Dear Girlfriends,

It’s awesome to be alive.

Life sucks.

So which of these two statements best represents where this Truth Nugget finds you today?

For me personally, life couldn’t be better. For the first time in over three years my family is whole; our son has returned and is thriving as he recovers from years of drug addiction. Steve and I love this season of our life and our marriage; and the topping on my glory cake – our daughter and son-in-law, Shauna and Adam, are expecting their first child in January! It’s awesome to be alive.

But maybe not for you.

Over the past six months, I have walked side-by-side with several of my dearest friends as they’ve journeyed through what some would refer to as hell on earth. I have seen tragedy, grief, confusion, and shame unlike I’ve ever witnessed before. Some of you, like them, are walking through the fire.

I wrote this series, The Piano Lesson, over two years ago. Key strokes flying, I couldn’t write the words fast enough. But each time I opened the file to prepare it to “send”, I would freeze. I would quickly close the file, panicked that I would offend you. But as I encourage the little girls in my life to be bold and courageous, so must I be as I write to you on the most important but controversial topic I know. Not money management; not child-rearing; not goal setting. But matters of the soul.

For those of you who are atheist or agnostic, I ask that you just hang with me for the next several weeks as you read along. I’m not looking for you to agree with me, but just as with any other series, I ask you to graciously allow me to share with you my deepest, most intimate thoughts. I’m not trying to convert you (although you probably know I’d love to). I so appreciate your willingness to let me be my authentic self. Please post your comments freely to share your views with me and our other girlfriends. I care deeply about what you think, and why.

For those of you who walk in a faith other than the Christian faith I subscribe to, I ask you to read along and consider how my observations might mirror your own and strengthen your resolve in matters of your spiritual maturation. I’m not looking to convert you, either (but I’ll be honest, you know I would if I could). I also look forward to learning from you as you share with me and others how this series applies to your own faith.

My purpose on this earth is not to save souls – I’m clear on my calling. My purpose is to love you as you are but to encourage you to become more; and with this series, to consider what spiritual growth could mean for you – not just when you die, but during both your brightest and darkest days while roaming this earth.

The audience for this specific series is you girlfriends who are curious about a walk with God and those of you who take your stroll with Him for granted. I warn my Christian girlfriends – this one may be “touchy” for you, too. I particularly take us to task. And of course I know you’ll tell me what you think – Christians rarely hold back! Thank you in advance for participating – we all look forward to gaining insight from your experience, too.

There are some fun parallels between connecting with one’s faith and learning to play the piano. So if you’re willing, I’ll take you through a series of piano lessons with the objective of teaching you to play Heart and Soul. Our first lesson will begin on Tuesday. Bring your music.

As bold and courageous as I’ve ever been,

Ellen