Ms. Denise Payne

Ms. Denise Payne is the  Lead for YDH's Recovery Ministry/Programs Advocacy Project.

Following is the featured Destiny Spotlight interview provided in our February 2021 newsletter.

Ms. Denise Payne is a Tenant Service Coordinator at Merakey and was recently employed as a Telephone Operator at St. Christopher’s Hospital. Denise was honest and hopeful when she described her destiny journey as something that is meant to be; her predetermined destined fate.

I know my destiny is to help others. I have always been a person who felt compelled to support people as they participate in their own success, whatever success may look like for them. Working in the Human Services field gives me so much joy and a feeling of fulfillment, and purpose. I really enjoy what I do!

Most people would be surprised to know that in my journey between the ages of 33 until 42, I became trapped in the disease of addiction. Growing up I was a member of the Philadelphia All-City band and orchestra, and I played with Pieces of a Dream when they were known as A Touch of Class, and I also played with the Stenton Diner Jazz Band. I was later awarded a full scholarship as a woodwind major at Grambling State University, playing in the orchestra and marching band. I now hold a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in Social Work. I had lost my way, but with God’s mercy and grace, the desire for using substances was eventually removed and I was able to find my way back.

Since my recovery, I’ve been able to regain family relationships, earn two college degrees and become a productive member of society. I still face life challenges. During my early recovery, I lost my only sibling to breast cancer. Then two years later I lost my father to colon rectal cancer, but through all of this I was able to maintain my recovery. I believe there is nothing I can’t overcome. Those obstacles seemed to make me stronger because God is my source of strength.

There are many who I see as trailblazers into helping others. In the beginning my mentors were my program’s psychiatrist and my counselor. They were employees of my family and children recovery program. These two individuals, a man, and a woman, helped me address and overcome my issues that were not allowing me to grow personally. I understood how I was my number one problem. People pleasing was one of my downfalls! My counselor began by showing me my potential and worth. She showed me I was a good person and had so much to give to myself and to others. They both taught me how to love myself. How to “allow help to help me.” I no longer live my life to please people. If it doesn’t make me happy, I do not do it! They were my encouragement. As I progressed there were so many others who poured themselves into me unselfishly. After my emotional and mental fog lifted, I was able to see life through a much clearer lens, giving me the ability to appreciate the footprints laid by the females in my family.”

Outside of work, I receive joy through my family and friends. As a child, I enjoyed being with family. My fondest memories were growing up with parents and grandparents, and weekly visits with aunts, uncles, and cousins. There were so many of us that we were each other’s friends. Today, added to this joy are my children, and grand-children. I like to spend my spare time with my mother, my daughter, and my girlfriends. My circle of friends is very small, but they too add to my joy of game nights and doing girly things like going to the spa, getting manicures and pedicures, and shopping. I also enjoy cooking and baking. Prior to Covid-19’s quarantine, I also enjoyed traveling on day and weekend trips. Any time spent with them is always a joyous occasion.

I encourage anyone who has lost their way or anyone who has felt down or discouraged, finding your way back is possible. Don’t be discouraged! Believe that you are worthy and stay focused on what you would like your life to look like. Ask God for help. He will put positive people in your path. While I find all of God’s creations beautiful, the world needs more love and sensitivity for our fellow man. My best traits are loyalty and compassion. Wemust become more compassionate and sensitive to the struggles that many of us are facing, and be willing to support each other when needed.