GOD GAVE ME YOU:
A true story of love, loss, and a heaven-sent
miracle
By Tricia Seaman
Authentic Media Limited. 240 pages. £9.99
ISBN 978 1 780 784 540
Wow! What a read! Although you’ll have emptied Tesco of Kleenex by the time you get to the end.
This book tells the story of the first time the writer, Tricia Seaman, a nurse, meets Trish Somers in a hospital room and the repercussions of the first conversation between them. Following a diagnosis of terminal cancer, Trish asks Tricia to look after her son, Wesley, once she dies. Trish and Wesley go to live with Tricia and her family leading up to her death and we’re given a deep insight into a journey of grief. We’re given a window on two families becoming one and on the challenges and joys that brought.
Powerful lessons
The book is incredibly easy to read. There are 27 short chapters. There are photographs too, some of which are particularly poignant. It is refreshingly honest.
There are powerful lessons about sacrifice, service, open-hearted love, repentance and forgiveness. I was challenged by the example of a family’s openness, love and willingness to share life. There’s no room for hypocrisy when someone is actually living with you; they’ll know whether you live up to the words you say. One real encouragement was the way the church supported Tricia in welcoming Trish and Wesley into her family. They weren’t left to struggle alone; it was a church affair.
The book is written in an American context, so the odd detail may sit awkwardly with some UK readers. At the end of the book I was left wondering how things are now and would like a sequel in a few years’ time! I would strongly recommend this book. In fact, reading it may even cause you to question your own priorities in life.
