As I worked with my writing coach, he helped me to double check the "arc of the story" of Adopting Grace: A Parenting Journey from Fear to Freedom. I imagine that it is a challenge for all writers to see the bigger picture on their own projects. The coaching process and a set of more objective eyes led to one perfectly good chapter getting the heave ho.

Though Adopting Grace is primarily a parenting journey, it includes the undercurrent (or more accurately at times, overwhelming waves) of a faith shift. So much of my practice and perspective in this area has moved toward a more contemplative stance as I approach God and my fellow humans. And in my book's first draft, I included a chapter entitled "Becoming More Contemplative."

But after discussions and listening to the wisdom of someone who knows a good deal about book writing, I consented to cut it. I have pondered what to do with this material. I think it is decent and could be helpful to some. Along with embracing a more contemplative stance toward God and prayer, I also write about wrestling with the Bible. So much of a Christian's worldview comes down to how we make sense of this text.

If you would like to get a copy of the cut chapter, please just email me at adoptinggrace2017@gmail.com, and I will send it your way. Thank you for taking your time to read my blog. I look forward to meeting old and new friends in this space. I hope that you have many moments of adopting grace for yourself today. Becoming more contemplative has played a critical role as I journey on the path of adopting grace for myself, my family, and others.