'The Grace Effect', by Larry Alex Taunton - a book review (you could win the review copy)

 A long time ago, in the dim dark past, I used to write book reviews for the Christian Woman magazine. I have always relished a free book, and the opportunity to share new books with others thrills me. (I guess that could describe what I like most about my work at the library.) Some I love, others are just so so, and well others I have struggled to get through, but most books have something about them that is worth discussing.

Happily one day while surfing the net I stumbled upon Booksneeze.com. I signed up. Before I knew it I had chosen a book and it was on its way from the US to country Western Australia. Once again I was writing reviews. Yay!

Here is Book Review One:

An apologist and Christopher Hitchens deep in discussion in a restaurant, way past midnight.
A family flies to the Ukraine to finalise the adoption of an orphaned girl.
This is 'The Grace Effect: how the power of one life can reverse the corruption of unbelief' by Larry Alex Taunton (Thomas Nelson, 2011).

 The blurb on the back of the book says "Simply defined, the 'grace effect' is an observable phenomenon - that life is demonstrably better where authentic Christianity flourishes". I wanted Taunton, Christian apologist,  to persuade me that this is the case, but instead I couldn't get past my frustration with his arguments, and annoyance at his insistence that it is only Christian organisations that make a difference. I support Medicine Sans Frontiers, Amnesty International, and Women to Women International (none of these are affiliated with a religion) and I kept thinking -what of these organisations? Does the world not breathe a little easier because of what they do? I personally know of a young mother in the Congo who would say her life is better for their work.

What I did like, however, was the story that drew me to this book - of how Taunton and his family adopt an Ukrainian orphan. I was once involved with a Christian (yes Christian) organisation that sent aid to orphans in the Ukraine - victims of the Chernobyl disaster, so it felt personal to me. Sasha's feisty nature is so appealing and I found myself wanting everything to work out so that she could live happily ever after with new mum, dad and brothers. (Though is it a sign of success that 'she has forgotten most of her Russian and instead chatters away in an easy if  heavily accented English' ?  p221) I loved the photos of Sasha at her brother's wedding. What joy.

I was disappointed that I felt so critical of ' The Grace Effect'. No one would doubt Taunton's love for his adopted daughter or of his commitment to Christ, but I was not comfortable with this story of love mixed in with an apologist's argument. I just wanted to read about Sasha. Sadly I was relieved to finish it. I'm giving it a 2 out of 5.  Judging by other reviews, not everyone will feel the same way as me.

If you live locally and would like to win the review copy be the first to leave a comment. I would love to discuss it with you over a cuppa in the library. 

Asta x

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive 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 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

The impulse to impress.

I am slowly working through Jan L Richardson's retreat for Women's Christmas - what an awesome concept, what a lovely journey. (http://sanctuaryofwomen.com/womenschristmasretreat2012.html)

Jan writes of an artist-in-residence at a gathering of clergy. This woman is a potter and caught Jan's attention because, as she watched her and listened to her, it became obvious that they were 'encountering a woman whose life and creative work had worn away the impulse to impress, to prove, to convince. In her years of working with clay, the clay had also worked on her.' Jan goes on to write, 'Shed of pretense the potter held out to us what she had to give. It was more than sufficient.'  She held out a small piece of pottery cupped in her hand, like a humble offering.

This made me think about what I have to offer from deep down within me. If I drop my need to please, to manipulate, to hide behind my appearance what will be left if it is simply me that stands there with my hands cupped and held out in front of me? Is simply being me sufficient?

Quite sometime ago I stopped hiding behind my hair when I cut almost all of it off and stopped colouring it. More  recently I stopped wearing make up, and I am still finding this a little difficult at times, but mostly I feel freer. Everyday I wonder what I am to do with my clothing. As I journey along on The Simple Living Challenge perhaps the biggest challenge will be to learn how to be me - simply Asta and to know that I am enough.

Launching - The Simply Living Challenge

Today I launched my first Facebook page to coincide with Day One of my new 'The Simple Living Challenge'. In the Info section I wrote as an explanation: The author Gretchen Ruben took 'happiness' and made it her project ('The Happiness Project"). I am taking 'simple living' and making it mine. As Gretchen explored her thoughts on happiness others joined the journey. Each month I will post the challenge I am setting for myself - and it is my hope that, like Gretchen, I will have companions on the way. 

For a very long time I have been exploring what simplicity means for me. I have notebook after notebook filled with ideas and books galore on the subject, but I feel a strong call now to do more than write or read about it. Now I need to take action. And in fact I have been. 

So this is the plan. Each month I will set myself a challenge - really what I will be doing is a lot of pondering... and I am hoping that this will lead to action. During this time I will write about how the challenge is going and invite comments. What I would like most is for others to share what has worked for them or what has not - to have a friend or two (or more) to walk along with me. The simple way is not new. Christ, St Francis and Thoreau (amongst others) are my inspiration. 

Now to get me started I'd really appreciate some ideas. I need at least one challenge a month. I know what I will do for November (that is Buy Nothing New month) but how about the rest of the year? January would be as good as any place to start. 

Will you join me on this adventure? It could change our lives. 

Asta x

This spacious place before New Year.

Christmas was 'simply' marvellous. It started with a  'Santa' gift for our 14-year-old, a big animal rights supporter. She was genuinely happy with her certificate informing her that on her behalf a donation had been made to Animals Australia. (I feel like I have done something right. I wonder how many kids would be happy with this.)

 Four of us took ourselves to church at the decent time of 10.30. We took our time to prepare food and by mid afternoon we were joined by my best friend and her family, down from the city. It made my heart sing to see those teenagers sitting around our dining room table happily playing board games and cards, with no prompting from me. We exchanged no gifts, as planned, and I don't think anyone felt deprived.

The highlight for me though - was the addition of our rescued greyhound. We collected him from his foster carer just before Christmas. It was a 6 hour round trip. What a pleasure it was to share Christmas with him - and most of all to give him a forever home. He is so very worthy of love and we are privileged to have this gentle, placid, regal and most kindly creature in our home. (If you want to know more check out GreyhoundAngels of Western Australia on Facebook.)

 I am happy that Christmas was not materialistic and that our greatest fun came from family, friendship and a dog we've named Jasper (Jasper - a red gemstone - because he is red, and that was his former name, and he is a gem!).

I love that we have this spacious place now just after Christmas and before New Year to reflect on the year and to look forward to the new one.

I am encouraged that we managed to get through the Christmas period with our ideals in tact.

I feel hopeful that I truly can live more simply and that I will breathe a little easier in 2012 because I am finally living by my convictions. I don't have a long list of resolutions this year. I have a visual journal with images and words that support my growing vision of simple living - and a heart of gratitude for things beyond stuff.

Tis the season for re-gifting tra la la la la la la la la....

In the last few days I have given away many loved items. Some of these things came straight off my wall or from around my neck, others were one-day-ers. If one day comes I am sure I will be able to replace them. And how sweet it was to see that I had made the right matches with my gifts. I feel I could give almost everything away now. I could almost do a 'St Francis'. Only my library holds me back from doing this completely, and I rather like my computer! And I have my family reminding me that they do have a say about shared items.

What excites me is that I am not the only one doing this now, this re-gifting.It really doesn't have the stigma it used to. Maybe it depends on how much love goes into it. At our staff party yesterday my Secret Santa gave me a re-gifted gift - two treasured books, one wrapped in a beautiful handmade book wrap! A card said how hard it had been to part with these books that she had read and re-read over many, many years. My language was being spoken and it took all my emotional energy not to cry. It really made me think - anyone can grab a present from a shop shelf, not everyone can give a treasure away. When they do it makes the gift very special indeed ( as long as the recipient is like me and gets it, I guess).

My dear friend Caroline sent me her copy of the Christmas edition of the Australian Woman's Weekly. It just arrived this morning. It is so refreshing to read of people who want, amongst other non material things, 'calm' for Christmas. There is an article about faith and Christmas with one lady featured sharing about how her family buy practical gifts for those in developing countries (two Secret Santa gifts were these yesterday, actually one from me), and a simple liver gets a mention in the Christmas day section. There could be more. This was all gleaned from my first casual flick.

The internet has lots of stories about alternative Christmases - ones that are going back to good old family values, and there seems a lot of talk about it in general.

 Can anyone else feel the shift in the universe? Things are a foot. I wonder if it is just the company I keep, but I don't think it is just that. Materialism isn't what it used to be. It's lies are bringing it undone. People don't want to be in debt to a lie any more!!!

It is funny that as I prepare my heart for Christmas and focus on the coming of Christ, I am also preparing to foster/adopt a rescued greyhound. I told a friend at church about simplifying my life and in the same breath I told her about my dog. She thought that was a contradiction in terms, only it's not, is it? I think I am finally getting it. My life is better when it focuses on relationships - my relationship with my creator God, my husband and children, my extended family, my friends and my pets!

Merry Christmas and if you haven't thought of re-gifting can I suggest you have a go. Pick your recipients carefully and give them something you love. Then watch their reaction and note how happy and free you feel. It really is a gift within a gift. Consider also the value in giving the gift of yourself - the gift of our time. Everyone loves focused attention.

It was said that He (Jesus) would be called the Prince of Peace. May peace be within you and yours this Christmas.

Love,

Asta x

Are clothes a distraction? Thoughts on simple living.

My friend Natalie has been posting 'Finishing 2011 Strong' on Facebook. Today's reading (which must have taken her forever to type out) says so much about simple living and the things that have been on my mind. You can read these words of wisdom near the bottom of this entry.

 I have just finished reading 'The 100 Thing Challenge: How I got rid of almost everything, remade my life, and regained my soul' by Dave Bruno (http://guynameddave.com/100-thing-challenge/). At the end of the book Dave gives the reader suggestions on how to create your own 100 Thing Challenge - and so I am having a go at his first suggestion: Choose seven complete outfits and section them off from your other clothes. Wear them for the next couple of weeks or more. He suggests this because most people are nervous about getting rid of clothes and he wants the reader to prove to themselves that they can 'dress comfortably and look dignified' on less and because 'clothes are a distraction'. You'll notice Natalie's bible verses have quite a bit to say about clothing.

I actually have this bizarre thought - and anyone who knows me will know just how bizarre it is - that I could get rid of all my many, many bright and much loved op-shop finds and just buy a few simple outfits. I wonder how many I would need...any thoughts?  This is like me telling people how much I would enjoy a silent retreat. That comment is always met with cynicism, because I love a chat. But what a relief it would be to do the opposite. (And I know I am suited to it because I have gone long periods without talking, and in company.) The same with clothes. I love colours and accessorising, but what would it feel like to let it go - to wear simple clothing and paired down accessories? (And anyway my funky glasses say it all these days!)

And make up and hair - what of them? I have never regretted shaving off my hair and letting it go grey, and I am always amused and somewhat pleased that people generally like it, and that some see it as an encouragement to do the same.  Today I bravely went to the shop with no make up on! Hah. It felt good. All I had on my face was my home made moisturiser. I have to confess it was only our little local shop. Can I do that down town? At work?

It will be a process - this simplifying, this paring back. In 2012 I am going to make this my focus. Here is Natalie's verses for today. I hope that something in this resonates with you as it did with me. Thanks Nat.

Scripture: Matthew 6:25-34 
MSG-25-26"If you decide for God, living a life of God-worship, it follows that you don't fuss about what's on the table at mealtimes or whether the clothes in your closet are in fashion. There is far more to your life than the food you put in your stomach, more to your outer appearance than the clothes you hang on your body. Look at the birds, free and unfettered, not tied down to a job description, careless in the care of God. And you count far more to him than birds.

27-29"Has anyone by fussing in front of the mirror ever gotten taller by so much as an inch? All this time and money wasted on fashion—do you think it makes that much difference? Instead of looking at the fashions, walk out into the fields and look at the wildflowers. They never primp or shop, but have you ever seen color and design quite like it? The ten best-dressed men and women in the country look shabby alongside them.

30-33"If God gives such attention to the appearance of wildflowers—most of which are never even seen—don't you think he'll attend to you, take pride in you, do his best for you? What I'm trying to do here is to get you to relax, to not be so preoccupied with getting, so you can respond to God's giving. People who don't know God and the way he works fuss over these things, but you know both God and how he works. Steep your life in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions. Don't worry about missing out. You'll find all your everyday human concerns will be met.

34"Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now, and don't get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow. God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes.— Make a list of your worries and concerns and how those are hindering your journey with God. Are there people or circumstances that need to be fully surrendered? Give each worry to God in prayer, asking Him to shoulder those burdens on your 
behalf.

Christmas planning update:
In my last entry I mentioned that we are having a no gift giving Christmas day. We now have a little loop hole - re-gifting and making gifts is fine, and the kids are all in agreement. In fact our daughter is so against 'stuff' and 'clutter' that she has stipulated that even a re-gifted gift or a handmade gift must not become more 'stuff'. She says that she feels like she is already drowning in it. Her ideal gift is a consumable! That's easy. Her dad is making her a cheesecake and I am making a writing paper set decorated with potato prints. She's our youngest and a gift giver by nature so this is something that we feel we should do for her. Her brothers seem relieved to be let off the hook. I am really looking forward to our Christmas day, and our focus on Christ, and the gift of time that we will give one another!

Peace be within you this Christmas season.

Asta x

Christmas

Christmas is just around the corner, and this year more than ever, I feel affronted by the commercialisation of it all. It makes me feel ill. What's happened to me? I'm told that I will make my family happy if I buy them 'stuff'. It is absolutely expected of me. People keep asking me if I have done my shopping yet? The shops keep telling me to buy. The ads on TV, the radio, in the newspaper - tell me I only have a few days left! There is this nagging voice in the back of my mind that tells me I'm mean spirited if I don't buy my children something - and something big. Won't they think that they are unloved? Will they compare me to their friends' mothers? Maybe I won't measure up as a mum. What will their friends think? And so my mind goes on and on tying me up in knots.

Is it wrong to buy something for someone else, rather than my teens and adult son, my husband - like chickens for a family in a developing country through charities such as TEAR Australia, or as I just did today - a book each (The Prisoner: An invitation to hope, Paul Everett) for the lonely prisoners I write to ? Is it wrong to put money into things we can share - like the vegie garden we've wanted to get started? Is it wrong to not spend money at all?

On Christmas day my best friend is coming down for lunch with her family. We have decided that we will not exchange gifts with the intention of turning the focus onto what Christmas is about - the birth of Christ, who would surely have a thing or two to say to us about what we have done with his birthday! I am looking forward to sharing conversation and laughter over a meal, playing board games, to a long walk in the late afternoon, and to just being in the presence of these people I love dearly. I know my children are too, and they have not shown any disappointment at the 'no gifts' idea. (Well at least when it comes to Christmas day. There are a few 'humphs' about no individual gifts at all. We are planning family conference about this. Homemade gifts - especially food, are a real possibility.)

It is difficult to broach this subject with some people, and so I usually don't. It can seem as though I am being self righteous, and not at all how I want to come across. I just want to be allowed to approach Christmas my way, without being labelled a scrooge and yes I would like to challenge my family to consider where we stand on this. Really we have more than enough. Our house can't fit any more. It feels almost obscene.

The first to visit Jesus at his birth were the shepherds. They were humble. They brought nothing but themselves. (Why do we forget this and think of the kings and their expensive gifts?) This Christmas I want Jesus to be enough to satisfy me. And I want to know that I am enough. The love of Jesus is not conditional on a gift. And thank goodness for that. I recently read that we are atrocious at gift giving. Apparently Americans give over 70 billion dollars worth of gifts that the receivers don't want or even like!

Now after reading this you may be surprised to know that I am a gift giver ( I actually love to give something of myself - a prized possession, something I've made, books that will make a difference, a letter or card...). I just don't believe that we have to give expensive gifts that will put us, or our loved ones, in debt. And if there is any time that we should remember this it is at Christmas when Jesus entered this world naked, with nothing but love to give.