Why would I be a collaborating author on a devotional about grief? Every time I start to talk about this project, I feel a hint of doubt rising up. Why me?
I was having an amazing conversation today with one of my students who happened to be adopted from Russia. We obviously have bonded over adoption and she often, very quietly talks to me about her feelings and attitudes toward being adopted. Today, I told her about this book and immediately she said, "Oh, yes! I can totally see how you and your family have walked through the grieving process."
I think the misconception, and one that is rather unhealthy is the idea that only those who have buried a loved one have walked through grief. Whenever we experience a loss, we need to grieve. We need to labor through denial, anger, bargaining, transition, and acceptance - with ANY loss or challenge in our lives.
My devotionals are not just about adopting George...although several DO deal with that topic. I also wrote about Anna's mourning turning into dancing! And I wrote about my loss of physical activity with my diagnosis of RA. The beauty is that through all these experiences, God has held my hand the entire way...gently leading me to my new normal, which hopefully has seen me changed and refined.
I am so excited about the project and know without a doubt that God is going to use these words to minister to many!!
I was having an amazing conversation today with one of my students who happened to be adopted from Russia. We obviously have bonded over adoption and she often, very quietly talks to me about her feelings and attitudes toward being adopted. Today, I told her about this book and immediately she said, "Oh, yes! I can totally see how you and your family have walked through the grieving process."I think the misconception, and one that is rather unhealthy is the idea that only those who have buried a loved one have walked through grief. Whenever we experience a loss, we need to grieve. We need to labor through denial, anger, bargaining, transition, and acceptance - with ANY loss or challenge in our lives.
My devotionals are not just about adopting George...although several DO deal with that topic. I also wrote about Anna's mourning turning into dancing! And I wrote about my loss of physical activity with my diagnosis of RA. The beauty is that through all these experiences, God has held my hand the entire way...gently leading me to my new normal, which hopefully has seen me changed and refined.
I am so excited about the project and know without a doubt that God is going to use these words to minister to many!!
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