Proof The Bible Is True

In this story from September 1989, popular actress Marla Gibbs shares how she came to understand that when it comes to faith, the first step can be the toughest—and the most rewarding.

 

In recent years I have had two very good roles on television: Florence, the wisecracking maid on the series The Jeffersons, and Mary, the mother who holds things together on 227. But 17 years ago, in 1972 when I was just getting started in theater work, I thought I’d never make it as an actress. For that matter, I couldn’t even hold my life together or afford a home of my own.

 

Back then I had about as much self-confidence as a chicken in a fox’s den. I was recovering from surgery and had been off work for six months from my lob as a United Airlines reservations agent. I’d had some bit parts in local theater groups, but those came and went, not leading to anything bigger.

 

Worse, as a single mother with three youngsters, I had no place to live. My children were staying with their father while I recuperated in an aunt’s apartment. Lying in bed, staring hopelessly at the wall, I didn’t know what to do or where to turn.

 

Then one Sunday morning I idly flipped on the television set, and there were actor Robert Young and his wife talking about their faith.

 

Read More: Guideposts Classics: Marla Gibbs on Stepping Out in Faith – Guideposts