There is a moment in each widow or widower’s life where a decision must be made. The choice is whether to trade her/his unexpected sorrows for the life of the past or embrace the future. Yes, Lord! This book offers multiple perspectives on widowhood. It is a collaborative effort that began with a small group of young widows that met for fellowship and encouragement over Thursday lunches. Our conversations ranged from how to cope with our grief to dealing with our own realities as single parents and unexpected widows. Jerry began to keep a journal, which lead her and Vickie to writing devotionals from a widow’s perspective. This project expanded as awareness arose of other widow and widowers who were open to sharing their stories of going through the mourning process. Healing began when we traded our stories with each other and found the joy of the Lord.
Journals can help us remember the details of moments that framed our lives, and sometimes to help others with theirs. Jerry Woodbridge opens her life’s pages and affords us an articulate glimpse of hope for whatever comes our way.
Jerry Pattengale, Executive Director of National Conversations, Assistant Provost, IWU
An inspiring memoir of a widow’s journey through grief and how her strong christian faith guided her to find peace and strength in her sorrow.
JoAnne Funch, Heartache To Healing
Life can make us bitter or better. The writers of Trading My Sorrows have exchanged their grief for the Savior’s grace. In these pages, you too will find hope and help. Romans 8:28 is fleshed out in the lives of these fellow travelers and strugglers. Be encouraged to join them on the road to healing and a better life of usefulness.
Chaplain John Wrightsman, Indiana Wesleyan University
As a young widow myself, I am so excited about this book, especially as it affirms that we have a choice to continue dwelling in the pain or turning toward healing and living again. What Jerry has done with this book is refreshing and inspiring, offering hope to fellow widows as they experience their own journey from pain to renewal of living with loss and beyond.
Michelle E. Vasquez, MS, LPC True Love Relationship Coaching
