Occasionally, life takes us on detours. That is where my writing path has currently taken me: from historical fiction to a non-fiction memoir.
Since I am trusting the Lord with each step on this very important side road, I am relying heavily on His strength to carry the burden. So far, His yoke has been easy, albeit, covered with tears.
My book writing began seven years ago when I began researching for my first historical fiction (“The Road to Deer Run”). Since then, I’ve published three more in the same genre, each set in the era of the American Revolution.
But nearly three years ago, I was at a Christian Writers Conference, worshipping God during the praise time, when a very real impression of God’s direction in my life took root in my heart and mind: the Lord was telling me to write a memoir of my daughter Bethany’s battle with a brain tumor. She passed away ten years ago.
Prior to this moment, I had determined in my steel heart that I would NEVER write about that painful journey. But there I was, with tears rolling down my cheeks, the Lord reassuring me in my spirit that He would give me the strength. And He has.
So now I labor to relive that worst trial in my life. And I’m praying that her story will bless others to help them glimpse a speck of light on the darkest of days.
I’m also praying that my book will help other families who are in similar circumstances, empowering them to be their loved one’s advocate. Helping family members and friends to know where they can say “no” and perhaps—even when they are unsure of their steps—to know they can say “yes” as the Lord guides them on unfamiliar terrain.
So on this temporary detour—perhaps the most important in my calling as a writer—I pray that my daughter’s memory will be honored and that her story will touch many for His glory.
I covet your prayers as I work on “Bethany’s Calendar.” And I thank you.
(Photo of sun peeking through the clouds courtesy of Thomas Deitner)