Treasures of Darkness

The book "Treasures of Darkness" is a small book, not one that is meant to be read in a weekend and added to the pile of 'self-help' books on your shelf. It began as a class that I taught in my church Women's Ministry as a result of dealing with addiction within my own family, and the resulting education we received. It was as if the lights were suddenly turned on regarding my own history, leading to an understanding of why life, even as a committed Christian, wasn't working for me and my family if we were honest. I was convinced that there were others like me within my own church, who came from a similar background and yet were not aware of how the past was influencing the present for them. Thus began the class that I taught for three years in that community. After many years, and with more experience, that became the book that I pray will continue to touch the lives of those who are in need of the kind of enlightenment that leads to freedom. Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and through the great courage that it takes to open what can seem like "Pandoras Box", it is simply, in God's loving care, a path to authentic Christian living. There are three basic parts to the book. The Introduction and initial chapters are about my story; this is followed by chapters related to understanding the dynamics of the family systems where addiction and other forms of dysfunction are operating. This is the 'teaching' segment, followed by Part 2, which is an invitation to "Abide in the Vine", bringing the practice of prayer and stillness, together with Scripture, readings and journaling, designed to enable the Word of God and His presence to bring comfort and guidance on the journey. This book is about the journey we are to be on as Christians, toward Theosis, a word in Greek that means "becoming by Grace what God is by Nature". May you find the Peace that passes understanding as you embark on this journey. I will be with you in spirit and in prayer.