Westheights Church Library review of the book “Choosing To See” by author Mary Beth Chapman, wife of singer/songwriter Steven Curtis Chapman. Reviewed by Amy Terpstra.
Mary Beth Chapman, wife of singer/songwriter Steven Curtis Chapman, shares in her book ‘Choosing to See’ her journey with God through the ups and downs of life; most recently the loss of their young daughter through a tragic accident on May 21, 2008.
In the beginning of her book, she shares how all she longed for was a life that was calm, stable and in control (mainly her control). God however had other plans. Being married to someone who is famous and doesn’t really live a ‘normal life’ was her first clue that things were not likely to go how she planned. Mary Beth speaks openly about the challenges she has faced through the many unexpected things that have happened in her life; living with depression, the adoption of three orphans from China and later on the death of one of those girls through a car accident at their home involving their son.
The majority of the book covers a mother’s perspective on what occurred the day of the accident, the death of their daughter and then how they struggled to let God piece their lives back together as they grieved. Not only this, but how they saw God’s hand at work amongst the tragedy they were facing. They were doing their best to trust God to bring something good out of this horrible situation. She is open and honest about the good days and the angry days she had as she processed this with God and tried to help her family to grieve as well.
One of the things that really made me think was in the first few pages. Mary Beth dedicates the book to her son Will who accidentally ran over Maria. She says to Will – “You have been entrusted with an incredible pain. I am so sorry. I wish as your mom that I could take it away, but I know that God has a plan for you to steward this story well and to minister to others through your suffering. You are my hero, as well as Maria’s…she loved you so much, as do I!”
Even though I have not experienced the loss of a child, I could relate to much of the grieving process Mary Beth speaks of in other areas of my life…when things in life do not go as planned or even fathomed!
To see and hear Mary Beth Chapman talk about her book, click below.
I read this book also, at Amy’s recommendation, and it’s a truly inspiring and moving story. Mary Beth is honest with her struggles, and the whole family is remarkable even in the midst of such a tragedy. If you’re going through any level of grief (loss of a loved one, a dream, a job, etc.), this is an encouraging book to read. I can’t speak highly enough about this book!