Ordinary Losses: Naming the Graces that Shape Us

by Elisa Stanford

Explores the realities and redemptions of loss that are unique to a young adult, such as the loss of expectations, time, relationships and opportunities--every decision we make forces us to give up what we once held tightly so more change may come, but ultimately we realize that loss can be a profound catalyst for inner healing. Original.

123 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 2004

Reviews

[Tom · Rating 1 out of 5]

Okay. I really, really tried to like this book. It is a book I wanted to read. So I started. And in keeping with my goal of reading a book per week and falling a couple of weeks behind I thought this would be a perfect book to read through to catch up. You know, not a real heavy book or long book. But it took forever to get through! I went to Amazon to see what others were saying. 5 reviews, 4 1/2 stars. Crap. I guess i was missing something. It just wasn’t really my style. And I found it somewhat annoying that most of what she is saying (and much of it is good) is linked back to stories from early in her childhood. From 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grade (not exclusively but a lot). How does she remember all this stuff and it was somewhat unbelievable that she could have had the thought processes that she did while she went through events at the early age. To me it seems that it was more of how she now thought about those situations and then projected those feelings and thoughts back into herself at that age. I am not saying she made any of this stuff up or that she didn’t think those thoughts….maybe I am just frustrated because compared to her, my childhood and what I remember of it and my thoughts during it seem rather stupid. It was a book I wanted to read, glad I read it…but even more glad that I am done with it.

[Kristin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This neat little book of essays captured my attention and really made me think. The author looks back at "life so far" from a mid-twenties perspective and reflects on the losses of things such as childhood, home, relatives, etc. that shaped her into who she is becoming. It also talked about how those losses caused her faith and dependence on God to grow. I was able to relate to her on so many levels, and hadn't realized that others feel those losses as deeply as I have. It was really neat to have someone verbalize (well, in writing anyway) so many of the thoughts I have had as I transition from childhood to college to semi-adult and now about to be married. I am thankful for this book!

[Jaci · Rating 2 out of 5]

Maybe a younger person would appreciate this more...