The Line in the Sand - Review #2 - Nancy Beck
This review was submitted by Ms. Nancy Beck (12/12/2005). When I was home for my father's memorial service, I gave Nancy an unfinished copy of The Line In The Sand, and asked her if she would write some thoughts about the book. She is an amazing lady who sees life through the eyes of someone who has walked through hardship, abuse, abandonment, bad choices, and the lot of it all. Yet, she has kept her heart in the right place, and has modeled the true line in the sand throughout her life. As I made the call on that fateful day of my own understanding of how badly I messed things up, she was there to "love me as I am." I am blessed beyond comprehension that she was there then, and is there now. I love you mom. I thank you with all that I am...
"I'm very proud of you for knowing that you could talk to me when things looked so bleak to you. I've always been here, it just took a long time for you to see and understand that. Love, Mom"
Where is your line in the sand?
The line in the sand can have several meanings. The first that comes to mind is, I dare you to step over - I'm ready for a fight." Another might be, "I hope you don't cross that line, but I'll try to handle you the best that I can." Yet again, maybe it's, "I'll try to act so tough that you'll be too afraid to take that step." And yet, one more, "Please don't step across, because I'll be safe if you stay on your side."
How many children or adults have used the last thought? Probably more than would choose to admit those feelings. The writer has opted to reveal his feelings on his side of the line. He has also had a huge need to do so. His journey has brought him across that line and now he is in the light that shines on the other side. And it gets brighter every day.
The writer is my son. I was a participant in part and absent from the greater part of his journey.
How have my feelings, words, actions and decisions contributed to his need to draw "The Line in the Sand?" Reading his words and discussing the feelings behind them has been a journey we have shared.
Maybe you also have a line that needs to be crossed. The words in this book can be a guide to finding a way to cross the line into understanding and into the light.
The path will very likely be different for each one who takes the first step on the journey. And, "You must tell." That is the most important step because it proves to yourself that you want help. A journey of this depth cannot be completed alone.
Writing out your thoughts and feelings is another way to begin to heal. What you actually write down may be a shock! Possibly you will find more and deeper feelings of which you were not aware. Always write honestly and from your heart.
The other way to begin understanding things for yourself is to speak to a trusted counselor or a loved one. Reactions may not be what you want or expect, but your revelations may have hurt them as well. It is a process made with good counseling and love from those who really love you.
You may not need to use the Grand Canyon as a measure of good and bad, but start somewhere. Possibly a 50 gallon barrel will do. And spelunking may be deeper than you need, but again, start somewhere. A dark closet or a single dark cave could hold your darkness.
This book will make you aware of dark places buried in every soul. Bring them forth and examine each feeling honestly. As you begin to understand your feelings and fears - the light will be faint. But it will be brighter as you travel the path to peace and understanding!
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