepfather, Larry. Haunted by guilt over her final words to her mom, Shanna spiraled deeper into alcoholism—even as she married the love of her life and tried to outrun the pain through moves and distractions.

Her turning point came in the most unexpected way—through a stranger at church who nudged her toward recovery. With the support of AA and Al-Anon, Shanna realized she was an alcoholic, and on October 13, 2008—exactly ten years after her mother’s death—she embraced sobriety.

In a remarkable act of grace, Shanna wrote a letter to Larry in prison, telling him she forgave him. His response showed her that they were both set free.

Her journey is a profound reminder that recovery is about more than just not drinking—it’s about experiencing God’s promises, freedom through forgiveness, and the power of love to heal the deepest wounds.

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The Cup of Joe Show explores the journey of recovery from alcohol and drug addiction—one story, one conversation, and one step at a time. New Episode Every Thursday at Noon.