Bøger udgivet af Xulon Press

Does the spiritual realm exist? Can someone open the door and allow evil in with one simple act? In the Case of Malena Merian, Malena is having trouble sleeping. She does a seemingly innocent shamanic ritual to cleanse her house and all hell breaks loose, literally. Plagued by horrific dreams, followed by an evil presence, and overpowered by voices, evil takes over her life. In a fog of confusion and manipulation, Malena is led to what will always be known as The Imminent Happening. Her life is changed forever, but not in the way you may think. This powerful book will explore the schemes of Satan and the power of God in a way that will open your eyes to just how real the spiritual realm is. You will be drawn into the battle Malena is fighting and rejoice with her when she finally finds freedom. Malena Merian is passionate about showing others the reality of the schemes of Satan and the power of God. She grew up in Switzerland and is of Eurotropican (European & Caribbean) background. Malena is a Christian and a member of the church of Christ (Matthew 16:18 / Romans 16:16). When not writing, Malena enjoys working in the vineyard of God, having fellowship with brethren from across the world, praying and travelling.

Why Read This Book? Are you overwhelmed by the noise and chaos that our world offers today? Are you desperate for a real solution of feeling inner peace that actually lasts? There is a strong gravitational pull of external forces that constantly push us in directions that are not always healthiest for our souls. We need greater balance to manage so many priorities and pressures that rob us daily of healthy energy and motivation. The Compass Club-Directing the Arrow toward Peace is a spiritually inspiring life guide that offers intentional strategies for peaceful living. It's a simple, easy to follow plan with a logical continuum of strategies directed to seven life quadrants that deliver hope, healing and happiness. The Compass Club community share the same faith values with courageous convictions that cannot be compromised in a world that does not offer peace. The chaos may persist, but as a member of this Compass Club you will be strengthened by Christ, the core of your soul and the center of all of your life intentions. Directing the Arrow toward Peace is a real plan for long lasting peace as Jesus intended when He said, "Peace I leave with you, My peace I give you." It's time to finally embrace His invitation and experience it fully in your mind, body and soul!

4 ways to Sunday is a play on words. Sunday is when most of us celebrate the Sabbath and the Sabbath Eans a day of rest. In this book I'm not talking about a day I am talking about a lifestyle. I'm talking about 4 distinct ways to find rest in God let it go, let him lead, build it right, and anchor your soul. Scripture states that when God fights our battles we rest and trust in him for the outcome. The scripture also says in Exodus 20:11 that God instituted a day of rest and he blessed it ...there is a blessing on the rest of God when we enter his rest we're entering into a blessed life. God never intended for us to do live by ourselves or should its responsibilities on our own. Jeremiah 6: 16-17 NLT stop at the cross roads and look around ask for the old godly way and walk in it and Travel it's path and you will find rest for your souls. - Dr. Bill More, excerpt from 4 Ways to Sunday Finding Rest in a Restless World Four ways to Sunday offers 17 chapters to help you discover and find rest for your soul. It will help you live less stressed and anxious and to be able to enjoy the life God has planned for you. A restless society Finding your Sabbath life Our part in peace Conquering the enemy of unrest Rest and provision Bloom where you're planted Anchor your soul The Lord our shepherd The challenge that follow victory Casting your cares

"The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit." Philippians 4:23 "We read Paul's writings because we recognize in his passion to know Jesus what should be our passion, too. We see in his love for the churches and his appeal for unity among Christians the kind of spirit we need also. His continuing call to holy living reminds us of the life we have been called to live and his determined defense of the gospel reminds us that there is truth that is eternal. Paul's proclamations of Christ's supremacy and his appeals to prepare ourselves for the Lord's return challenge us to set our hearts on things above. We read Paul because we believe he is telling us the truth about ourselves and our God. We read Paul because we believe him when he said, "This is what we speak, not in words taught us by human wisdom but in words taught by the Spirit, expressing spiritual truths in spiritual words" (1Corinthians 2:13). We read Paul because we believe the Lord chose to speak through this servant and that God is speaking to us through him." Dr. Mike W. Ireland A man with a prophet's heart, Dr. Mike W. Ireland has been preaching Jesus for over 50 years. His ministry has included overseas missions, seminars, radio and television. He was a professor for 20 years at Harding University where he taught the Scriptures to countless students and shared what it means to live in the grace of God. Although retired from university teaching, he continues to preach and write. He is the author of From Morning to Evening and The Gift of Ministry. He and his wife of 51 years, Deborah, reside in Searcy, Arkansas.

Y creó Dios al hombre a su imagen, a imagen de Dios los creó; varón y hembra los creó (Génesis 1:27). Que fácil sería definir la sexualidad de los seres humanos si todos creyéramos lo escrito en la Palabra de Dios, varón y hembra los creó (Génesis 1:26-27). Por muchos años luché por no sacar a luz pública los años que anduve buscando identidad en pecados y maldad; mas hoy decido testificar de la obra redentora de Dios en mi vida (Apocalipsis 12:11). Todos tenemos una historia, pero si nuestra historia no está conectada a la historia que Dios soñó para nosotros, buscaremos y no encontraremos hasta que nos rindamos a la buena voluntad de Dios, la cual es agradable y perfecta (Romanos 12:2.) Pido al Espíritu Santo de Dios, el cual ocupa todos los espacios del universo, ilumine tu entendimiento y veas a la mujer que anduvo buscando quién era por más de medio siglo hasta que un día tropezó con la roca llamada Jesús.

A profound novel about a young Jewish boy, Josiah, living in Israel thousands of years ago. As Josiah experiences life, love and incredible loss, he learns the importance of understanding the prophetic truth of the Hebrew scriptures, and the significance of the path that his Hebrew ancestors followed. This novel provides a beautiful and realistic perspective of Jewish culture through the eyes of Josiah and his family, who are shepherds in Bethlehem. Josiah's father teaches him about the mysterious and ancient prophecies concerning the Messiah of Israel. His father also teaches him about the seven, annual Jewish feasts, ordained by God himself, and the significance of these feasts. As a young boy, Josiah has dreams sent from God, just like many of his ancestors did, hundreds of years earlier. He is challenged to understand the meaning of these dreams. This story is powerful, inspiring and captivating, encouraging the reader to embrace the wonder of God's plan for humanity.

What better day in life is there than the last day of school before summer break? To Torian, it will be spent seeing his Nana Re-re in Kansas for the summer. However, he has a surprise in store this summer that will change his life in a new way in the latest book by author Marita Mister, Who's That Kid? Torian learns from his parents that they will not only be seeing Nana Re-re but moving to Kansas as well, as his dad's job requires him to relocate the family there. Though he will miss all the friends he had in Mrs. Waffles' class, he is excited to know that he will have a new house and the chance to have new friends. Author Marita Mister has worked with students for the past twenty-four years, witnessing several having the same experiences as Torian: moving away from friends, going to a new school, and maybe even moving in with family. So, she felt led to write a book that covers several of these experiences children go through dealing with "grown-up" changes as kids. Mirroring Torian after her own grandson, Marita wanted to show younger readers that even if they have to experience being the "new kid on the block," good things can come from it. As Torian was able to find the silver lining in his moving situation, children reading Who's that Kid? Can find the same for what they are going through as well.

It was a celebration to remember. A proclamation was sent out in the kingdom of Amira by Sovereign Apatmos for one and all in the kingdom to bring a gift to a celebration in honor of Elovah, the God of the Universe. However, it was the unexpected, simple gifts among the finest in the land that changed not only the minds but the hearts of those in the kingdom toward what it means to give of oneself. Author Daniel Smith provides readers with an engaging, heartfelt story about gratitude, faith, and selflessness through his children's fairy tale, The Most Special Gift. As all were grabbing up the best in the land as gifts for the celebration, many overlooked the two orphaned children who worked hard for what little they earned. Benny and Elvira wanted to also bring a gift to the celebration but between the two of them, not much was available. However, their decision to bring two gifts that meant the most to both of them would prove to be something that would change their lives, as well as the lives and mindsets of the kingdom, forever. Daniel began writing a story about the true meaning of giving gifts for a Christmas party years ago, but wasn't able to complete the story by the party. However, this seemed to entice his interest to write, creating three more fairy tales and a poem, all taking place in the magical land first set out in this story. He hopes that readers gain a stronger sense of the importance in giving gifts with no expectation for a return, which can help in sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ with someone.Just as Benny and Elvira hoped their gifts would please the Sovereign and Elovah, however meager the gifts might be, we can only hope what we present to God will mean something to Him and help others draw closer to Him.

In times of crisis, it's always healing to shore up the roots of your faith. This mindset is what guided author Daniel J. A. Smith to share Christ-centered reflections from the heart-reflections on faith, wisdom, and hope during one of the most tumultuous eras of our lifetime. Reflections during COVID-19: Devotions Written during the COVID-19 Pandemic is Smith's insightful collection of inspiring devotionals that will challenge you, uplift you, and encourage you with invaluable lessons learned from the season of life marked by the transformative changes of the year 2020. When Smith had to pause the church group he was leading due to COVID-19, he realized how such a time frequently leads to crises of faith. With this in mind, Smith took the responsibility to help guide his group however he could. Unable to meet in person, he was led to write a devotional based on his group's discussions, sharing life lessons for charting the unexpected obstacles, hardships, and moments of growth in their midst. Now sharing these devotionals with the world, Smith reveals powerful teaching that will inspire you to look at the tough times of life as opportunities for God to open your eyes to the truth of His Word. Discover ways in which you can grow more like Jesus no matter what turn your journey may take-even in a pandemic-as Smith's words leave a lasting impact on your heart, far after the end of COVID-19. As you embrace God's message revealed through these devotions, you will begin to heal and process what this pandemic taught you, with Smith's reflections equipping and strengthening you in your walk with Christ. Daniel J.A. Smith was born in Greensboro, North Carolina, and moved to Kansas City, Missouri when he was four. He still calls that city home. He graduated from Southwest Baptist University with a degree in History. He enjoys reading, especially fantasy, and loves listening to music, watching movies, and playing video games. Raised in the church all of his life, he has attended both liberal and conservative churches, making friends across denominational and political lines. As such, he sees the flaws of partisan fighting that hinder the church and ruin Christian fellowship. He hopes this book will be a voice of healing, and a reminder for Christians all over to put aside their petty differences and spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ with everyone in the world. For only then will we be able to remake this world in God's image, the way it should have been all along.

Only the hand of a crafted weaver could take the threads in such a wide array of colors and textures and know exactly how to place them in this tapestry we call life. The bright and brilliant colors are in perfect contrast to the dark and brooding one. The threads start and stop, colors and textures change at the discretion of the weaver who has given extravagant care as He laid out the plans for this life. Every detail was perfect before the weaving began. Eugenia was born to incredible Godly parents that spent their life loving each other and loving and serving all those that God brought into their paths. They taught her to do the same. Nothing could have prepared her for her journey of troubled relationships, broken marriages and heart wrenching pain. All the while God was weaving His cords of love and redemption through her life. Standing by her father's deathbed she whispered a promise to her father that she would take care of her mother. Eugenia had no idea what the cost would be to keep her promise. Alzheimer's complicated everything but she was committed to keeping that promise to the end. Tending her mother ignited a compassion and understanding of what caregivers face. God sent hospice angels and friendships that sustained her in the final days. Little did she realize the plan of healing and restoration that God had in mind at the beginning. Her promise to her mother in her final days has opened a new chapter for Eugenia. Where will God take her from here? Jeremiah 29:11 says, "For I know the plans I have for you", declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Yes, Jesus the master weaver, the greatest promise keeper has a plan. Watch as He weaves His truth and promises amidst the pain and brokenness, the joy and sorrow to fashion a tapestry of a life that brings Him great glory! As you read, may you discover the hand of the master weaver as He works out His extravagant plan in your life as well! Susan Hohenstein Shared Vision for Heart to Heart Ministry

Becoming a Christian is the best decision a person can make. Getting the courage to come to the cross, admit you are a sinner, and ask Jesus to be Lord over your life is the start of a new beginning. But what comes next? After receiving salvation, how does one actually "do" the Christian life? Author Ernestine Scovens knows that this can be confusing at first, and she has written a book full of guidance and support for readers. I Once Was Blind: A Book of Lessons for New Believers by Ernestine Scovens is an inspiring book composed of easily understandable lessons that help new believers develop a good foundation on which to build a strong relationship with God. After watching people come to church and give their lives to the Lord only to attend a few services and never return, Ernestine realized that something was missing in the support being provided to recent Christians. Often because of a lack of understanding of the decision they had made, many would end up abandoning their efforts to develop a personal relationship with Christ. Inspired by the Holy Spirit, Ernestine created a resource to help new believers embrace the changes occurring in their spirit and walk in their newfound faith. Including review sections with scriptures and questions for readers to complete as well as enrichment sections which focus on different foundational spiritual principles, I Once Was Blind: A Book of Lessons for New Believers answers questions that readers are bound to have and walks with them as they embark on their faith journey. Ernestine Scovens, native of Baltimore, Maryland, was born on August 10, 1959 and 'born again' some 25 years later. At the age of 34 she suffered a crippling accident causing the loss of her mother and a loss of her faith in God. After 25 years she found her way back to God, and was delivered from alcoholism and divers other infirmities of the flesh. Since rededicating her life to Christ on January 19, 2010 Ernestine has strived to become rooted and grounded in her faith. Her time now centers around studying God's Word, ministering to those in need, and teaching the Word of God whenever possible. Her commitment to helping new believers build a strong foundation in Christ was the inspiration for her first book, I Once Was Blind.

Socially Distant, Spiritually Close is a perpetual Advent devotional which invites its readers to anticipate Christ's coming each Christmas. The 2020 global pandemic introduced the practice of social distancing and impacted many things, including how we celebrated Christmas. Well into 2021 we are still dealing with the virus, vaccinations, and a variant which requires pockets of social distancing. Even though the GIVING, the GATHERING, and the GAIETY of celebrating Christmas may still require some social distancing indefinitely, GOD WITH US has made it possible to remain spiritually close to each other and to our heavenly Father. Socially Distant, Spiritually Close! Sheryl Vasso Dr. Sheryl A. Vasso is a full professor and chair in the Master of Science in Education program at Cairn University where she has been teaching and administrating since 1990. In addition to teaching, Sheryl is Founder and President of Words of Worth, Inc., a non-profit incorporation that provides Biblical teaching for retreats and conference settings as well as professional development for educators, both nationally and abroad. Sheryl has co-authored several Bible studies and more about her ministry can be found at www.wordsofworth.com. Susan Weber Susan Weber is a retired educator who fills her days with travel and service on several boards for local community non-profits, including Words of Worth, Inc. She is also active in her church co-teaching a Bible Study. Susan and her husband Jim have a great regard for missions and have traveled to four continents on missions' trips. Her greatest blessing is her family. Susan and Jim are the parents of two sons, and grandparents of six beautiful grandchildren. Susan's hope is to serve the Lord fully during her retirement years.

MISTER GOOD FELLOW MEETS THE PRINCE is a fictional story about a young man who cannot figure out why he is experiencing difficult things, after all he is a good fellow. He figures he deserves only good experiences, especially from the Prince of Peace. The second portion of the book (REASONS TO BELIEVE) is a rational examination of facts that can lead a person to believe in God (THE PRINCE OF PEACE). It begins with reasons to believe in creation and concludes with our final destination, heaven or hell. I grew up in a family of five. This included three sisters Charlene, Denise, and Glenna. I experienced a relatively happy childhood with parents who were Christians. As I entered adolescence I began to question the reasons for belief in the Bible and the gospel message. I realized that faith needed to become personal, and I could not just rely upon the faith of my parents.This journey of faith produced some very difficult times of crisis, and times of the joy of discovery that strengthened my faith. In hope of helping others who are facing similar questions and difficulties in their faith journey, is part of the reason I wrote this book. It also helped to clarify and solidify my own faith. My beautiful and loving wife Julie has been a wonderful and encouraging part of this journey for 39 years.

At a young age Sharon Stoops was diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy. In the midst of incredible physical challenges that she knew would one day claim her life, Sharon displayed a rare individualism, an inspiring unshakeable faith, and a one-of-a-kind personality. Her vibrancy and determination touched many lives, but it was especially enhanced by her relationship with friend and caregiver, Jeanne Ott. Together by divine orchestration, their unique relationship drove others to watch in awe as Sharon repeatedly defied medical predictions. When Sharon did finally succumb to her condition, Jeanne's journey is transparently shared as she dealt with grief and redefinition of her purpose. This book gives us a glimpse of how God moves triumphantly and personally when hearts are fully yielded to His sovereign design. CHERYL ENGLE was raised in a strong Christian home in Albion, Michigan and became a Christian at an early age. She has a college degree in English and Music and taught at the high school level for many years. She was the Music Director at three different churches, was the President of a non-profit Christian organization, held several leadership positions in Community Bible Study, and was an inspirational speaker, making numerous radio and television appearances. She continues to write and teach Bible studies. She is married and has three children and ten grandchildren. JEANNE OTT became a Christian at an early age and was raised in a loving Christian home. Earning a BA in music and an MA in Christian Education, she served as a Director of Christian Education. She was also a member of various choirs, praise teams, and was a soloist. She was a teacher and counselor in a private Christian school prior to studying accounting. Becoming an accountant and tax specialist while also teaching college accounting, she started a private practice of accounting and tax preparation. She resides in Howell, Michigan and spends the winter in Davenport, Florida where she co-leads GriefShare.

In the early 1800s many people were moving out of New York City, Philadelphia, and Boston and heading west in search of land and jobs. Many settled in Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky, and Michigan. The McCutchens were no different. When they settled in Michigan, they find a new home and some new friends who are Indians. Problems arise while settling in and with help from locals the problems were solved, and friends were made. Kids went to school and mom became the bread winner and a bread maker and dad made bricks. Daisy enters their life and things change. J. Clayton Albaugh is a retired machinist, former fighter and policeman. He graduated from Grand Ledge high school and is a woodworker and has made many pieces of furniture. He lives with his wife of 58 years in Mulliken. They had two daughters who are grown and live in Michigan. His second book about Grand Ledge covers the settlement of the village in the 1800's. It follows a family from Pennsylvania to the Michigan Territory and the journey they took heading west. They encountered Indians that were earlier settlers in the area and made friends with a few. They found that the area was rich in clay and coal and used these to create a legacy all their own. Struggles sometimes create tragedy as did this family. An Indian showed them how to hunt and to care for their animals. Grand Ledge got its stirrings from many individuals and groups. That is why Grand Ledge is the great little town in Michigan and is a scenic wonder that many visit to see the 'Big Rocks'. "I always have a good day, - - - it is just that - - - some days are better than others"

A historical fiction novel, Marie of Aragon takes place in the year 1465: A young girl's incredible adventurous journey on a spiritual quest through France, accompanied by her adoptive mother Nina, a distant relative and her adoptive Moorish brother Bazzu, acting as their protector. The story unfolds through the beautiful countryside, of the high mountains, prairies, villages, beautiful cities and churches. They meet and make many friends, among them the wise King, and encounter treacherous enemies, where their values, of love for truth, faithfulness and veneration to God and the Saints of the times, delivered a glorious victory every time. This is an amazing story full of love, charity and compassion but it also shows the ugly side of human nature, perverse cruelty and evil thinking, feeling and actions. A true must for the young in heart. "The passionate writing of this novel moved my spirits in ways that I felt that I was there. The powerful battles that happened throughout the story, not only physically but emotionally, made me love this book. I was overwhelmed in feelings that this book, Marie of Aragon, gave me." Isabella Gordillo. "I think this novel is a delightful contribution to literature for young adults. It tells a good story, has some good swashbuckling adventure, and is inspirational. Janet Beckwith Stewart.

Hope. This one word can make your whole life incredibly exhilarating and passionate, or the lack of it can wear you down to questioning why you're even here. Why do some people have it and others long for it? Hope Always Wins will inspire and challenge you to believe in God's great plan for you, starting exactly where you are. Everything you've been through will work in your favor. Hold on tight, hold on to God, and trust His plan. I'm thankful for breathtaking, awesomely-wonderful moments and I'm thankful for moments of deep sorrow, because God uses them all. Miscarrying my first baby, divorcing after 20 years, going through a house fire, navigating incredibly scary career changes, losing my amazing father, and facing that surprise battle with breast cancer, God was there. Every step of the way, He was there - and He is with you, too. Life is about to get exciting. Hope Always Wins provides practical steps to believe in your next-level life. Your current journey is a setup for where you are going. The next 15 days will get you back on course with the strength and confidence to accomplish your God-given vision. Here's to your new adventure. You've heard it said, "This is the first day of the rest of your life." The Bible refers to "new beginnings," "a new day" and the "mercies of the Lord are new every morning." Today is your day! "May the God of hope, fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope." (Rom 15:13) We have a God-given mission to fulfill. I'm in this with you, cheering for you, and believing God for miracles waiting on the other side of your heart to hope again. Marla Lucas is a Christian radio personality, Executive Director for Dream Network, and author. Her hobbies include writing, fishing, Jeeping, lattes with friends and everything family! Her favorite pastimes are laughing, traveling and lake-time. She grew up in Oklahoma, then came to Missouri to attend college and never left. Her two grown sons, Stephen and Christian, live nearby and are her greatest joy. Her love for God and passion to inspire hope is the driving force behind her unstoppable zeal for life. You can contact Marla on her website: marlalucas.com.

Anna Zigfield, a princess by birth, had learned about her royal heritage at a young age. However, she had not known her ancestor King Johann, who had made her the heir to the hidden crown jewels responsible for the monarchy's downfall in 1803. Anna wrestled with the haunting question of how the king had known her centuries before she was born. It was not until Anna discovered the prophetic abilities that she found the answer to her question. As if her circumstances were not challenging enough, Anna learns that she would have to play in a treasure hunt created by the king to find the jewelry before claiming them as her own. By accepting her destiny, Anna becomes the target of a Shiite commander and the recipient of the love and loyalty of a handsome lawyer, Heinrick. Anna's journey leads her closer to God and teaches her that God had never left her and Heinrick's side. On the contrary, he was with them, each miracle at a time. Armine and her husband of thirty-seven years, Hrayr, enjoy their three adult children, nine grandchildren, and Schnauzer, Oliver. Armine was raised in Iran until the Iranian revolution when she moved to Austria. It was not until Armine moved to Massachusetts in her senior year of high school that she met her husband and set her roots in America. Today Armine enjoys sharing her passion for the word of God in her women's life group and working hand to hand with the leaders of her women's ministry in her home church in Modesto, California.

Wisdom Betrayed is a compelling novel which delves behind the scenes into the backstories of the characters at the center of the David and Bathsheba saga. Utilizing biblical accounts and weaving them throughout the narrative, the author expands upon Scripture to get into the hearts and minds of David, Bathsheba and other important characters in the complete story. Despite the popularity of the saga, most people do not realize there is a fascinating mystery in this story, a mystery that we must solve before we can see the full picture of what happened and why. The clues are there in obscure passages, waiting to be discovered and interpreted. The book takes readers along for a ride through turbulent events that unfold in this intersection of lives as a result of one man's decisions; events that end in tragedy for some and redemption for others. Here's a hint: David knew Bathsheba's family before he summoned her to his bed. Her grandfather was David's personal counselor and advisor. His name? Ahithophel the Gilonite. The man behind the throne. If you are ready to experience this classic story as never before, this book is for you. Head back in history to see what happens when wisdom is betrayed. Author Don Clifford has led adult Bible studies for over 50 years, many of them team teaching with his wife, Karen. The couple also teamed up in writing about their experiences as life-long Christians whose marriage and faith survived the loss of three of their living children. Don authored Grace Enough for Three, a story of losing three children but finding God's all-sufficient grace. The couple co-authored Heavenly Grief, a guide to spiritual and emotional healing. Their two living daughters have blessed them with six grandchildren and nine great grandchildren. Karen died of Parkinson's Disease in 2020. Don had a rewarding career as a physicist and aerospace engineer. After retirement, Don and Karen traveled extensively, leading several mission tours in Europe and South America. Don is president of Agape Communications, owner and operator of Christian radio station KSGL in Wichita, Kansas. Don has served on the Executive Board of the Missouri Baptist Convention. He now lives is Missouri and leads Bible studies at the First Baptist Church of St. Charles. He would be happy to hear from readers of Wisdom Betrayed.

Pastor Pfarrer migrated from Germany expecting an assignment to an urban church in New York. With no current openings, the Bishop assigned him to serve in Mountain Gap, a small coal mining community, located in this remote village in Virginia. He had not been there long, when there was an explosion in the mine. Grace and Jonathon Lovelace owned a boarding house in Mountain Gap, where most of the miners stayed, when they had to be away from home. It became their home away from home. The Lovelaces had no children, so their boarders became their family. The explosion in the mine united the community in many ways. The Chapel became the Community meeting place, where thy shared news, good or bad. When the Chapel bell rang, residents hurried to the Chapel, hoping for the best and fearing the worst. Whatever the news, Pastor Pfarrer was their rock. They all knew they could depend on him, even in stressful, trying situations. Alberta Arquilla Sabin was born on a farm in Manistee county, Michigan. She graduated with a class of twelve in 1946 from Dickson Rural Agricultural School in Brethren. Having been awarded a four-year scholarship to Central Michigan College of Education, Alberta graduated with a B.S. degree with a major in Home Economics and minors in Chemistry and Physics. At 10:00 a.m. on June 10, 1950 she was awarded her diploma on Central's football field. At 4:00 p.m. she became Mrs. Harold Sabin at the Mt. Pleasant Methodist Church. They enjoyed 44 1/2 years of marriage, until Harold's passing in 1996.

This compilation of prose and poetry illuminates my effort to survive in an uncertain and often violent environment. Each poem tells its own story and stands on its own merit. The reader can follow my path to establish a meaning to my suffering and a legitimate right to earn my place in society. You will be a witness to horrific pain, mental anguish, profound fear, degradation and shame. You will observe my internal conflicts and my process of introspection as I struggle to gain an understanding of my personal beliefs and begin to develop moral courage. Whether you have lived a similar existence, have a loved one who has, or work in a profession of helping others, there are lessons to be learned within. These poems translate the pain of a harsh reality into separate concrete building blocks for a strong foundation. My ultimate goal is inspiring others through my words and experience of overcoming adversity with dignity and courage. This book is my attempt to make a difference. My hope is that I have succeeded.