by Roseanna White | Mar 31, 2011 | Thoughtful Thursdays, Uncategorized
This might sound like a strange blog post for someone who’s still jigging along one of life’s mountaintops, right? And in a way it is. But it’s something that’s come to mind from various sources this last week, so let’s see where it goes . . .
Two of my good friends have cancer–you may remember me mentioning that months ago. Both have been undergoing treatment and seeing results.
Both have just had setbacks.
I find it a little strange that though their stories are very different, Mary and Sandi seem to be coming up against things at nearly identical times. For Mary, whose cancer is in her leg, this latest setback is a broken femur, which has put her in incredible pain. For Sandi, who’s trying to get rid of a tumor and cancer in the bone marrow so she can get a bone marrow transplant, the setback was news that the tumor had stopped responding to chemo and had grown.
Not cool. And I can only the imagine the fear when you go into the hospital wondering, “What now? What’s wrong this time?” It stinks. It hurts. Because you’re already fighting so much, so hard, that to be told something isn’t working or went wrong . . . it could be devastating.
On a lesser scale, I’ve experienced this with my daughter lately. She has always, always, always shown her stress through sleep patterns–and interruptions of them. These past couple weeks, she has been a total monster when we put her to bed, and I had thought we were over that, so it was doubly frustrating. Then after a few nights of improvement, when she started to show signs of a fit again, I nearly banged my head into the wall. And why? She was still way better than she’d been.
But we want forward progress. Always, in everything, we want to stride forward. I think it’s probably part of our genetic makeup as humans, so it’s no big surprise when those setbacks bring us down. Make us question. Lead to a little hair-pulling. We don’t want to go back. Not to bad behavior, not to sad times, and certainly not to worse health.
I think (and this is pure speculation) that faith is probably lost more through the mountain of little things, those “minor” setbacks, than through the big disasters of life. The big things we know we have to handle with faith and grace. So we gather all our courage, all our strength, all our will, and say, “Let’s do this, Lord!” We’re certain He’s with us, even through the awful.
But when a few steps forward only send us slipping back, that’s when it’s so easy to ask, “I already gave it my all, Lord! Why this? Why more? Why?”
I don’t know about you, but I don’t often get answers to that question.
Yesterday I read Psalm 46, which is probably best known for verse 10: Be still, and know that I am God. For perhaps the first time, I paid attention to the context of that yesterday. The whole psalm is about how God is always there, God is our refuge. Is trouble thundering around you? He’s there. Is there a place of beauty and gladness? He’s there. See, look–wars come to an end. Bows and spears are broken. Chariots are burned. All those things with which we fight, where we might think our victory lies . . . He destroys them. Why?
Be still, and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth!
The Lord of Hosts is with us;
The God of Jacob is our refuge.
Yesterday, those words said to me, “Stop fighting. Stop thinking you have to. When trouble comes, don’t grab your weapon. I am the one who casts those mountains into the sea, and I am the one who tells the battles the halt. I am ruler of this rockface that comes crashing down, and why would you not trust me? Did I not make a refuge for you from the very same rock?”
We question, and questioning can be good. But when the storms around us are louder than our praise, when the nations are raging and our shelter is moved, when forward slips into backward, sometimes we have to remember this from verse 6:
He uttered His voice, the earth melted.
With a single murmur from the Lord, all can change. Our part is to be still, to give it all to him. To trust. It’s not easy when we’re facing setbacks. But the God of the flood is also the God of the trickling leak.
We put our hands into His when trouble first strikes. Let’s be sure we only grip it the harder when the setbacks come.
by Roseanna White | Mar 30, 2011 | Remember When Wednesdays, Uncategorized
I find the idea of mediums totally bizarre. I mean, people who talk to the dead? Who can summon them up? Um . . . weird. And unbelievable. As in, the kind of thing that makes most of us roll our eyes and go “Riiiiiiight.” Right? Surely anyone claiming to be a medium is really just a charlatan. A fake. A phony.
So why does God order us not to go to them?To be “defiled by them” as He puts it? Hmm. Why, for instance, in I Samuel 28, does Saul first toss all the mediums out of the land, then seek one out? Do you remember that part of Saul’s story? It’s crazy. Samuel has just died, but Saul needs his advice. So what does he do? He goes to one of the mediums that Samuel himself had instructed Saul to cast out and has her call up Saul so he can ask him a question.
The really crazy thing? It works. It’s right there in the Bible. So obviously this isn’t just a hoax (all the time, anyway). Which begs the question of what it is. And since God tells us very clearly not to do it, not to go to the people who do, and not to have anything to do with it, that makes it pretty clear–this stuff is possible, but it’s not of the Lord. Which means it’s of His enemy.
Let’s fast-forward a couple thousand years to Victorian England and America. As you may remember from my intro post on Spiritualism a couple weeks ago, it became rather suddenly fashionable to be into the afterlife and looking for a bridge between it and this life. Enter mediums. There were a few very famous, very notable ones reported to do everything from summon a hand to touch someone to a dead relative to give a few words to call up full-bodied apparitions (like the one in I Samuel). We have no way of knowing today which of these mediums was faking and which weren’t. And even in the day when it was happening, folks had a hard time deciding, sometimes, what was real and what was hoax.
There seemed to be a few main categories of how people reacted. There were those willing to believe anything, and who tried to tap into personal abilities to do this stuff too (housewives and servants were apparently especially predisposed to this–perhaps because it brought a little excitement into their lives?), there were those who were willing to entertain the notion and keep an open mind about it. And there were those who thought it all a bunch of nonsense. Those, at least, are the reactions I’ve seen recorded.
But where, I wonder, were those who believed it could and did happen, but took the Biblical stand and cried out against it because it could and did happen, but was wrong? Well, that’s where my fictional heroine comes in, if ever I settle down to write this novel. =) She’s not going to take too kindly to folks parading out their young children and using them as mediums, no sirree. Why? Because it’s real–and because it’s real, it’s dangerous. Oh, if only everyone would listen to her . . . 😉
Happy Wednesday everyone!
by Roseanna White | Mar 29, 2011 | Uncategorized
I am a HUGE MaryLu Tyndall fan, so when a signed copy of Surrender the Night arrived on my doorstep, I did a little jig. I loved Surrender the Heart and couldn’t wait to read the second book in the Surrender to Destiny Series. But alas–it was third at the time in my to-be-read stack.
Then life descended in the form of a 5-year-old who decided bedtime was a good time to move to Tantrum Town. I haven’t read at all in the past week, other than a little snippet last Saturday. But last night, when she finally went to bed like a normal kid (which means some “But I’m not tired!” whining, but no fits), I cracked open Surrender the Night again. Ah, bliss.
I’m only four chapters in, but already I’m loving this book. Rose lives on a farm outside of Baltimore, where she does her best to hide from the memories of all the British took from her–her parents, her home, and her innocence. But when British soldiers again invade her world, and she again finds herself at the mercy of a brutal soldier, she prays the Lord will be merciful and let her die.
Instead, 2nd Lieutenant Alexander Reed stands against his superior, risking a court martial when his conscience forbids the attack on one more innocent woman. Perhaps he saves her life, but he knows well his own is forfeit. For if the British Navy doesn’t punish him, the Americans surely will when the fair damsel he rescued turns him in.
Rose hides the man in the barn as long as she can so she can nurse him back to health, but when a fever sets in, she fears this man will yet be her ruin. Her only goal is to get him back on his feet and away from her . . . but of course, the back of the book cover promises love intervenes. =)
That’s as far as I’ve gotten, but golly. I’m already in love. A tomboy beauty who prefers the company of pigs to men . . . a handsome hero who chose nobility over the war that wasn’t his own . . . perfect. I am seriously looking forward to reading more when peace and quiet (or at least the absence of fits) permits! You can be sure I’ll post a full review after I’ve finished. =)
by Roseanna White | Mar 28, 2011 | Word of the Week
My best friend Stephanie put in a word of the week request, so today’s dedicated to her. 😉 Today’s word of the week is . . .
Adorable.
And Stephanie brings it up for a good reason. As modern parents, we use the word adorable a lot. And usually for our cute little kids. If I were to define “adorable” off the top of my head, it would mean something like “cute, a delight.” But when you look at the word . . . “adore”? Hmm . . . so maybe add “lovable” to the definition?
I looked this one up in three different sources to try to get an idea of how it’s evolved. Here’s what I found. At its origins, “adorable” meant “worthy of divine worship” just like one might think. So really, only God was called adorable. But as time went on, it became applied to others and took on the meaning of “worthy of passionate attachment.” From there it softened still more to “very attractive or delightful; charming.”
So there you have it. From only applied to God to mostly applied to kids and puppies (do a Google image search for the word, LOL), adorable has softened over the years from something divine to something delightful. Not a total change of meaning, but definitely a noteworthy shift. Thanks, Stephanie, for bringing it up. =)
Anybody else have a word you’d like me to look into for ya? Leave a comment and I’ll add it to the roster. =)
by Roseanna White | Mar 25, 2011 | Uncategorized
Today I’m happy to welcome Cathy West to the blog to tell you about her debut novel, Yesterday’s Tomorrow (isn’t that just an AWESOME title??).
Cathy has generously offered a copy in giveaway, so please leave your comments below with an email address to be entered.
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About Yesterday’s Tomorrow
She’s after the story that might get her the Pulitzer. He’s determined to keep his secrets to himself. Vietnam, 1967. Independent, career-driven journalist Kristin Taylor wants two things: to honor her father’s memory by becoming an award-winning overseas correspondent and to keep tabs on her only brother, Teddy, who signed up for the war against their mother’s wishes. Brilliant photographer Luke Maddox, silent and brooding, exudes mystery. Kristin is convinced he’s hiding something. Willing to risk it all for what they believe in, Kristin and Luke engage in their own tumultuous battle until, in an unexpected twist, they’re forced to work together. Ambushed by love, they must decide whether or not to set aside their own private agendas for the hope of tomorrow that has captured their hearts.
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About Cathy
Educated in Bermuda, England and Canada, Catherine holds a degree in English from the University of Toronto. When she’s not at the computer working on her next story, you can find her taking her Border Collie for long walks or tending to her roses and orchids. Catherine and her husband live on the beautiful island of Bermuda, with their two college-aged children. Catherine is a member of Romance Writers of America, and American Christian Fiction Writers, and is a founding member of International Christian Fiction Writers. Catherine’s debut novel Yesterday’s Tomorrow, will release in 2011, through Oak Tara Publishers.
Website:
http://www.catherinejwest.com Oak Tara Website:
http://www.oaktara.com
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What’s your latest book?
My latest release is called Yesterday’s Tomorrow, due March 2011, through Oak Tara Publishers.
I’ve heard such great things about it! What’s your favorite part of the story?
Yesterday’s Tomorrow is a love story. And since I absolutely adore happy endings, without giving too much away, I’d have to say the ending!
=) Happy endings are a MUST! What was the hardest part to write?
The story takes place during the Vietnam War. I did a lot of research for the book, and I think the hardest parts for me, were the scenes where Kristin had to deal with what was going on around her—death, destruction and the devastating results of a war on a nation, both in Vietnam and back in the US.
I’m not really old enough to remember that time, not even American, so I basically just had to try really hard to put myself in Kristin’s shoes and hope I got it right!
Yeah, I know that feeling, LOL. What do you hope your readers will get out of the story?
So many things. Even though a lot of the story takes place within a warzone, I wanted to show that there is hope to be found in even the darkest of places. I think one can see the frailties of human nature, the need for forgiveness and the ultimate victory that is found in redemption.
Lovely. Is there a theme to this book?
It struck me while I was writing this story, that truly, ‘There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.’ John 15:13 NLT That’s the spiritual theme of the book—remembering what countless brave men and women on the frontlines have done, and a reminder of what Christ did for us.
Wow–so touching! What’s your favorite genre to write? To read?
Romance all the way! I love a good romance from beginning to end, with plenty of twists and turns to keep me guessing. Of course we know it’ll turn out the way we hope, but there’s nothing like a little anticipation to keep a reader turning those pages! I also enjoy reading literary fiction, and big sweeping family sagas that span generations.
I tend to stick to writing contemporary romance, although I have written a women’s fiction novel.
Hear, hear! Are there any people (family, writing group, editors) who you rely on when writing?
I can’t say enough about American Christian Fiction Writers. Honestly, had I not joined this group six years ago, I seriously doubt I’d be sitting here looking at my first published novel. From the comraderie that takes place between writers, to the teaching, the critique groups and the annual conference, this group is amazing, and I’d be utterly lost without them! I also have a few wonderful critique partners and friends who keep me going when I’m ready to chuck it all out the window, and of course my fabulous agent, Rachelle Gardner. She’s always there to bounce ideas off, and ready to give me a swift kick in the derriere when I need one!
That would be where I “know” you from. =) Aside from writing, what takes up most of your time?
I love to garden – I grow roses and orchids. I also keep active with my two year old Border Collie, as well as weekly volunteering with Bermuda Riding for the Disabled. And I try to read as much as I can.
I would love your garden. =) Roses and orchids are two of my favorites. What are you writing right now?
Right now I’m working on two manuscripts. The first is called Reprisal – a family saga, heavy on the romance of course, that I hope to have finished in the next few months. The second story is a straight romance, First Harvest, about a young woman who travels to Sonoma to help convince her grandfather to sell his winery and move back east, and soon realizes, once she meets her grandfather’s vintner, that she’s in for quite a fight!
Oo, they sound great! Is there another author who has greatly influenced your writing?
Yes, there are several. Deborah Raney was probably the first Christian author I read. After I finished A Vow to Cherish, I thought, I’d really love to write like that! Imagine my surprise to find Deb was a member of ACFW. As it turns out, she was one of the first people to show interest in Yesterday’s Tomorrow, and gave me some great insight into the story. Her valuable input, advice and encouragement has meant so much to me over the years. She is a great mentor to many writers.
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Void where prohibited. Entry into the contest is considered verification of eligibility based on your local laws. Chance of winning depends on number of entries. Contest ends 4/1/11. Winner will have two weeks to claim prize.
Roseanna M. White is a bestselling, Christy Award winning author who has long claimed that words are the air she breathes. Having successfully launched two homeschool grads, she now spends her time writing fiction, designing book covers, and pretending her house will clean itself. Roseanna is the author of a slew of historical novels that span several continents and thousands of years, as well as a fantasy series and contemporary mysteries and romances. Spies and war and mayhem always seem to find their way into her books…to offset her real life, which is blessedly ordinary.