Rush of Heaven Is A Source Of Comfort & Hope

                   Rush of Heaven has special meaning to me.  This true account of Ema McKinley (the author) who endures a horrendous accident at her workplace which subsequently leaves her in chronic daily pain from reflex sympathetic dystrophy (rsd) is near twin to my recent experiences.  I literally could not put this book down.  By sharing her ups and downs with the reader, she also offers hope and comfort.  Her strong faith in God is to be admired as is her great love for him which never waivers even during her most uncomfortable moments.  Twenty years after the accident, her faith is rewarded and she is healed by Jesus.  For the naysayers (those who don't believe in miracles) she provides proof through her updated doctors reports.  This is an outstanding read which will enhance each readers faith.  I was given the opportunity to read and review for the BookLook community.

Making a Difference for Eternity (A Miracle for Jen by Linda Barrick)

Though just fifteen, Jennifer Barrick had a deep yearning to commit her life to Christ and have it '"Make a Difference for Eternity"'. Her heartfelt thoughts were keep secret in her journal prior to the night that would shaken any strong believer's faith. On the way home from singing in the church choir, her entire family was hit head on by a drunk driver traveling at 80 miles per hour. Jennifer received the brunt of the injuries and was not expected to live through the night. Her sweet, devoted parents were also hurt and in chronic pain (unable to care for her as they desired). As word got out of this horrific accident, the congregation of their Church as well as friends and family did the only thing that they were able to do...and that was to pray. Jennifer having undergone multiple skull fractures and clinging to life slides into a five week coma. Her loving parents go through a roller coaster of emotions while they look to God for the strength and hope to continue going each day. This true account of the Barrick's misfortune will remind us that there is a reason behind everything and even when it is difficult to believe, we must fully submit and rely on the Lord. It is so easy to serve God when times are good and our lives are protected from the problems in this world but only the true believers will survive the trials that we sometimes face in this life. Jennifer's story will move you to tears and also encourage you in ways you have never imagined. I was given the honor to read her book in advance for the Tyndale blog club and I was blown away by the childlike faith and enduring love that Jennifer has for her Savior. The greatest miracle to me is her lack of bitterness over the accident, instead she is full of compassion and concern for others. This beautiful young woman lives a dedicated life with the type of conviction we can all learn from. Each member of her close knit family is transformed because of the accident and God's work is performed in each one with such perfection that makes you stand in awe of their extraordinary faith. Andy Barrick sums the experience up to '"Making Jesus Famous"' which sent me off looking for another box of tissues and her brave mom, Linda Barrick's, quest in finding a cure to make her normal again only to realize that God's ways are always the best. This book is highly recommended for anyone looking for Hope or who has any doubt of God's grace and Love!

What You Don't Know But Should Know About Me

My readers, in order to understand why it might be a few days in between updates to my blog, it is imperative I tell you a little more about me. In 2005 I was diagnosed with Tarlov Cyst Disease (a debilitating and painful condition which in time erodes the spinal cord and causes damage to one's organs); thus more days than not, I am in much pain. However, for many reasons I chose not to elaborate on my condition until today. For one, it took me a few years to even admit to myself that I had this disease and once I had, I did not want sympathy but now for the sake of supporting other sufferer's I am ready to speak about this condition. I have been fortunate because I was raised in a strong Christian Faith and through prayer and the support of the members of my Church and family I have been able to adjust to this situation. The Love is plenty as well as the support. It is so important that whatever disability, that the family encourages their loved one and helps them to move into their new "life". Only those with similar illnesses truly understand that we can make no promises nor is our life consistant. Unfortunately in 2005, I was forced into retirement with the recommendation of five neurologists. A better part of my day I have to rest or wage a possibility of a "flare up" (a flu like condition which exacerbates this affliction) which can last up to a few weeks. Being the creative individual that I have always been, it is frustrating for me. I dream of what I want to do but am unable to keep up or participate because of the tarlov cysts. So I beg with the reader, please be patient if I am unavailable or am not updating on a daily basis. My thoughts for this blog are more than you can see or know...in time, it will come together. Close friends and relatives have come to learn that I am not always available and many times I am much of a recluse. The time I do spend on line and with my members is a genuine blessing~ a time to shine even for a short while and I am grateful for each and everyone of you. When I am able I hope to update on the powerful resources there are out there for those with any physical handicap and the ways I have learned to positively deal with the chronic pain. God is always so Good and yes, he gives us the strength to cope and enjoy each day no matter what we may have to endure. Everyone, including those who do not have an illness, should focus daily on their Blessings because it is impossible to be depressed when you look at the wonderful things in your life. In my life, the Good far outweighs the bad, I have no reason to complain. For more information and online support about Tarlov Cyst Disease, these links are available
http://www.tarlovcyst.net