About
The Book: This is an inspiring and compelling story of friendship and
survival. Josie Meyers and her 2 young
children think they are living the American dream until their dream turns to a
nightmare. The little family finds
themselves homeless and Josie is forced to deal with the fallout of her
husband's decisions. Josie spends every
moment worrying about where they will eat, where they will sleep, what if one
of them becomes ill, whom can she trust, how will the children be able to
attend school, will the weather turn cold or rainy or snow. While the scenes
surrounding Josie are dominated by Christmas decorations and carols unfold,
Josie finds herself being forced to lean on the kindness and generosity of
others. What she does not know is that
the influence of one homeless man in particular is about to change the course
of her life and lead her home to the One who waits for her. He becomes her unexpected Christmas hero.
Twitter: @alandkathi
Website:
kathimacias.com
Though I'm a wife,
mother, grandmother, and yes, great grandmother, I also ride on the back of my
hubby's Harley and am known as "Easy Writer." (Update: Hubby sold
Harley and bought a 2005 sunburst orange Corvette, so I'm still "Easy
Writer" but in comfort now!)
My
Thoughts On The Book: I have
to say that I was deeply affected by
Kathi Macias' novel. I’ve never experienced homelessness personally but
have contributed time and gifts to "Bridge Ministry" (homeless people
who live under the interstate are given warm soup, blankets, and coats), I have
served meals at a mission, church, my school.
There is something very rewarding in giving of yourself to someone in
need. I loved the characters of the
book, with Josie being one of my favorites.
She is busy living the good life when out of the blue her world shifts
off its axis. First she loses her mother, then her husband becomes ill and she
loses him as well. The breaking point comes when her home is foreclosed upon.
She and her two young children are forced to learn to navigate the welfare
system in order to survive. With very limited funds there are times when she
and her children are forced to sleep in an alley behind a dry cleaner’s shop. I
had to ask myself as a mother, how would I ever sleep? Having done some work in a homeless shelter I
am not sure it is much better....it is just inside, but desperation leads
people to do many things they would not normally do. It broke my heart as this young mother tried
her best to feed and provide lodging for her little ones. Just when I felt my heart was broken for this
little family, a ray of sunshine peaked through and God began to weave people
into their lives that would change them and ultimately draw them closer to Him.
The most profound pairing was that of Rick and this family. Rick, a homeless Vietnam veteran suffers from Post
Traumatic Stress Disorder. Rick chooses the streets over a veteran’s home where
he would most likely spend his days heavily medicated. Rick embodied the Christ-like character of
laying down his life so that others may obtain life. The story made me view the homeless and their
situation differently. I think everyone should read this story and let it speak
to you. It has a very powerful story to
tell!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free
from Net Galley Publishing. I was not required to write a positive review. All
they asked for was an honest review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR,
Part 255.
No comments:
Post a Comment