Loved this! And the ending. As I work on a draft of a book, I keep having a hard time thinking about the ending--love how you named it and broke the fourth wall in that spot. I hate the bow, but the framework of completing the stress cycle is helpful. Safety, not finality or a "happy" ending seems much more achievable and honest.
I loved this book and appreciate the way you walk your readers through and toward a place of accepting that faith is about being accompanied through the ups and downs, with God's presence, with traditions, and with the awareness that life moves cyclically. It's encouraging to know we can find comfort when we're hurting. The ending was, in every way, inclusive to anyone currently suffering.
Why am I just now coming across your work?? Gosh… this is so good. The idea of ending by naming life’s ongoing-ness in the form of a benediction is absolutely beautiful.
In a time full of “solutions” and quick fix offers, the invitation to be with life’s ongoing-ness is one that makes me take a deep breath and settle further into my chair. Thank you for this!
I too have found myself in those places where it seems like the worst I could imagine, or something terrible that I've already endured, is happening again. Thanks for acknowledging this reality in your writing. It's an honest comfort.
Loved this! And the ending. As I work on a draft of a book, I keep having a hard time thinking about the ending--love how you named it and broke the fourth wall in that spot. I hate the bow, but the framework of completing the stress cycle is helpful. Safety, not finality or a "happy" ending seems much more achievable and honest.
I recall having tears drip down my cheeks as I closed your book, Stephanie. Your ending was so moving.
I am over here, in good company, choosing my courage- as I pick up the pen or place my hand on the cursor. Thank you 🙏🏼
I loved this book and appreciate the way you walk your readers through and toward a place of accepting that faith is about being accompanied through the ups and downs, with God's presence, with traditions, and with the awareness that life moves cyclically. It's encouraging to know we can find comfort when we're hurting. The ending was, in every way, inclusive to anyone currently suffering.
This post is helpful to me as a writer. I wondered if the benediction-like passage I wrote at the end of my memoir would work. I think it will.
Why am I just now coming across your work?? Gosh… this is so good. The idea of ending by naming life’s ongoing-ness in the form of a benediction is absolutely beautiful.
In a time full of “solutions” and quick fix offers, the invitation to be with life’s ongoing-ness is one that makes me take a deep breath and settle further into my chair. Thank you for this!
Can’t wait to read more of your work.
I too have found myself in those places where it seems like the worst I could imagine, or something terrible that I've already endured, is happening again. Thanks for acknowledging this reality in your writing. It's an honest comfort.
Thank you. I have been enjoying your book. And reading this today help me find the ending for my book.