One Dark Night

In the city of Chicago; In an inner-city community; My recall reaches back more than 50 years. My best memory says that a 19-year-old college student, very bold and willing to engage, was Unafraid to be silenced by dark and demonic encounters. I share this, not as one who succeeded or became an expert in anything, much less in matters of demonic activity. I speak of it as a puzzle piece that helps me to know from whence I came and to where I have come. I share that which might give insight and awareness to others. In a converted mansion that had become a rehab center to reach drug addicts, alcoholics, and gang members, I joined others in hand and heart, the more matured and seasoned ones. It was there that I learned firsthand the reality of demons and darkness. I personally experienced something new and different. Going in, I felt equipped and had no fear, but before leaving the room, I had both fear and questions. The leader had assured us that there was the presence of at least one demon that had to be cast out. Both the man and the demon were speechless, but the reality of both their presences spoke volumes which rang loud and fearfully throughout my being. There was indeed adequate lighting in the room, but darkness filled the fibers of my being. They looked straight into my eyes, and I looked away. My participation thereafter all but ceased. I do not recall that the demon left the man, but they did not remain in our program of rehabilitation. And I was a changed young man. 092822PS