Happily Ever After: Walking with Peace and Courage Through a Year of Divorce

I am a fan of Kristin Armstrong's articles in Runners World magazine, and I had seen her on Good Morning America promoting this book. Two days after being diagnosed with breast cancer, I bought this book since I had heard that it was a great book for anyone going through a difficult time. I've been reading a few pages of the book every day, and much of what is written can be used to get through any tough time -- it's not limited to divorce or a broken relationship. Kristin is a great inspiration since she went through a terrible time of trial and used the time to delve into her spirituality, and she refused to wallow in bitterness and regret. The book has shown me light on some dark days.

Kristin Armstrong's divorce from professional cyclist Lance Armstrong led her to write HAPPILY EVER AFTER: Walking with Peace and Courage Through a Year of Divorce, a personal 365-day devotional geared toward women (especially with children) whose marriages are dissolving. "I never imagined that divorce would be part of my life history or my family's legacy," writes Armstrong, mother of three, whose marriage to Lance lasted five years. "I have walked this path, from the trenches of despair, through pitfalls of anger, bottlenecks of blame, along the cliffs of loneliness and fear." As she navigated through her divorce, Armstrong kept a journal of the scriptures that were most encouraging to her. The result is this book, she writes in the introduction. The scriptures are a mixed bag, with such gems as the Isaiah 40:31 passage "Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength..." to more obscure ones like Amos 6:1: "Woe to you who are complacent in Zion." The book begins on Day 1 as Armstrong acknowledges the tough road ahead. "This year will be epic for you...Every day, many times a day, you will make decisions that determine the rest of your story...Eventually you will be surprised to find yourself healed, whole, and happily living your brand-new life." As the devotional continues, she addresses difficult issues such as the need for forgiveness, letting go of retaliation and gossip, and letting go of the worry over preserving your reputation. "To practice silence and discretion in these situations is wise," she advises. There is a welcome tone of quiet and resolve that permeates the pages. "The path of sour bitterness, crusty resentment, and cold regret breeds generations of despair. The path of righteousness grants generations of peace, quietness and confidence," she writes in an early devotion. Many readers longing for comfort and kindness will find them in Armstrong's words, as she reminds them in the persona of a close girlfriend: "Now is not the time to make sense of this mess.... Sweetheart, now is the time to trust in the Lord with all your heart." There is an occasional question mark. Armstrong says in one essay that she believes it is important to experience your pain fully rather than numbing it with "remedies" --- therapy, coping pills, exercise, massage. Does she believe these are wrong things to do? Or that they are not enough? A little more context here would be helpful, as it would in the devotional telling of the story of a couple who refused to accept their cancer diagnosis: "She and her husband, Bob, are both cancer free today." (What about those who are not healed?) Occasionally, there is some repetition, such as two devotionals centered on the word "betrothed" (Day 251 and Day 92). But overwhelmingly, Armstrong's soothing essays prompt women toward growth, resilience and an opportunity for reinvention while acknowledging their pain and need for God. Repeatedly, she affirms the reader and assures her of God's love:

This book is one I'd recommend for any life challenges, although it is geared towards divorce. I like the scripture at the start of each chapter/devotional. And Kristin Armstrong expains some of her own struggles and how she continues to overcome and focus on God to get through them, without bitterness or resentment... Inspiring and uplifting! A ray of hope. :)

Hits the spot! I am beginning to participate in a caregiving ministy at my church - and my sister sent me this book to use as a resource. After reading the intro and the first 5 pages - I could tell how wonderful it is. I immediately gave it away to a friend beginning the process of divorce - and then bought more copies - one for me and four more to give away! I wish she did public speaking!

I purchased this book for my daughter who is in the process of divorcing. When this book arrived in the mail, I was amazed at how nice it was "in person"! The book itself is delicate and very feminine in its appearance. It is presented in such a way that one can read for just a few minutes, or not stop reading if you have time...I could not put it down. I cannot wait to give it to my daughter, and I know that she will be strengthened and encouraged by the scriptures and advice. I recommend this book to any woman who is experiencing the heartbreak of divorce.