A NEW KIND OF NORMAL

A while back I blogged about my failed attempt to read anything significant. When we were away in June, I made another attempt. I thought that this would be a better setting and that I would have more time. Well, I started a book (a novel), but I just couldn't get into it. I really tried, but it was such a struggle. I think it was the book, not me - or so I'd like to think. Maybe I'll try something else... Right now, I seem to be doing better with other books. I have read several parenting books, books about raising boys...and teenagers, and adoption. I guess it's my life and I have a vested interest. One of the books is entitled A New Kind of Normal. It is about a woman's journey as she has adjusted to an unplanned, monumental change in her life. In a nutshell, in a fit of rage, her (only) son murdered a man. This was completely out of character for this capable young man and he will most likely spend the rest of his life in prison. It has upset their sense of "normal" dramatically! I can only imagine the pain and heartache of this family. Here is a quote from the book that I found very helpful.

"Embracing your new kind of normal is the most empowering choice you will ever make. It transcends common sense. It is resistant to old patterns. It is sticky, uncomfortable, agitating, and difficult. But it is liberating and life giving and spirit enriching. It changes your life and the lives of everyone who joins you on your journey. And then, quite unexpectedly, you realize you are splashing hope into the lives of others because you have an intimate love relationship with the Source of hope."

I often think about the "new normal" in my life...in the life of my family. It is not because of tragic circumstances that we have experienced change. It was a choice. As wonderful as adoption is, it is hard. Very hard. Family dynamics change. Relationships change. The focus of your attention changes. It has been a lot to absorb...for all of us. But we keep moving forward day by day and try to do our best to blend into our new family. This quote was a good reminder that this journey is not just about ME and how challenging it is for ME. It's about giving and about others and about the future. I'm glad I read this book! I'm kind of proud of the fact that I made it all the way through!! :)