The Barrel of a Gun: How Violence Kept Him from Leaving

By David T. Ulrich

Published in The Moody Standard 76:11. This story is adapted from interviews with a male Moody student. Names are changed to honor confidentiality.

“At about 1 a.m. in the living room, I finally stood up and said, ‘I’m going to break up with Haley tomorrow, and she’s gonna blow my brains out.’ My friends on the other couches chuckled when I said it. It sounded absurd—Haley, do this? But they didn’t know how much I’d been lying.

Letter of Lament

By Danielle Germaine

Dear Friend,

How are you? It’s been a while since we’ve talked. Just one year of college and our lives have torn us apart. I must say, the news I received today was pretty shocking. Things have changed.

I remember this time last year where we were. Small group Bible study, learning about how to live the desire-filled lives God gave us in a way that pleases Him. I remember our days of volleyball games, club meets, and crazy middle school band obsessions. I remember your purity ring that shone as radiant as you. I remember watching you, in awe, as I saw you gleam with each guy you were with. I remember our mission trip to Mexico and getting ready for the sophomore homecoming dance together.