Constructing a New Normal

 

A broken arm, a lost rosary, a missing child, an unforseen pilgrimage, advancing years, the death of a spouse...these are just a few of the losses that can catapult us into chaos until we find a way to reclaim or transition to a normal life. It can come in the small, seemingly ordinary moments when we suddenly, or gradually, become aware of God's presence. It can come in the sound of rain that ends a drought, in the voice or someone we love, in a hug of a child, or the nearness of an animal companion. It can come in a shared meal or a quiet cup of tea.

 

In society, including the society of organized religion, working for normalcy means working for justice, inclusiveness, reconciliation, and restoration. Helen doesn't mince words when it comes to her passion. She addresses all these issues with grace, courage, tongue-in-cheek humor, and a love for the riches of language and the power of metaphor.

 

With wisdom born from her bumps and bruises, she knows what it means to "start slowly and increase the range." And she knows what it means to live life to the fullest, wherever we may be in grief and transition. If you don't know Helen personally when you open this book, you will soon feel that you and she are the kind of friends who can share fears, failings, faith, dreams and an ordinary grace-filled life.