When Your Voice Became Mine There Is A Mailbox In Heaven

by Celeste N. Bowers

Time does not exist in heaven. Since heaven is our real home, I will not allow time to consume me here on earth; instead, I choose to use my precious time wisely.
I have been sending "packages" to heaven--letters that I write to my ten-year-old daughter, Christina--since she passed away on May 29, 2005. Each one is tied with my hopes, wishes, and new-found purpose. What I never fathomed were the gifts from above that would be sent back to me. In a moment, Christina's voice became mine. In that same moment, I knew there IS a mailbox in heaven

142 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2019

Reviews

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is so much to love about this book, and it is one that will stick with me for a long time. I initially decided to sign up to review it because a very dear friend of mine passed away at the end of August, and I felt drawn to the book’s description. However, as I realized that it was next up on my list, I started having second thoughts. With various health concerns and other issues causing me to feel overwhelmed already, I definitely did not feel up to reading a book about a child’s battle with cancer, even if it was an inspirational story, because I didn’t want to also experience the sorrowful aspect. Yet as I began reading, I realized that this was a book that blew my assumptions and expectations out of the water.

With “When Your Voice Became Mine”, Celeste Bowers chronicles the hard journey of her daughter’s unexpected and short battle with cancer, but as she asserts in the introduction, this book is not about cancer but rather about how her daughter, Christina, glorified God with her life. In following other families’ journeys through devastating diagnoses and through those of some of my own friends who have passed away, the one thing that stands out the most is their extraordinary faith. The same is true here. “And a little child shall lead them” kept echoing in my head while I read. Christina’s impact and legacy of faith in Christ lives on and grows, and it inspires me to become bolder in my faith. You never know whose life you might touch and how God will reap a harvest from the seeds you sow.

This book is very unique, not only in its extraordinary message of hope and faith, but also in its format. Glancing through the pages, it seems like a normal layout, with occasional black-and-white photographs included, but it is actually epistolary nonfiction, the first that I’ve read as far as I can recall. Rather than having titled chapters, this book is divided into segments that each represent a package from heaven. They are written as Bowers speaking directly to her daughter through a letter, but with enough background information tactfully woven in so that it makes sense to the reader. I think that this is most of the reason that this book is so upbeat. These writings are heartfelt, poignant, inspirational, and unwaveringly hopeful. I imagine that they have been cathartic for Bowers, and I think that writing letters like this to loved ones could be a powerful tool during the grieving process and beyond. Referencing Christina’s own words at age 10, Bowers sums up her daughter’s calling: “Those words live on and inspire so many people: It’s not about me. It’s about Christ working through me. Your journey was not about cancer or even solely about you. It was about allowing our Lord to work through you to bring others closer to Him, for His name and for His glory.” May that be the life goal of each of us!

I received a complimentary copy of this book through Celebrate Lit and was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.

[Neha Bhatt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Title - When Your Voice Became Mine: There IS A Mailbox In Heaven
Author - Celeste N. Bowers
Pages - 128
Genre - Literature
Publisher - Redemption Press
Format - Kindle Edition

🔹

The pain of losing someone dear is one of the most miserable feelings I wish no one faces. When Your Voice Became Mine: There IS A Mailbox In Heaven is not just a book, but a feeling, love of a Mother for her Daughter. This book will make you want to love your dear ones even more and keep them close more than earlier.

I won't say reading, but while feeling this book, you will feel as if the author is sitting next to you and narrating the story. Though the story is heart-wrenching but the way little Christina was brave, the way she praised God, her unconditional faith in God, was heart-warming and made me emotional. By the end, I had tears in my eyes.

Loved it, loved it, and loved it, this is what I have to say at the end. Recommended to everyone, keep a tissue box ready with you while you feel this beautifully warm story. 😊❤️

🔹

[Megan Rivera · Rating 5 out of 5]

My life is like a puzzle; Many pieces have fallen out. What was once almost a picture Is blurred and scattered about.Pieces that seemed to fit Have all gone askew: Twisted, torn, upside down, Except for a selected few. Where do I turn? No cover to guide. Where do I start again? Corner or side? Or do I just trust in You, The center of my life and heart? Your Word is a thread That unites each missing part.Grounded in You, I grasp New pieces along the way. Even if they don’t fit now, They’ll hold great value someday. And at that moment when I see You, The picture is complete. Nothing missing in my life, Just joy, eternally sweet! This is a touching story about Christina who passed away. It was a great book.

[Janice Sisemore · Rating 5 out of 5]

When your Voice Became Mine

It would be very hard to lose a child to cancer. I love how this book was written to remember Christina. She was born June 28, 1994 and passed away on May 29, 2005. In her short life she made a impact on other people through Christ.

I love this quote from the book. “How could I watch you, my dearest daughter, carry your cross with such a courageous spirit-and not carry mine?” The author says it is her turn and also to share her daughter voice with the world.

This book is amazing. I recommend reading this book. You will be blessed by it.

I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher through Celebrate Lit. This book review is my own opinion.

[Janice Garey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review Title: Christina's Legacy (Review of When Your Voice Became Mine:There.IS a Mailbox in Heaven by Celeste Bowers)
Reviewer: Janice S. Garey

This book is the heart touching story of the life of Christina Bowers who died from cancer at the young age of ten. It is a record of many lives touched by her joy of living her words to the full, "It's not about me. It's about Christ working through me."

Celeste Bowers, the mother of Christina and author of this book, has turned a tragedy into a positive force for good by sharing this story. On one level, it seems like a journal or diary of life shaping events in one family and community, but on another level, it is universal as it shows how people across the globe can connect through the sharing of tragic events in empathy. Many serendipidous events are recorded that indicate God's miraculous handling of big and small details.

This book serves as a great example of how those who are in grief from the death or expected death of a loved one might go about organizing thoughts about the importance and significance of a life. As Celeste penned the book, there must have been some down times of reflection, however, the book is always upbeat and positive. It allows Christina's goal to let Christ be known through her life shine brightly.

I am thankful I now feel like I know Christina and her goodness. I felt Christ's love radiating from the book. I felt joy each time I read even as I was fully aware of the tragedy that made the book possible. Christina was blessed through the love of her family and her Christian church and school community. This story will be an eye opener to those not in a Christian or faith community as to the amount of support available during such tragic times.

On a practical level, I found the book full of ideas of things to do to help those in families who are going through sufferings from health issues. Often people want to help but don't have a clue what might be helpful rather than offering an unwanted hindrance. This story will serve as a perfect example to those who wish to commemorate the life of a deceased beloved one. The publisher did a wonderful job on the book cover, editing, and formatting. I thank the publisher and author for the copy of the book I won from a book launch gathering. I am under no obligation to write a favorable review. I have shared my honest opinion in this review.

[DALIP · Rating 4 out of 5]

*First Things First This Book Was Arranged And Offered Absolutely Free By Booktasters For An Honest Review And Sent Across By The Author Celeste N Bowers*
Let Me State At The Very Start That Pain & Grief Is A Very Personal & Private Emotion That Not Everyone Can Feel Leave Alone Fathom Because One Can Only Feel The Real Pinch When The Shoe Is On Your Own Foot.
Any Personal Loss Is Not Easy To Tackle But Nothing Is More Gut Wrenching For A Parent To Have A Child Snatched Away And Then Being Left To Carry On Living.
The Pain Further Intensifies When The Child Is Snatched Away Even Before They Could Blossom. So It Takes A Lot Of Courage And Steely Grit To Find Meaning With What Is Left Of Life And Keep Alive Your Childs Memories Through Deeds Rather Than Wallow In Self Pity. Much Easier Said Than Done.
The Author Celeste N. Bowers Truly Deserves A Standing Ovation For The Path She Has So Bravely Chosen To Expose Her Personal Grief With When Your Voice Became Mine But What Makes Her Worthy Of Abundant Applause Is That She Actually Got To See The Bigger Picture Thanks To Her Lord And With Great Encouragement From Her Departed Daughter Christina Who Together Gave Her Strength To Pick Up The Pieces And Rebuild A Life That Was Bound To Make Her Daughter Proud As Never Did She Allow Herself Or The Family Think Of Christina In The Past Tense Because Her Invisible Presence Was As Still Very Intense Around Them.
The Grief & Sorrow Seeping Out Of Each Word Penned By Celeste N. Bowers Is Gut Wrenching No Doubt But Let Me Add In Haste That Inspite Of The Personal Loss This Book Is Actually About Hope & Encouragement. If Only They Can Find An Emotional Anchor That Not Only Calms Them After The Upheaval But Let’s Them See The Bigger Picture.

[Jan Caracter · Rating 5 out of 5]

God loaned this family a very special person in Christina.
Losing a child is a bitter pill to swallow for any parent, but they were blessed with a prelude of who Christina is, was, and would be.
Memories are medicine for the soul and when the subject of that memory has been called home, amazingly, the memory is that much sweeter. Not what we’re glad they’re gone, but that we’re glad we were trusted with their presence and their love for whatever the time frame.
I loved the poems. They were all answers to grieving. I can feel the pain in the poetry even through its beauty.
God does work in mysterious ways. Those doctors who stood with them were not a coincidence. Their purpose was strength, shared personally even as they were professional doctors. The family and Christina were so blessed to have so many God-fearing doctors. God put them and all of those other wonderful people in their path, even down to the compassionate hairdresser. Our amazing God. In turn, Christine and you (don’t forget yourself, mom) touched so many others in many different ways.
This story brought tears to my eyes. As Christina’s mom has a wonderfully clear voice, and why not – Christina has given her all of the oratory material she needs to reach out and touch others -- spread the word. We never know what another person needs – a smile, a touch, any kindness – whether they are rich or poor can be a turning point in their lives. Christina, the little pitcher was a people person.
A little pet therapy works wonders, they soothe a weary soul, no matter how they gain access to those so in need of love without judgment.
Christ really did work through Christina, but then I had no doubt. She was an awesome kid.

[Jennifer Sienes · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Your Voice Became Mine by Celeste N. Bowers weaves within it a concept that many Christians long to grasp—It’s not about me. It’s about Christ working through me. Simple, yet profoundly difficult to live out. However, a young Christina Bowers exemplified that concept in her short life—one that was taken before her eleventh birthday from cancer.

Christina’s mom, author Celeste N. Bowers, writes a poignant book to her daughter showcasing all the ways in which the child touched the lives of so many—even now, nearly fifteen years after her death. When I signed up to review this book, I expected to learn of Christina’s life and how it impacted her family. I did not expect to find beautiful gems of life lessons throughout that make me rethink my own Christian walk. It’s easy to say that we accept God’s will, that we trust His plan for our lives and that we can find joy even in the painful seasons of life. It’s quite another to actually do it.

This book will inspire you to rethink your faith. It will draw you into the desire to seek the face of God so you can walk this walk for His glory rather than your own. And it will remind you that even in our deepest grief, His plan and timing are perfect.

However, (there always has to be a however) I got a little lost in the repetition around the halfway mark. The book is broken into five “Packages” that highlight sequences in the life of Christina and how they impacted others. Concepts were repeated and the story could have been much tighter. Still, well worth the read.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book for reviewing purposes, but the opinions within are my own.

[Deana Dick · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a loving tribute to the author’s daughter who passed away at a tender age from cancer. I can’t say I enjoyed reading the book because the subject is to difficult for me. The author shares her daughter’s unwavering faith throughout her young life. The letters the author writes to her daughter are from the depths of pain and healing. I would love to have met Christina as she giggled and played with her friends. No one knew that one day this young girl would face a battle that was hard to watch, yet showed faith and witnessed to many.
Christina is an example of praising God through the storm. Her outlook on life was precious and even during chemo she was happy to sing and bring a smile to others. The book is filled with the many visitor’s that came to visit Christina while she was in the hospital. One of the things that really moved me was the way Christina was able to share her faith with others and make an impact on their lives. The pictures were nice to see of the family and how much Christina embraced life.
The author shares her own struggles as she watched her daughter go through heart wrenching treatments and restless nights. Throughout the book you can sense Christina smiling as her mother shares her story with the world. The book is a look at a young child full of life who had cancer and continues to have her story of faith and God’s love shared with others.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

My Thoughts on When Your Voice Became Mine:
Great book for anyone looking to read about how one small life can touch thousands. The author buried her daughter when she was only ten years old. This book tells some of her daughter’s story, but it also talks about how one young life could reach out and how it affected those around her.

We all want to think that we have a purpose here on Earth and that we’re impacting others. But when we do something we shouldn’t we like to comfort ourselves saying oh well, nobody saw that anyway. We can’t have it both ways.

This is a good read. As a mother, I was hit with the fact that this could be my story. God could have had this be my child. This definitely gave me lots of thoughts and even some tears.

I would classify this as a good book for anyone who is grieving. The concept is sound, the book is well written though there is some repetition. I’d say to read to enjoy not to critique. Read it as if you’re sitting and having a chat with this mom. Only think what you’d be willing to say to her.

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.

[Nyla Kay · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Your Voice Became Mine by author Celeste N. Bowers is a beautiful book written to help those who have suffered loss. Above all else, this is a God-glorifying book. It is inspiring, full of hope, trust, and love for our Lord.

I was moved to tears while reading this poignant book. The format is so nice and extremely personal. Everything has been well thought and planned. The book is written in letter form to Christina, the author’s daughter. There are five “Packages” that feature a part of Christina’s life. She was able to uplift and minister to others throughout her short life. Her one young life touched many people.

The author has included some pictures which make this book even more emotional. The messages of trusting in God, Heaven, faith, and love are strong. Every reader will find this book lingers long after it has been read. There is much to ponder.

This would make a nice selection for a reading group, especially for a grief therapy group. I would recommend this to anyone. It was definitely written with love. I rate it a 5 out of 5 stars. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but this is my honest opinion.

[Kathleen Quirk · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. Throughout the book it felt like I was sitting and listening to a conversation Celeste was having with her daughter. As a parent, I can’t fathom what it would be like to lose a child like that. What struck me was the unwavering, unshakeable faith of both Christina and her family, especially her mother. It is that faith that allows Christina to speak through Celeste. While such a devastating diagnosis and death can at times cause people to turn away from their faith it seemed to make this family’s faith stronger. People that become a part of their lives are all interconnected and the center, or the common union is Christ, or their faith. It is what keeps them connected and will always keep them connected.

In all honesty, I am in awe of how they were able to create such a positive state of being in such a heartbreaking situation. I’m not sure I could be as strong. This book definitely made me look deeper inside myself and think about my own relationship with Christ and others as well as how and why certain people have come into my life.

[Lucy · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a beautiful book of a mother’s love for her daughter and the legacy she left behind. The book reads as a letter to Christina in heaven and as an encouragement to anyone who has endured a loss. I find it fitting that this is the last book I have read this year, especially after my daddy going to heaven last month. I loved the pacing of the book and even though it deals with earthly loss that it makes your heart long for that heavenly reunion. We all have a choice in the legacy we leave behind and for myself I long to be more like Christina. This book should be in the hands of everyone as it holds the potential to make life changes between its pages. I recommend it as a great book to gift to friends and family. It may bring tears, but a Joy comes in the morning.
I received a complimentary copy through CelebrateLit. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.

[Charissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book uses Christina’s cancer diagnosis, through her good times and extremely bad times, to show the reader how God helped her get through it all. God blessed her with so much peace, joy, love, and happiness here on earth, as she endured all the pain and suffering.

Christina touched so many lives before and after cancer diagnosis. She spread peace, joy, love, and happiness to all she encountered. Jesus said the greatest of all these is love, and Christina definitely showed much love to all. She lived the life Jesus wants us to live.

Christina’s mom, Celeste, meets people in a variety of situations and at speeches she gives, talking about how Christina touched people’s lives. It is amazing how God brings people together, connecting and inspiring.

Throughout the book you will sense how God wants to help and bless you, no matter your situation.

[Yara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bowers’s heartfelt Christian epistolary work, When Your Voice Became Mine, celebrates the inspiring life of her daughter, Christina, 10, who lost her battle with cancer. It’s a mother’s uplifting tribute to her daughter that focuses on the humility, compassion, and faith her young daughter displayed on the onset and the lives she impacted.

Composed as a letter from mother to daughter, the writing style captures feelings of gratitude for the way Christina lived her life.

Maintaining a keen sense of compassion for others who have gone through similar circumstances, the author asserts that life will continue into eternity, and death is a temporary separation.

I read this book in one sitting and felt light-headed about my own upheavals.

[Jill Domina · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a beautiful tribute to the author's daughter, Christina, who passed away from cancer at the age of 10. The author shares her cherished memories of her daughter by writing heartfelt letters to her in heaven. There is also an underlying message that no matter what trials we face in life, we need to keep God at the center and remember what is really important.

Christina sounds like an amazing young lady who touched many lives. She helped many come to know the Lord until the day she died and now her mom is carrying on the message of hope. The only reason I give this book four stars instead of five is because some memories and parts of the book seemed repetitive at times.

[Feba Francis · Rating 5 out of 5]

How would you review a mother's love for her daughter? Whatever I write is an understatement. This book is not for reading but for feeling. Each sentence is an embodiment of Celeste's love for Christina. Anyone who has lost someone would relate to this.

The Christian values are what help Celeste to move on from the tragedy. The pillar of her support.

PS. Anyone who reads this, please don't read as a literary piece but as a beautiful testimony of a life lost so early.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book, it is so heart-filled. I loved reading about this 10 year child's life. I didn't like that she is another victim of cancer.

I love this quote that was Christina's motto through her life. "It's not about me. It’s about Christ working through me."
I really recommend this book to anyone needing comfort and courage.
I received a contemporary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit. These opinions are my own.

[Kathleen Van Lierop · Rating 5 out of 5]

Losing someone special always is very tragic, especially a child.
It's very brave from the author to write about her daughter, the
loss and her feelings.

The book and the story brought me a lot of thoughts and tears,
it certainly was written with love.

Perhaps it can be a support for anyone who had to deal with a
great loss.

It was written very clear and it read fluently. That's why I want
to give this book a 5 * rating.

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! I have read many books in my lifetime, but none affected me as deeply as this one! This is such a beautiful and poignant story about the difficult and life-changing journey of a precious and amazing girl and her family. I was so awed and amazed at the detail and flow of the entire book, as well as the level of maturity, beyond her years! What a wonderful example to us all! I definitely would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys nonfiction!

[Patti Pierce · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I saw the opportunity to review this book, I knew I wanted to read. But I had no idea of how profound an effect it would have on me. From the time I began reading until the time I reached the end of the book, tears filled my eyes. As the mother of four, I can not begin to fathom having a child pass into Heaven before me. Yet at the same time, if I knew my child could demonstrate the faith, courage, and compassion of Christina, I know God would provide the strength and the people to walk beside me during the darkest of days.

The number of people Christina, Teddy (her brother), and parents touched through her walk with cancer is incredible. From the time she was born until the time she crossed over into Jesus’ arms, Christina and her family served God and witnessed for HIm. I caution you not to read this book without having a box of kleenex nearby.

From family to classmates, to friends to hospital staff and more, Christina’s life and journey with cancer touched so many lives. Lives are still being touched today through books and through the lives she touched. Truly the quote Christina said of, “It’s not about me. It’s about Christ working through me.” speaks volumes. These words have the power to comfort, to empower, to give courage, and more. Truly this is a book with a message that needs to be read and then shared.

I can not recommend this book strongly enough.

I received a copy of this book for my fair and honest review.

[Marah · Rating 1 out of 5]

The book is about a girl who died by cancer. It was written with a lot of love and emotion by a great mother. It is not my type of book as it stuck with me such a long time according to my fast reading. I found it boring and repeatative. It has a spiritual christian massage. I think it could be written in a way that would make it more interesting. I can't deny that I cried while I was reading it. I struggled until I finished it because I don't like to surrender reading a book whatever boring it is.