Finding Beauty in the Brokenness: Books

March 3rd, 2014

 
There have been so many things pushing me through this loss and grief.  First and foremost is my hope in Christ. I honestly cannot imagine walking this road without His hand leading us, comforting us, caring for us, and faithfully providing for our needs. We would simply be left to wander aimlessly.

I’m all the more thankful for the lives we have been entrusted. Henry, Brooks, Clark, and Isaac have been reasons to get out of bed, and great sources of both joy and distraction.

Brad has been fiercely loyal.  We’ve hurt together, differently, but in unison. I know it’s times like these that either break you or make you, and we’re determined to let it grow us, even if it’s painful.

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Additionally, there have been a few other helps along the way that I’d like to share with you.  I know that so many of you have or are facing different hardships and grief, and I hope these can be a source of encouragement to you.  If you are coasting right now, perhaps you can use these resources to be a source of comfort to those hurting in your circles.

I’ll start with books. Words have been a powerful tool in helping me walk through the pain.  I’ve been listening to others who have walked through pain, uncertainty, loss, difficulties, and have come out shining. They’ve found beauty in the broken road – a journey I’m determined to endure.

Here are 3 Books God Has Used to Show Me Beauty in the Brokenness:

1. You’re Going to Be Okay by Holley Gerth

The timing of this book was impeccable. It arrived unexpectedly on my doorstep as an early release the day before my D&C.  You think that was simply accidental? I was a little afraid of working through this book, because I knew it would force me to swallow the hard things, and see God’s goodness through it. And it did.  This book was the warm hug and reassuring pat on the back that I needed in some of my darkest hours. It forced me to see so many truths, and embrace the hope that I can cling to in the joy and in the sorrow.

 
2. Choosing to See by Mary Beth Chapman

I read this book in a little over 24 hour hours in some of those first hard days, because I simply could not stop reading it.  Although the Chapman’s weight of grief in loosing their daughter Maria, must be so much heavier than my own load, I could relate so much to her words, “All stories of hard are different, but pain and suffering are the common ground.” I found so much comfort through her writing and honesty in the struggle of choosing to SEE.

3. I Will Carry You by Angie Smith

I read this book back in 2010, and it greatly changed the way I’ve responded to friends and family’s pain and losses. Brad and I have referenced it frequently over the last few weeks, and know that we both read it for a purpose. It’s a beautiful depiction of the sacred dance of grief and joy.

What books have been a treasure to YOU in finding beauty in the brokenness?

{Original Photo by RonWLS}

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