Finding Spiritual Whitespace

Starred review from April 14, 2014
Gray, a popular blogger at Faith Barista, set out to fulfill her lifelong dream of writing a book. When she began, however, repressed memories resurfaced and the book turned into a reluctant account of her journey through unrecognized post-traumatic stress. The author relates the heartbreaking childhood experiences that led to severe panic attacks, insomnia, and fear. Helping her through her confrontation with her own past are a supportive husband, a good therapist, and white space—places in her life like the blank areas of an artist’s canvas—where she can rest and tend her soul. She offers intriguing insights into scripture and on how God views his flawed but beloved creations. At each chapter’s end, journaling prompts help readers identify areas where they need to create white space. More than just a memoir, this is an invitation to walk the difficult road to self-discovery and healing with a fellow traveler who understands. Learning how to identify stressors and eliminate emotional clutter will benefit anyone, not just those suffering from PTSD. Agent: Chip MacGregor, MacGregor Literary Agency.