by Clem Boyd, Communication Content Manager
Mike DiCuirci, Senior Professor Emeritus of Music, had his first drink at age 12, and by high school, alcohol was a regular part of his life. Getting drunk, taking drugs, and what he calls a “riotous and hedonistic life” were the norm through his teen years, his college years at the University of Michigan, and his early career years as a school music teacher.
A pivotal moment came in young adulthood when he demolished his van after knocking back 25 gin and tonics. Amazingly, Mike came away uninjured, but for the first time he was awakened to the fact he might have a drinking problem.
After marrying his sweetheart for a lifetime, Joanne, he met up with an old friend who had conquered his drinking habit. Mike had offered his buddy a cold beer, but the friend responded, “Oh, I don’t drink anymore; I’m an alcoholic.” Mike said aloud, “If you’re an alcoholic, what does that make me?” Mike started attending Alcoholics Anonymous, and 1974 was the last year he had a drink. The Lord was on the move in his heart.
In his search for the truth, Mike read a book about a Christian swing musician named Dave Boyer. And, as it turned out, Boyer was going to perform in concert and speak at an event in Plymouth, Michigan, where Mike and Joanne were living. At that concert, Mike heard about Jesus as the living Savior who could transform his life. Joanne and he began attending a local church, and during a meeting with the pastor, they prayed to receive Christ as Savior and Lord.
“Everyone who trusts in Christ is a walking miracle and has a life message to share,” offers Mike in the minisode podcast. “You can share your life story, and it will have an impact.”
To listen to the Mike DiCuirci minisode, click on the play button below:
Listen to More Cedarville Stories »Located in southwest Ohio, Cedarville University is an accredited, Christ-centered, Baptist institution with an enrollment of 4,550 undergraduate, graduate and online students in more than 150 areas of study. Founded in 1887, Cedarville is recognized nationally for its authentic Christian community, rigorous academic programs, including its Master of Ministry program, strong graduation and retention rates, accredited professional and health science offerings and high student engagement ranking. For more information about the University, visit www.cedarville.edu.