Thursday, September 6, 2012

My latest read...

I read Elaine's book today, all of it.

It's been here for a few days, but I waited for a quiet day to myself and this was the day.

The reason I have looked so forward to this book is because I have read Elaine's blogs, many of you have too, writings that have challenged me and struck a chord in my own heart over and over, words that were written before cancer even became a chapter in her life.

I knew this was going to be special. It is...

It won't take you long to recognize yourself on these pages, whether you've ever had cancer or not. I haven't, and by the end of page 2, I already knew there were many lessons here for me.

Elaine writes so beautifully, as most of you already know, her pen is God's gift.

These words are about so much more than cancer, although she shares both her struggles and rough times so honestly, it will be a treasure for cancer patients and their families. This book, with questions at the end of each chapter, and also a facilitator format, is ideal for churches to offer in a group or small group setting.

I'm sincere when I say that Elaine and several others of you blogging sisters are as good as it gets! Move over Beth... :)

The secrets she shares here are for every one of us. They are principles for living, God's way. There isn't anyone who travels this journey of life without 'something', be it cancer, or some other form of suffering. But as Elaine so clearly says, all of our 'somethings' matter to God, are known to Him, and will be transformed in our lives for good, because of His grace.

You will gain so much insight from Elaine's honest and gifted words. I just love this girl!!

I could give you so many quotes, but I really hope you will read this book yourself, so I won't, maybe just one...

"Hard surrenders made in the leanest of all of life's seasons indicate an underlying, undeniable, and underscored personal trust in the work of the cross."

Get the book!



http://www.peaceforthejourney.com/

13 comments:

Kathleen said...

What a powerful endorsement! I just know Elaine is blessed beyond words; as am I.

I haven't yet got my copy, but you can be sure I will.

Maryann said...

Great endorsement, I think i may have to get a copy for myself

Debbie Petras said...

I'm awaiting my copy of Elaine's book. I purchased it over the weekend. So glad to read your thoughts.

Love you,
Debbie

Vee said...

Have not heard of this one and, after the year we had with my mother's final illness, I'm thinking that this might be one for me. That's a wonderful quote.

Farm Girl said...

It sounds wonderful and profound.

elaine @ peace for the journey said...

Dear Sonja:

I've hijacked elaine's laptop to let you know how much I appreciate your words on my wife's behalf. Like so many of Elaine's regular visitors, I know your face and your "handle" in blogland. What a gift you have given us this evening; more than we can quite take in.....

Your candid opinion is more than just a plug for a "good read," it is a powerful validation. More than a validation of Elaine's writing ability, instead your words have validated my wife's long-suffering. And just in case the conversation in chapter 17 seemed familiar to you, Elaine let me know that she has YOU to thank for that exchange. It is one of her favorites in the book.

Like a family heirloom, what you have posted today will be something we will treasure for years to come. You can expect many of the members of our tribe to come and read what you have to say. Would that you lived closer, because there are several hugs that the postman will have a hard time delivering.

Blessings to you and your family,
~ Preacher Billy
PS - A year ago, Elaine shared your father's story with me. I've been inspired by his witness and encouraged to grow in my personal commitment as an intercessor.

Debbie said...

I am soo excited to read about this, and will be ordering my copy soon. Like you I have followed Elaine through all of this, and her witness has been profound. Soo much of what she has written has stayed with me. I am sure she soo appreciated your words here as well. Blessings!

Felisol said...

I've read about this book on several blogs, so no doubt, it must be good.
I so liked your quote," all of our 'somethings' matter to God".
That is something I've been clinging on to most of my youth and adult life.
"Never will I leave nor forsake you."
Even so, on this earthly battle field in cannot be repeated often enough.
In the heat of the day, it needs to be carved in our shields.
We matter, we are never alone or forsaken.

Just Be Real said...

Wonderful and powerful statement Sonja. Blessings.

Janettessage.blogspot.com said...

Thanks for sharing...yes I think we all go through things that could be called cancer, even if not a physical cancer it can be an emotional or heart cancer...a struggle.

I will check this out...thanks for sharing!

Our daughter-in-law was given the okay to start an infertility ministry at her church...she is taking her challenge and ministering to others through her struggle

myletterstoemily said...

i would read anything you endorsed
and have been inspired by elaine's
blog, too!

Nikki (Sarah) said...

this book sounds beautiful...inspirational and something I want to check out. My friend just died from cancer....Maybe this is a book I can get for his wife.

Just a little something from Judy said...

Every writer who sat down to tediously share her heart with the world, would love to have the wonderful endorsement that you just gave to dear Elaine. What a gift you shared with her and with all of us. I was blessed in a huge way with her first book, and now, because of your endorsement, I want to read her heart again. Thank you dear Sonja!