Renew your Strength

I've had a book on my desk for some time now, waiting for its chance to make an appearance here. This is a book that has my name in it, in the Acknowledgments! It was written by one of my Invisible Sisters, Shirley Corder (her website). A South African friend who I've never met face-to-face, but who knows more about me than many of my friends.

Strength Renewed was born out of her experience with breast cancer and desire to help others out there going through the cancer journey. It is a collection of 90 mediations that shepherd the reader through the journey, from the shock of first diagnosis through to the end of treatment.

It isn't a book about her, though she tells many short stories of her journey. It isn't a how-to book either. The book isn't a theological one, nor is it a book about healing. It relentlessly points the reader to the God who helped her through the journey. It is a practical book, it is a book that will help you walk through the fire.

Shirley was the leader of the writing critique group that took me in several years ago. I've critiqued many of her stories, some are even in this book. I enjoy her style, she writes with fresh honesty about what she's experienced, not stopping to hide her faults.

I have never had cancer, but I know that if that ever happens, I want this book by my side. If someone I know well is diagnosed, I'll be buying this book for them and their loved ones.

Oh, and by the way, this isn't just a book for the one with cancer, it will be invaluable for the spouse, children, parents or other close loved ones.

Tomorrow and Tuesday I'm posting an interview I did with Shirley (via email). I hope you'll come and find out more about this book and its author.