Friday, May 06, 2011

One Thousand Gifts

While at Relevant, I was given a bookmark which included a free download of Ann's book ~ One Thousand Gifts. I got my download and read a few pages only to discover I really prefer a hard copy in my hands - reading and e-copy just wasn't working for me!

So, I pre-ordered my book on Amazon. And, Wednesday after it came out - I was sort of listening for the UPS man all day and hoping it would come. Just after dinner with the evening ahead ~ the doorbell rang and it was here.

As I took the book out of the box, I felt like I wanted to treat Ann's words with care. I was holding a very real piece of her heart and life right in my hands and how to treat that respectfully? First of all, that meant I didn't want to fly through it - but linger and savor it and the time and effort she put into it.

You can read the first chapter here, and as you do - you will discover a hard story. Ann's words are beautifully and artfully written. And, they are from some deep places in her.

After reading the first three chapters, I laid down to sleep and gave thanks for Ann. For the courage to share her journey. I realized what a gift her sister's short life has been ~ for in their agonizing loss ~ multitudes of thanks are rising to Heaven, to the very throne of God. Out of the loss has come enormous gain for God's glory! What a treasure to have that said about a life, and not just said - but a reality!

It proves to us again and again that wonderful and beautiful things come out of our weaknesses and our trials. These are the times we grow the most and are changed the most. And, in His perfect plan ~ our journeys are altered. But, only within His grace. Only with His permission.

Now, I've finished the book and have read it halfway through a second time. I am amazed at how Ann can describe laundry and washing dishes and make them sound like art. Wow!

I am amazed at how I can read God's Word and the words "gave thanks" now jump out at me. I give this book my highest recommendation. It is one that I will enjoy and reference and be inspired and challenged by for years to come. Having a few more glimpses into Ann's heart and what God has spoken through her are even more benefits.

My girls and I have enjoyed the printable lists that provide an opportunity for us to list thanks. Theirs are posted by their beds and mine in my Peace Retreat.

This book feels like a friend because I have hugged the one who wrote it and know that she is a friend and kindred spirit. And, because I love the One who brought her story to us. God, Ann, this book - all definitely on my list of thanks today!!

How can any words I share do justice to Ann's sharing of her heart?! Have you read the book? Carrie's posting her thoughts today too - read here.

18 comments:

Wendi said...

I am still not through this book. I keep stopping to read and re-read things. Soaking so many things in.

*carrie* said...

Thanks for passing the e-book onto me! Glad we could post on the same day--a special day indeed. Talk to you soon.

~katie~ said...

So special, Monica. I, too, feel so privileged and thankful for all the dear ladies of God out there that pour their hearts out ~ whether on a blog or in the pages of a book ~ what a privilege it is to have fellowship with other sisters in Christ who make themselves vulnerable all for the glory of God.

Happy Birthday, sweet Monica!

Birthday Blessings,
Katie

robbie and heather said...

Happy Birthday, Monica! I hope you have a wonderful day!

Pearl said...

Happy Birthday Monica. I hope you have a sweet day and a blessed year to come.

Agnes said...

Hi Monica and Happy Birthday.

thank you for sharing the book. I heard so much about it. I requested it at the library but I am on waiting list, position...46 so it will be a while... but after reading the 1st chapter I might just go and buy the book, it looks so wonderful and I am struggling so much with the same issues, not loosing any babies but asking where God is...
Thank you for sharing

Charity said...

I am reading this now - wonderful book!!

Anonymous said...

Don't you just love even looking at Ann's book? I adore it. God's talent in her woos me to His heart on a deeper level than I ever dreamed of experiencing. Many happy birthday prayers for you!

NeedANap2 said...

Happy Birthday! I've admired Ann and her blog for a while, but still haven't read her book.

Melissa said...

I'm loving your blue blouse!!! And your longer hair!!! What a beauty you are, and so happy with that big smile.

Happy Birthday, dear friend!!!

Huskerbabe said...

I loved that book so much I bought one for my mom and a second one to loan out to friends because I wanted to keep mine safe. :)
Her writing is like poetry, so beautiful and yet such deep topics. I highly recommend it to anyone who hasn't read it.

angie said...

Happy Birthday, Monica! I'm sure another year of healthy living is also on your list of gifts.
I read and cherished Ann's words. I'm also continuing to keep my list of gratitude. As I fall behind in daily journaling, I'm thankful for this ongoing list.

rachel@thecupcakesprinklesinlife said...

She is amazing!
I have been working through the 1000 and decided that when I get there, I will get "eucharisteo" tattooed on my wrist, to always remind me...

Lisa said...

I read Ann on Holy Experience, and I was very much looking forward to One Thousand Gifts. There are some great parts to the book and profound insights. That being said, the writing is VERY flowery. I thought some of her analogies (i.e. making love to God) were a bit over the top. I would not say this is the easiest read. It needs to be read in chunks and not straight through. Overall, I was disappointed...maybe I need to read it again.

GraceAnna said...

I haven't read the book, so I don't have any personal thoughts on it, but I do follow this blog and she posted an interesting article about it that you might be interested in reading!
http://everydaymommy.net/?p=3459

love your blog!

Elaine said...

I am reading the book and am half way through. I just love it. It is not one you hurry through. I want to do a thank you journal when I finish.I am like you...an e-book would not do. I won a copy of this book from another blog and gave it to a dear friend. She also loves it.

Elise said...

I've heard about this book-many bloggers seem to be reading it. I think I may need to invest in my own copy, huh??
Elise
Did I miss a birthday?? Hope you had a wonderful, special day!!!

Mom said...

I'm looking forward to reading this book -- thanks for letting me borrow it for awhile. :) Love you, Mom