him to take advantage of some of the many area programs available for veterans, one of which is Guitars for Veterans. “We jam on Friday nights and Sunday afternoons,” James says. “It helps me keep my PTSD in check. The program helps you focus on something else.” About a year and a half into his stay at the mission, James turned his casual relationship with God into a much more committed one. “One day I dropped to my knees and fully sur- rendered to God,” he says. “God wants His whole creation to come back to Him because that’s what makes Him happiest.” James’ recommitment to God made a difference. “He really started practicing his faith and going to church after that,” Mike says. “He decided that if he was going to be living, he needed to live differently. He’s one of those guys that you can’t dislike. He has all kinds of character. He’ll come up to guys who were afraid to identify them- selves as vets and help them get into a better life.” James’ heart remains healthy in spite of his lack of oxygen, but now he recognizes he needs spiri- tual heart surgery. He says, “I ask God every day to be my spiritual healer. That’s where I’m fractured. As long as I ask God to heal me spiritually, I can continue to do good works.” Bill Roscoe, president and CEO of Boise Rescue Mission Ministries, is a retired veteran himself, which is one reason the mission takes services to veterans seriously. “James is a remarkable man,” he says. “After finding friendship, assistance, and a renewed relationship with God, he has become an amazing testimony of hope and love. I’ve never known a more gracious man.” Because of James’ lack of oxygen, he has to work hard at everything he does. “I had to learn to maximize my efficiency,” he says. “Without the Veteran Ministry Program, I wouldn’t be here today. That’s why I give back to the ministry.” James serves as a cashier at the mission’s thrift store, helps in the computer lab, drives veterans to doctor’s appointments, and helps veterans get connected with the services they need. He also reaches out to veterans in the community through his membership with the American Legion, and by helping with area fundraising events that bene- fit veterans. In 2015, Boise Rescue Mission named James Veteran of the Year. “I’m thankful the program is there,” he says. “Without coming to the mission, I wouldn’t have been able to figure out how to make good choices. One of the most critical choices I’ve ever made was to go to the VA hospital. I’m thankful I did that because it opened up so many doors. It opened a friendship.” James’ lung capacity has deteriorated over the past few years, and he again needs a lung trans- plant. In January, he found out he’s on the waiting list again. When he receives the transplant, he says, “My life is going to change tremendously.”  WWW.CITYGATENETWORK.ORG MARCH/APRIL 2019 21 “I’m thankful the program is there,” he says. “Without coming to the mission, I wouldn’t have been able to figure out how to make good choices. The most critical choice I’ve ever made was to go to the VA hospital. I’m thankful I did that because it opened up so many doors.” Natalee is a freelance writer and editor and a full­time mother of two. She lives in Colorado Springs. You can reach her at nataleekasza@gmail.com.