As many of you already know, this past week was a whirlwind of unexpected, frightening news for me and my family. A routine doctor’s visit turned my life upside down, and it left me sort of reeling. (You can read the details in this blog post, if you’d like more of the backstory.)
Through this experience over the past week, I have a newfound appreciation and empathy for those of you who are enduring major life struggles each and every day. I know that what I went through last week pales in comparison to some of the situations you find yourselves in, but in these moments I felt emotions I have never felt before.
I did not have the emotional or physical strength to do much of anything. I had no appetite. I couldn’t bring myself to really blog and had no desire to get online and tackle tasks I needed to — which is very out of character for me because I love this community here!
As I reflected on all of this, I thought about lessons I’m learning in the middle of this and I wanted to share them in hopes that they might encourage someone else who is going through a rough season. Maybe you have a difficult child, financial struggles, a broken relationship, medical issues, marriage problems, or you just feel plain stuck in life right now.
If you’re struggling today, here are 3 things that helped me last week:
1. Choose Joy.
Focus on your problems and you’ll feel discouraged. Focus on your blessings and you’ll feel encouraged. We can’t always choose our circumstances, but we can always choose our response to those circumstances.
We don’t know what tomorrow will bring, or if the news we receive will change the course of our lives. We do know that we have today to embrace life and live as vibrantly and fully as we possibly can.
Choose to live fully today. Because today is all you’re guaranteed. Dwell in the present, and embrace the beauty surrounding you.
When I experienced my surprise medical issues, I had four blogging friends staying with me. I felt, at first, like it was the worst timing possible. I realized very quickly, though, that God had brought them to me at the perfect moment. Having them surround me with love, prayers, support, and encouragement was exactly what I needed and exactly when I needed it.
And I realized how much I had to be thankful for: not only my friends surrounding me, but also for my husband, my children, having 33 years of life — and a very healthy life, at that!
There is always, always something to be grateful for. Sometimes we have to really look for it, but when we do, we’ll find it — and probably a lot more than just one thing!
2. Reach Out for Help.
I’m a very driven, Type-A, do it all by myself kind of person. Allowing people to help me can be very difficult sometimes, but I’m beginning to really learn the beauty in reaching out and letting people pour into you and help you through times when you’re struggling.
We were made for community. Sometimes it feels easier to keep our feelings and hurts and struggles locked away inside, but sharing vulnerably with others gives us an opportunity to open up and have authentic relationships.
If you don’t feel like you have someone to reach out to, think about the people around you who seem like they are caring people, even if you don’t know them extremely well. I encourage you to reach out — today.
If you cannot think of anyone to reach out to, I’d love for you to reach out to me. You can e-mail me, tweet me, or leave a comment on this post. I do not want you to feel alone, and I would love to pray for you and give you a virtual hug.
I’m sure others here at the MoneySavingMom.com community would love to do the same for you. I want this to be a community where we are here to help, inspire, bless, and encourage one another.
3. Do the Next Small Thing.
I will never forget hearing Elisabeth Elliot’s story after her husband, Jim Elliot, was brutally murdered by the people group they were trying to serve and love. After an elaborate plan to minister to this people group ended in radio silence, Elisabeth Elliot said she had a choice in that heartbreaking moment — a choice to keep moving. She chose to do the next small thing, which was changing her daughter’s diaper.
For me this past week, when I wanted to feel overwhelmed with emotions, I challenged myself to just get up and do the next thing — loving on my family and being a host to my friends.
When you do the next thing, even if it seems so small, it will give you courage to keep taking the next small step. It usually feels so much easier to sit, wallow, and be discouraged. But if we just get up and do the next thing — whatever that might be — we will be able to start moving forward and not feel so stuck.
For those of you going through a seemingly hopeless time, I wanted to recommend two books to encourage you. Being the minimalist that I am, you know that I do not own many books. If a book stays on my shelf, it has deeply impacted me. Both of these books have been on my shelf for a long time, so you know that I really love them. 🙂
- Evidence Not Seen by Darlene Deibler Rose. This book shares the story of a woman’s miraculous faith in the jungles of WWII. I read it for the first time when I was about 13 years old and have since read it multiple times because it had such a profound effect on me. To read of this woman’s faith in the middle of confinement and horrendous situations as a prisoner of war was incredible. She chose joy over and over again and reminded herself of the truth instead of giving to seemingly hopeless situations. Even in some of the lowest points in my life, I always told myself that if Darlene could find joy and hope, so could I.
- Calm My Anxious Heart by Linda Dillow. This is one of the absolute best books I’ve read about having a calm, restful, and trusting spirit during the trials of life. I highly recommend it.
What helps you when you are struggling or feel discouraged? Leave a comment and let us know!
Marti Leaman says
choose PRAISE —- In any and every form you can find…seek it out
Jennifer says
I love both of the books you recommended; they have been a tremendous encouragement to me, too! Thank you for this blog. I look forward to reading it every day. 🙂
Lisa says
Calm My Anxious Heart helped me so much. I found it on my shelf in the middle of the night when I was awake because of anxiety. I had picked it up used, and since it already had a few marks and highlights from the previous owner, I wasn’t afraid to go ahead and mark up all the good spots myself. It has many highlights, underlines, and post-it notes now.
Kariane says
I find taking time to acknowledge my sorrow and truly feel whatever I’m experiencing at the moment, even for a short time, allows me to let it go.
Three years ago my best friend died unexpectedly. When I would feel the grief start to well up within me, instead of trying to tamp it down, I would take a couple of minutes to breathe into it and fully experience it. After doing that, I found that I could get up, take a deep breath, and do that next small thing, and that my heart felt taken care of.
I think it’s important to acknowledge and care for ourselves when we’re in the midst of those big emotions, otherwise they may come back to haunt us in other ways.
Rachel says
I love this on line community. When I was walking through something I posted and got so much love in return! I’m greatful for the strength we can give each other, because at some point each of us will need it!!
Also as a side note I’d really like to see a list of the books you do keep Crystal!!
Temple says
I wanted to thank you for your post. Even though I am not facing the same health issues, I have health issues that carry a stigma. I often feel discouraged and lately I have had a hard time blogging due to how I feel. Thank you for sharing your story and helping me .
Leah @ The Frugal South says
Gratitude always helps, hands down. Even when everything seems dark, there is always something to be thankful for, even if it is just the next breath and the gift of being alive. After my dear friend Dan was diagnosed with brain cancer and was recovering from surgery, he finally felt well enough to go outside and mow his lawn. He said it was the most glorious experience he had ever had, only because he saw it through thankful eyes. I try to be grateful like him – for the ability to go outside, move around, work at something, and for the opportunity to live another day.
Christy C. says
I’ve heard you say comparison is the thief of joy before. So true. I’m so glad you shared your experience. Whether someone is going through a tough time that is quickly resolved or an ongoing tough time, I believe that your words of encouragement are so helpful. We can’t compare our situations to someone else’s and say, “Oh I haven’t gone through a tough enough time. I can’t share this.” I absolutely agree with your husband’s thoughts on this when it comes to sharing. Everyone goes through their own tough times and it may not seem as tough to someone else, but when you are walking through it, it’s tough. And you’re right. None of us know what tomorrow holds. At times, we don’t feel like we can choose joy, but that is absolutely the best thing we can do. I am in the middle of reading “Fight Back With Joy” by Margaret Feinberg and I recommend this book too. She fought some really tough things in her battle with cancer, but she determined to fight back with joy. It’s been an inspiration to me thus far.
Still loving your scopes on Periscope! Highlight of my day!
Crystal Paine says
Aw, thank you so, so much for your sweet words and kind encouragement! I’m so grateful that you’re loving the scopes! I’m loving doing them!
Kathy says
This is really a personal comment…there is a new doctor in Williamson County who might be able to help you with the underlying issues in your health, Dr. Potter, http://www.sanctuarymedicalcare.com. I don’t have any relationship with him except that my husband will see him next week. Wishing you and your family the best!
Crystal Paine says
Thanks SO much for sharing! I really appreciate it!
Mariah says
When I heard Crystal speak on this on Periscope, I thought she would say, “Choose Courage”, not joy. To me, courage can be tough and calloused somewhat. Joy is so vulnerable and the right thing to do, but so hard to do. My husband is the perfect example of joy in hard circumstances. I’m not sure how he does it. I can love, have gratitude, and be courageous…but joy is very difficult for me. You would think they all go hand in hand, but in my life joy is lacking. I mean, it’s deep down inside me, but on the surface, I’m operating at a level on constant frustration. Anybody else?
tonya says
I think it’s worth saying that when you are feeling this way for a long time, medication and therapy are helpful as well.
Crystal Paine says
Yes, good words here! Thanks so much for mentioning that!
Jennifer says
I tend to clean when I’m in a bad place. Putting things in order helps calm my head when it’s really going in a million miles.
Crystal, please keep us posted on how you’re doing.
Lauren says
I often live by “do the next small thing” because often it is the only way to get moving when you really don’t want to. looking on the bright side of things helps but sometimes there is so much hurt that you can barely see or feel the good.
Still praying for ya Crystal, hope this week proves to be much better for ya.
Pink says
Yes, I do often feel hopeless and discouraged. It’s not a serious illness or diagnoses etc. It’s just the daily grind of trying to make the best with what little we have being a low income family when nothing seems to change no matter how much we try. It makes frugality feel pointless because it’s not a means to meet goals. We never meet goals, we just eat and pay rent… I know those things are a blessing. It just feels hard to enjoy when things never change. The huge debt sits there untouched and we live in a neighborhood to dirty and dangerous to go on walks.
Wendy@Your Dream Realized says
God is amazing and I’m amazed at how he uses you to help me. I was feeling very overwhelmed tonight about family issues and my business. I couldn’t sleep and thought I’d go on your blog.
One of my worries was how to monetize my blog and you’re promoting a course that focuses on this! I was feeling overwhelmed and discouraged, but reading this post helped me to remember how good I have it. I can’t wait to read Calm My Anxious Heart. Thanks!
Katie Hall says
I agree with the do the next simple thing & feel joy . Lately I’ve been so stressed . It’s one major crisis after another . Trying to get ahead & not working because of other dilemmas . I took myself out a few times on “self dates” . Went on a road trip to a new place . Took a few nights off from work to do things I enjoy . Found new interesting places to go to without spending a ton of money . And took my mind from stress zone to a fun day or night out . Made myself happy . I could focus on other things I wanted to accomplish even though my life isn’t great right now .
Anne Onymous says
Dear Crystal,
In the past, I have been incredulous when you have spoken about the nasty, negative responses you sometimes get. Today, I am writing one (kind of.)
Thank you for the book suggestions. I hoard good books but don’t have either of these. Yet. : )
Since I am in my mid fifties, I am older than you are. Twice I have been in similar situations and it is indeed very scary. Is this weird hearing loss because of a brain tumor? That huge thing in my bone, causing so much pain. Is it cancer? Both times, I was a stay at home mom, homeschooling my children. Like you, my friend, I had good news both times. No cancer.
I write those things so you can know that I understand where you are coming from. You have good advice for this.
What you may not understand is how much more hopeless and discouraged ( than you) people can be. I for one appreciate Glennda’s very honest remarks above. For how long did you, Crystal, go through this dark time? About a week? It is much harder when the pain goes on. And on. And on.
Your advice is still good. It is accurate. But it is also a bit insensitive. You were afraid there MIGHT be a big problem. You very quickly learned there was not. And I am very glad about that! And rejoice with you. I check your website everyday ! -and I really enjoy it and appreciate it and I thank you for doing it!
But, sometimes, to look someone in the eye ( ok, so maybe not literally) and tell them to choose joy can be insensitive and almost cruel. I have had times I could barely bring myself to get out of bed. No energy to do the next thing.
You see, when your child commits suicide, you don’t get better news in a few days. In fact, better news never, ever arrives. It may be months, but it will most likely be YEARS before you can “choose joy.”
(As a Bible believer, there has been another incredible heartbreak I have had to face. If I could write to you privately, I would go into detail, but it is a touchy topic and not everyone would understand why this is so awful.)
I hope I have not offended you. But I hoped to point out that this could be offensive to others. Reading the title “Three Things to do When You Feel Hopeless and Discouraged” might cause a spark of hope in someone who is despairing. When the first thing is “choose joy”, it might seem like a slap in the face. (Joy!? I wouldn’t choose to breathe right now. Why does my heart keep breathing?)
When someone is ready, then your advice is spot on. But, trust me, there are times you cannot choose joy.
I certainly understand if you don’t want to publish this comment. You reach many, many people, and I would be surprised if there is no-one who is overcome with grief right now.
Anne Onymous says
*Why does my heart keep beating?
Crystal Paine says
This was not a nasty comment… not by a long stretch! 🙂 Thank you for taking the time to share. And honestly, I hesitated writing this or writing about last week because I know it pales in comparison to some of the horrifically heavy things other readers are going through. However, my husband encouraged me to share because it’s what I’m learning and going through right now.
This post actually came from a heartfelt live video I did on Periscope. Because so many people were deeply touched by that video, I wanted to recap it in a post. I’m so sorry that it came through as insensitive and unloving. Please know that that was not my intent. This is why sometimes written word on a screen is just not the best method of communication. 🙁
I’m so sorry you’ve been through so many hard, hard, things. My heart hurts deeply for you.
Dana says
I lost my 11 year old daughter very suddenly. It is a totally different situation to just choose joy when you are grieving. I find it impossible most days. And maybe I am crazy but most days it is also hard for me to breathe. It’s been almost 3 years since she has been gone.
Amber says
Anne, I think you wrote out your concerns very well, and I am so sorry for your difficult heartbreaks.
I really appreciate so much that Crystal not only did publish your post, but her comment was so sweet and humble.
I just want to say that I think her advice of “Choosing Joy” was still very appropriate. In fact, she wrote about two women, Elisabeth Elliot and Darlene Rose who could attest to that truth of living in the midst of heartbreak, yet choosing joy, or doing the next small thing. These women’s stories were real, and difficult and heartbreaking. Yet they chose an uncommon attitude….yes, one that most of us have trouble following.
(I speak for myself certainly). When I read Crystal’s post, I was immediately encouraged, because if these women can go through things like that, then there is hope for me too….in Christ we have that hope.
And some of the other comments gave me that encouragement too….and Glennda was just being real and honest stating that she wasn’t there, but wanting prayer to get to that place, I’m sure.
But then I came to your post, Anne, and it left me feeling discouraged….I just want to be honest. I see through your heartfelt post and realize that you too were just being honest and real, and have suffered so much. But it was like the post was saying that no, there are some things so terrible, that it is impossible to choose joy. ever. And suddenly, Christ didn’t seem enough anymore, if terrible things happen, I will have only despair and heartbreak and nothing will help me. That His encouragement to “In everything give thanks, because this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus” would not hold true. The wind went out of my sails, and where I was just feeling encouraged a few moments ago for my circumstances, I suddenly felt like, no, there are times when you are utterly unable to do what God asks.
Thankfully, after a few moments, I again remembered…..Elisabeth Elliot and Darlene were REAL people. I remembered Corrie Ten Boom and her sister, Betsy, who have always been my role models and who I fall back on to remember their way of life. And I KNOW and have HOPE that there has to be a way to choose joy and thanksgiving when I am in even worse circumstances. Those women showed me that it IS possible. With God ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE.
And Crystal was simply telling us that these are the things she learned last week in the midst of those circumstances, not afterwards when she found out everything was ok. But in the MIDST, when she did NOT know how anything would turn out.
We need that hope. Please don’t take it away from us.
Anne says
I love the Money Saving Mom
community and I am happy to pray for anyone who is struggling and offer encouragement.
Crystal, I hope you are able to give yourself a lot of grace in the coming weeks and months to not go full speed and allow yourself time to talk, pray and/or write through your feelings.
Emma says
Thank you for this. I’ve had a terrible, horrible no-good day and needed some encouragement.
My Bright Blue House
Shannon says
Thank you for your post. I am 36 and unable to bear children. I am scheduled to have a complete hysterectomy at the end of September. I have not been too emotional over it but I know it’s coming because I am a very emotional person. I have been more fearful than anything. Fearful of something going wrong during or after the surgery, fearful of the pain, fear of the long healing process. So many fears! In those fears though I have felt peace knowing that God is in control. He brings joy in the midst of sorrow! Praying for your continued peace and well wishes. Thank you again for sharing!
Chrissie says
When my seven year old was diagnosed with leukemia last year it felt like nothing would ever be good or happy or peaceful again. 10 months into his battle I can agree that every. Single. Day. We CHOOSE joy. It’s not easy and t doesn’t just happen it is a choice. I wish I knew this before. It truly is just spilt milk. The little worries…will fade because guess what the HUGE worries, though never fade, are manageable. But it’s a choice. And fighting for joy needs to be done every second. Every day. I’ve never cried so much, been so scared and angry as I have been this last year. I couldn’t have ever understood the pain and fear. But through it all we’ve also laughed until we cried happy tears, made more happy memories, and fell more in love with each of our kids and each other. Even the awful things have easing a in their midst
Meg says
Chrissie, I will be praying for your sweet son and for your family. Hugs to you.
Mariah says
Thank you for sharing. It touched my heart. Praying for your son and family.
Crystal Paine says
I love this comment so much. Thank you for sharing!
Megan says
Hi. I’ve come to think that a good percentage of anyone I know or meet is actually going through a life event where they are feeling hopeless or discouraged. If it’s not a medical issue, its a financial one, or family in trouble, or mental issues, or difficulty in transitioning to a new baby, or mental or physical abuse, or substance abuse. I feel like I definitely have my own issues that I must work through without much outside help, but I can still choose joy! And I can focus on the positive aspects of my life. I appreciate your positive attitude! I wish you well in your surgery, and please keep us updated. It is not within my faith to pray for you, but I will send my good thoughts your way. And I think of anyone I encounter as someone I can impact positively through compassion, understanding, and often, very practical help.
Chantell says
I literally just came on to your blog to look for a recommendation for a book about anxiety! I go to your blog about once a week but today was specifically for a book for Christians on anxiety. I am ordering now. God is great! Thank you
Sarah says
I read “calm my anxious heart” and I wouldn’t say it’s really about anxiety. It’s about finding contentment. If you want christian truth on anxiety/worry/fear, check out books by Ed Welch. Helped me a LOT!
Tessa says
“Holding on to Hope,” a Bible study on the book of Job was inspirational to me after I lost a baby at 26 weeks.
Alicia says
Thank you for sharing your heart. It was a blessing to read. I’m praying for you.
Jessica @ The Abundant Wife says
Thank you for the encouragement and for sharing your story!
Three years ago (at 31 years old) I was pregnant with my third child and having my 20 week ultrasound done. We found out we were having a little girl, and the technician discovered a cyst the size of a tennis ball. It was positioned right behind my belly button, and causing an umbilical hernia. After a second ultrasound it was determined that the cyst was not growing, so we put off surgery for 8 months. After my daughter was born, and I had recovered, I began preparing for the surgery. Further testing, removal, and repair showed that the cyst was benign.
It was hard to wait so long not knowing exactly what medical issues I was facing, but it was such a relief when it was all over and I was fully recovered. Today I am 15 weeks pregnant with our 4th child, and again so grateful that I had the best possible outcome. I have known many whose medical issues were not as quickly resolved as mine, so I am thankful for each day I get to spend with my family and in good health.
Dawn P Camp says
Crystal, thank you for sharing! I have followed your blogs off and on since 2008. I was able to hear you speak at Branches Church in Acworth, Ga. You have taught me many things and I am grateful. I will be praying for you and your family. I understand some of what you are going through. I LOVE Elisabeth Elliott and have leaned on the “do the next thing” before. Thanks for reminding me. HUGS from us.
Glennda says
It’s interesting that this is the post in my inbox on the day I’m feeling as hopeless as ever. 3 1/2 years ago, my husband fell into a 14ft hole while on the job. Thankfully he only broke his foot, however the road to recovery has been long and hard. After a year and a half, workers comp decided he could not go back to construction and he needed retraining. We both felt like the Holly spirit was leading him to ministry and he enrolled in the local Bible college. It only took him 2 years to complete his BS degree (he had credits from earlier in life, but I’m trying to keep this short!) and he graduated with highest honors in May of this year. Unfortunately, we both believed it would be easy for him to get a job after graduation, but that has not been the case. The pile of “no’s” is higher that I care to admit. And with each one, I feel like another hole gets blasted in my faith.
On top of all this, financially things have been very difficult. Our savings is gone, we are loosing our house and my husband takes handfuls of painkillers everyday in order to do odd jobs here and there to pay the rest of the bills. To say I’m tired and worn out is an understatement. I’m terrified that we (there are 7 of us!) will end up living in my inlaws garage.
I feel like God told us to take this path and the abandoned us. I’m struggling greatly to see any joy in life at the moment. I guess I could really use some prayer as I can’t even bring myself to do that.
Anne says
I prayed for you Glennda.
Jennifer says
Praying for you Glennda and sending virtual hugs.
Crystal Paine says
I am so, so sorry that you’re going through this! My heart hurts for you. I just prayed for you. For hope, for provision, for comfort, for strength.
Also, I think this post might encourage you: https://moneysavingmom.com/2014/05/keep-hope-alive-everything-goes-wrong.html
Shannon says
I had a complete hysterectomy on Tuesday. With the exception on my husband and a few friends and family members, I have been very hurt and disappointed in the lack of caring that I have received from the very people that I show great care for. So with my emotions in overdrive I have felt very discouraged this week. But I keep saying to myself ” choose gratitute “. Thank you for this reminder to always look for the good in my life. I’m so glad you ended up with good news about your health.
Anne says
Shannon, I will pray for your recovery.
Shannon says
Thank you
Wendy@Your Dream Realized says
Shannon, I’m sorry to hear that :(. I will pray for your to feel encouraged and supported during this time.
Shannon says
Thank you for your prayers.
Crystal Paine says
I am so, so sorry! {Hugs!} I just prayed for you this morning.
Shannon says
Thank you?
[email protected] says
When things go south, I go to my family and friends who have had it way harder than me………..they tend to bring me back up. I think of how God has pulled them through tougher times than I have ever had to go through and I ask them to share their story with me again. It’s always uplifting. That is one way I deal with despair.
Christina Z says
I loved Calm My Anxious Heart. And also, One Thousand Gifts. Having a thankful spirit seemed to help me through my mom’s death and my premature baby.
Crystal Paine says
One Thousand Gifts is SUCH a great book recommendation! I should have totally thought to recommend that one, too! Thank you for mentioning it!
Swapna says
“Choosing Joy” is such an important idea. At one point a few years ago, I used to wallow in sadness and feeling stuck. Then after some time, I decided to choose to be happy. I started looking at how much better my life was compared to so many others & how many blessings I had in my life. And now, I strive to always keep that in mind whenever I feel myself wallowing and try to get out of it.
Crystal Paine says
Yes! I love this comment!
Jen says
Here are some things that help me:
1. Exercise (releases endorphins)
2. Meditate
3. Eat a healthy diet (you really are what you eat, and your food affects your mood more than you might realize)
4. Decide what I’m unhappy with in my life. Figure out what is in my control, and take action to change it. If it’s in my control but the timing isn’t right to change it, try to focus on the positive and release as much negativity as possible. If it’s not in my control, tell myself to stop wasting energy thinking about it and re-focus my attention to what is within my control. Ask myself if this is so terrible I’ll be thinking about it on my deathbed (keeps things in perspective).
5. Find something fun or different to do. It’s hard to focus on the bad things when you’re having fun or focusing 100% on something you’ve never done before.
6. Give myself permission to wallow. Tell myself I can lie in bed and cry all I want for a certain amount of time (20 minutes, an hour, a day), but that I will get up and do what needs to be done afterwards. A good old-fashioned pity party can be cleansing (just don’t keep it going!).
7. Take a nap or get a good night’s sleep. Problems always seem easier to tackle when I’m rested. I remember once I was installing a dishwasher and couldn’t figure out how to assemble the kickplate, one of the easiest tasks of the whole job. I was tired and took a nap. When I got up, it was clear as day how to put it on and I did it in minutes.
8. Do something good for others. Sometimes I feel I’m not making a difference in my job (health care), but when I help someone or see them improving, I feel so much better.
Crystal Paine says
Such good ideas here. Thank you so much for taking the time to share!
Sarah@TheOrthodoxMama says
“Do the next small thing.” Wonderful. A few years ago, when pregnant with my first child, I found out that I had a lump in my breast. They did a biopsy on it quickly. I found my mind racing in a million directions–will I have to have surgery, can that happen when I am pregnant, etc. We decided to wait until after I’d had our son. Eventually I had two more biopsies and a lumpectomy, but, Praise God, I am fully recovered today. In the midst of such emotional overload, we can often only focus on the next minute. Doing the next small thing and choosing to pray in this moment is what kept me going. Thanks for sharing.
Crystal Paine says
I’m so grateful you are fully recovered! And thank you for taking time to share!
Kim @ The Coupon High says
Calm my Anxious Heart is a wonderful book.
Kadie says
My library did not have either book. Will start keeping my eye out for them.
Megan says
Kadie- did you inquire at your library if they would be able to borrow either book from another library? The library I work at does a lot of interlubrary loans for older titles the library does not ow, but patrons have requested. We often can borrow the item for free. Might be worth a shot…
Anne says
I was going to suggest the same thing. Check your library’s website for Interlibrary Loan or ask a librarian the next time you’re there. I’m getting Jen Hatmaker’s Interrupted that way.
Tammy says
You are spot on with your 3 tips. I’m coming up on one year since my husband passed away from brain cancer. He was only 51 and we have a 10 and 12 year old. Every single day I talk to them about how we still have so many things to be thankful for even though their daddy is no longer with us. We focus on the positive as much as possible and just keep moving forward even if some days we don’t feel like it. I’m so glad your story has a happy ending. You are amazing for thinking about the struggles of others during your own difficult time. Blessings to you.
Brooke says
This is an amazing book that you should check out:
http://www.amazon.com/Never-Alone-Terry-Schwartz/dp/0816341141
Jessica says
Sending positive thoughts your way, and to all others who are facing challenging moments in their life. Do not let your fear overshadow your joy!
*hugs*