Peace In The Margins

Another Monday and another book review. Now, don’t get used to a Monday Book Review every week – I’m just not that quick of a reader during a normal week. This week was not normal. The hubby and I had a great stay-cation. What does that mean: I read all week!

This week I finished Anne Lamott’s newest book Almost Everything Notes on Hope. I just love Anne’s writing. She has a knack for telling it like it is, yet lyrically and worthy of the English professor she is. Life is life, and Anne doesn’t sugarcoat that fact. She is transparent and candid, and while I relate to her delivery, I’m certain she’s missed some of the teachings in Scripture. Even with our differing beliefs of who God is and what Jesus can do for you, I do think we can grasp nuggets from her perspective. And if nothing else, her writing style is excellent.

This book is actually Anne’s letter to her grandson and niece; a letter of hope that encourages them that life is life. In this letter, she tells her readers there is value in living and value in dying. She also says there is value in the struggle of self-love and in turn loving those around you – even if you see them as unlovable.

She writes, “I have value. I want to get that tattooed on my forearm” (40). And once we accept that we have value, then we must also accept that everyone has value – EVERYONE.

Anne also writes about experiencing the presence of God, and tells us,

“The love of our dogs is the closest most of us will come to knowing the direct love of God on this side of eternity” (132).

An unconditional love that, try as we may, we just can’t totally comprehend. One that doesn’t say, “Get cleaned up, and then we can talk.” Instead, it is a love that says, “Come as you are.”

While I do agree with those statements, I also know that this wonderful and loving God is also a jealous God who cannot condone sin. He calls EVERYONE to salvation, we just have to repent and turn to Him.

I borrowed Anne’s book from my local library, but may have to purchase this one.

An Unsolicited Review.

Until next time,

Alicia