Chasing Grace
by
Book Cover & Preview Text
Excerpt # 1 --
But the creatures stood watch
The starfish held firm
Stuck down below
Chase might as well learn
So he spent many days
And the months passed, too
And after a while
His perspective was new
He learned to slow down
To live in the depths
To cherish his life
With every breath
He learned to help others
These creatures he loved
To hug them each day
Not to fight or shove
He learned how they danced
With sweet, graceful steps
And with sweeping motions
He tried his best
He learned to be whole
To see himself in the mirror
A very special boy
So sacred, so much clearer
Excerpt # 2 --
The starfish just smiled
And motioned to the boy
Come sit, let us talk
You are finally ready for joy
Grace was here the whole time
And on the shore, too
She lives in the world
To help us – and you, too!
She lives in your heart
She has all along
But you had to come here
To learn her song
So when you find yourself again
Running for escape
Remember what we taught you
Put down your hate
You are a magical boy
With a magical heart
Grace is there with you
And today you will start
A new life awaits
No matter rough seas
You will make it to the surface
You will swim effortlessly
You will make it this time
And I promise you’ll see
Grace always in your life
And don’t forget me!
Select Format
Book Details
About the Book
Chasing Grace is the story of a boy who wanted nothing more than to leave his troubled life behind him, but what he found instead is a cast of mystical and loving sea creatures beneath the waves who taught him that grace is abundant and ever-present, even in the most unlikely places! Chasing Grace is a testament to the optimism and hope that children often have, but like us, they need a gentle reminder to hold steady to that outlook through compassion for others and gratitude for the gifts we often take for granted.
Chasing Grace tells the intriguing story of a child’s journey to find grace. This story ministers to children and parents of children searching for hope, love, and purpose. Jennifer gives readers an opportunity to explore their own lives through the eyes of Chase and to be uplifted by important discoveries that change his life and the readers’ for the better. The sea creatures come alive as they guide Chase on his journey to discover what is already inside of him. This book explores the heart of a child and reveals special gifts through colorful imagery— a gift to be shared with children and parents everywhere.
—Sheila Sturgis Craig, Director of the Center for Elimination of Disproportionality and Disparities,
Texas Health and Human Services Commission
Chasing Grace is a tender and poignant story that is all too common for children healing from painful experiences. Jennifer paints a beautiful story of how love and grace can conquer fear and pain. Her story personifies God’s gift of grace that is available to each of us and underscores the inherent value of each child. She provides thought-provoking discussion starters inspired by her own experience working with system-involved children. This book is particularly well-suited for parents, counselors and other childcare professionals who are helping children of all ages understand the lessons that can be gleaned during or after distressing situations.
—Tammy Holland, Manager of Family, Community, and Chaplaincy Programs,
Texas Juvenile Justice Department
About the Author
Jennifer has spent many years as a volunteer walking alongside youth and adults who struggle with hope and self-worth. She emphasizes self-esteem and a sacred connection that we all share as God’s creation, and her experiences specifically with incarcerated youth motivated her to complete a Master’s degree in pastoral ministry at Loyola University-New Orleans. Jennifer is a full-time regulatory attorney, certified archetypal consultant with Caroline Myss’ “Sacred Contracts” program, and also working toward becoming a board-certified chaplain. Jennifer is a proud native of New Orleans and returns home at every opportunity!
Check out the other books in Jennifer’s series “Lightheart Kids,” available with Discussion Questions for each book at https://www.lightheartkids.com