Sunday, January 17, 2010

Strange....


"Leaving behind nights of terror and fear....I rise." Maya Angelou
 
My books have been selling...sold four yesterday...two more today. Sold almost 100 copies since it was released last month. And they're getting into bookstores. Four stores are carrying them now. 

It feels strange...strange to read people's comments...to know they're talking about me... Many have emailed...telling me what they think of the book....what they think of me....They're saying what no one ever said. You went through so much. Too much. This is amazing. You survived!  

At first their words shocked me. I had always thought it was normal, no big deal....not that bad. Maybe because I went through it alone...maybe because I never told anyone. No one ever knew. I didn't want anyone to know. I thought what happened was my fault. I thought I was bad, wrong, different...I thought I caused those things to happen in some weird way.

The words of kindness and affirmation that it was bad...are taking away that need in me to fight...to be on guard. I can feel something in me relaxing...softening...I don't want to fight anymore.

And something else - people are saying, If you can do it...I can too. My book is doing what I wanted. It's giving hope. It's pumping people to reach for their own freedom. That humbles me. I think He knew. He knew I would tell. He knew I would stand up. He knew I would give back. I feel scared and excited at the same time. I listen to Maya Angelou over and over...Her words 'and still I rise' empowering me...helping me know - I am becoming strong!

He is the core of my story. He is the One who broke chains when nothing else worked....I don't know how He did it....but He did. And if I can help just one person find freedom....find their way out of the darkness...than maybe everything I went through was all worth it.

20 comments:

Anonymous :) said...

I love your words..'broke chains when nothing else worked'. I can't think of anything as powerful as the power of God. Bless you, Sarah.

A Mother Always said...

It's good to always hear that Hope is being spread. I have hope but I need his saving grace. God Bless you.

BM

One Prayer Girl said...

I am so excited for you. You have done what I dream of. You have published a book. I have yet to write one. God is blessing you and your efforts. You give me hope.

Love,
PG

Kristen Torres-Toro said...

I'm so glad there's been a positive response, Sarah! That's awesome! So happy for you!

Andrea said...

Can I just say a great big GODLY: I told you so! HE is always faithful!
Blessings, andrea

Unknown said...

Girl, I am so proud of you!!! You have spoken up and others are beginning to speak out because you refused to be silenced!

Hugs!!

Susan said...

It's exciting to read that your book is selling well.
You are so much more than a survivor. You've gone beyond just surviving to giving back and thriving. Yours is a beautiful soul. It is no surprise that others are and will be inspired by that beauty.

Just Be Real said...

Dearest one, I am so very happy for you! You are sharing exactly what God wants you to. You are in His will dear one! Blessings.

Paula said...

How very great to get such responses which help even further. You helped me since I met you first and I am so grateful you see how far you have come. How much you have achieved. How much you are transformed. You are this incredible loving and loveable person because of what you went through and what you made out of it.

Anonymous said...

Sarah,
It is so great to hear that God is using your book and life in such a mighty way.....
I am so happy to hear that you are relaxing more.
I can't wait to see how God uses you in this new year.
Blessings,
Tammy

RCUBEs said...

I gotta get my copy!!!Been busy... I will :) And I'm glad that your story is used for His glory! Our feelings of worthlessness, He always turns into something so valuable, even priceless! Blessings to you sister.

Deborah Ann said...

Oh, your book will go many places, and reach many who are desperate to know the love of God. I praise God for you!

Grace said...

I think it's wonderful that you are reaching other survivors and giving them hope.
I am one of those survivors you have touched.

Margie said...

How wonderful that through your book you are helping others!

Every time I come here and read a post of yours I am in awe of you, Sarah!

May your life always be blessed!
God bless you!

Denise said...

I am so very happy for you sweetie. I knew your book would greatly bless others.

VICKI IN AZ said...

Sarah, It has been far too long since I have visited with you! I am so inspired here. You are a shining light set on a hill. I adore my connection with you, I thank God for you. I want to buy your book and I am just so anxious to read your words, I will as soon as I have the cash. I am so happy to hear that it is selling. You are an amazing woman.

xoxo

Lily said...

I am so happy that this is happening for you, and for everyone else around you. Your courage is going to give someone else hope. It is the best "pay it forward" that there can be, in my opinion. Bless you for your strength!

Carrie Cooper said...

Carrie @ comfortedbyGod.blogspot.com

Everytime I read your posts I am truly amazed (not surprised) at all the wonderful things God is accomplishing in your life! Isn't it wonderful to know you're doing EXACTLY what God has called you to do and that your entire life has led up to this exact calling? Great job!

S. Etole said...

Words always fail me when I visit here ... I am glad you are healing

Peter Stone said...

This is so wonderful, seeing not only others reaction to your testimony, but seeing the softening, healing touch of God in your life through their comments. Love your last paragraph, I said the same thing about sharing my depression testimony.