A Good Night's Peace

This is the true story of two women and how the hoplessness and despair of one became the inspiration behind the spiritual transformation of the other who found her. Bound by providence, they journeyed together, lives clashing in opposition along the way--hopeless one minute, humorous the next. Maggie, a successful business woman, deeply desirous of a less stressful more contemplative spititual life, unknowingly responds to God's calling and, Gladys, a pitiful and destitute old woman insular and stubborn to change because of life's horrid experiences, physical pain and naivete discovers a hidden longing, and both are forever changed.

The story encourages us to take a step back from ourselves in order to see things unseen and hear things unheard, and it becomes clear, through prayer and openness to the Spirit, that the Spirit is present and working in the world. In tandem, the author leaves us with a heightened awareness of the natural beauty of the earth and patterns of life, representing constant and gifted reminders of God's dependable and enduring love. It is faith-building and reassuring when, at every turn, we see the Spirit's abiding perfect work and realize there is no such thing as coincidence. In reality, it is the consistent kindheartedness of people that is the true representation of the most repetitive pattern that exists in nature: the image and likeness of God that abides in mankind and binds us together.

In a world needy for love and compassion, patience and understanding, we must look and listen for God not only in others, but also in ourselves. He defines our purpose and makes it known to us whether or not we initially understand it, realizing it is not always ours to understand, but to respond in all ways loving, toward all things and all people. It serves us well always to remember that we are used and transformed by God for His purpose and prayer is where we begin.