In 1953, a young couple in Memphis named their newborn son after the man who built Jerusalem’s first temple: Solomon, the wisest King of Israel.

Like his name sake, Solomon values wisdom. He remains teachable, even at age 72.

Solomon spent his career driving trucks across the U.S. — and you can still see pride in his eyes as he recounts those years working for one of America’s largest distribution companies. He finished strong and later retired, bought a new truck, and prepared to settle in. But old demons were waiting.

“When I retired in2013, I had retirement all wrong,” he said. “You got to put money back for retirement. That was a major mistake. I had a little money when I retired, was out for two months, and then I just went hog wild. I went back to drugging. … just like that — I went down.”

When Solomon first arrived at Springs Rescue Mission, he was in a state of turmoil. But he had the one thing that matters most — hope.

“I was thinking about getting an apartment, but I came here and found a better situation,” he said. “Because I was blessed with a chance to rebuild my life and get the structure I needed.”

What stands out most in Solomon’s story is the faith-based nature of the program at Springs Rescue Mission. Unlike other programs he had tried, this one provided him with something deeper — a sense of community, structure, and a spiritual foundation.

“This program is what I love,” he said. “It’s a faith-based program, and that’s what makes it so special.”

For Solomon, the program wasn’t just about tackling his addiction; it was about healing his soul and becoming closer to a God he’d known since he was just a boy in Memphis — a Father whose love he never doubted, but who nonetheless had felt more distant through his hardships.

“Drugs didn’t destroy me, only by the grace of God,” he said. “That’s fora reason.”

The staff at Springs Rescue Mission were an integral part of his journey. Solomon talks about the difference it made to be invited in and cared for — to really be seen and loved for who he is. Because from Solomon’s experience, it’s an increasingly rare occurrence.

“They’re real nice,” he said. “They spend time with you, and they help you with your problems. … They always make time for you.”

This attention and care created a safe environment where Solomon could feel supported and understood. He quickly understood — and felt deep in his heart — that Springs Rescue Mission was a place where he could begin to heal.

“It’s like a family here,” he said. “I don’t know how else to say it. They’re really trying to help you.”

A major breakthrough for Solomon came on the way to a Bible study one morning. He walked across campus confidently, without stopping to catch his breath. It’s something small — but something he hadn’t felt in years. He could once again breathe easy.

“I was crying on the phone with my sister, and they were praying for me, ”Solomon said. “God had put it on their hearts to pray for me, especially about my breathing.”

For Solomon, this moment marked a shift from his old life to the new one he was building with God's guidance. He felt God begin to heal every part of him — and it filled him with emotion.

"When I go to church and hear the music, I can’t stop crying,” he said. “It’s overwhelming. I feel like I’m really living again.”

As Solomon continues through the program, he remains focused on his future. His ultimate goal is to graduate from Springs Rescue Mission and return to the work he loves — driving trucks. For a man who had faced the depths of addiction, the idea of once again doing what he loves is a symbol of newfound freedom.

"I miss driving trucks, and I have about ten more good years left in me," he said. "God has given me the strength to let go of things that once controlled me. I’m ready for this next chapter."

Solomon’s journey hasn’t just been about overcoming addiction — it’s been about reclaiming his life and his faith. With the support he’s found at Springs Rescue Mission, Solomon is learning to set small goals, each one building on the last. He’s taking one step at a time — walking with God.

“You have to take small goals, just like a domino effect,” he said. “It motivates you to keep going.”

For Solomon, Springs Rescue Mission isn’t just a place to stay; it’s a place where he’s been given the tools to rebuild his life from the ground up. Solomon is learning to lean on God, trusting Him to lead him every step of the way.

"This program is the real deal,” he said. “I got God in front of me, and I’m following Him. I’m learning, and I feel good about it. It’s easier every day.”

His story is a reminder that no matter where you are in life, redemption is always possible. For Solomon, it’s a new beginning — one that’s grounded in faith, hope, and a determination to move forward with God's guidance.

“God’s got this,” Solomon said. “Amen?”

“Amen.”

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