Heroines of the Past

Amy’s Corner

When I was fifteen years old I had my tonsils removed but for some reason I never bounced back from the surgery. Since then I have gone through years and years of pain, fatigue, and suffering. There have been days when simply getting out of bed took all my energy. Initially the doctors said it was Mono but when I didn't get better they said it must be Chronic Fatigue and finally I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia. To compound the problem I have multiply allergies, a redundant colon, and headaches. During the first years of my illness God brought a wonderful friend into my life who has been a source of encouragement to me. My dear aunt knew what a hard time I was going through and gave my address to a friend of hers who had (and was) going through many of the same things. Lisa Williams has since that time become a precious friend and understanding confidant. It was so refreshing just to write to someone who knew and experienced the same struggles I faced. When Lisa and I first started corresponding she wrote notes to several people but over time her writing has turned into a ministry. A friend of hers who works with Federal Prison Outreach Ministry asked her if she would be willing to write to women in prison. Lisa answered the calling and now has an amazing ministry called Joy for the Journey, a ministry of encouragement. She has pen pals all over the country. When God takes something (health, etc.) He always gives something else. For Lisa He suddenly blessed her with the ability to write poetry. Before her illness she had never written anything that rhymed but when her illness came God provided her with this beautiful gift. After many years of trying to get her poems published she now has a book available. A Poetic Journey, a collection of poetry by Lisa W. Williams touched my heart. Each poem of suffering, celebration, and praise was an expression of a real longing to know God more. Interspersed between the poems is Lisa’s own story. It is a journey of joy! When I finished reading it I felt like a refreshed traveler who had found a crystal clear lake in a vast desert.

If you know someone who is going through a hard time then this book would make a perfect gift or if you just want to read hopeful poems then you will enjoy this book also. All the proceeds from the book will be donated to the Federal Prison Outreach Ministry.

To order a copy send $12 ($10 for the book and $2 for shipping) to: Joy for the Journey
P.O. Box 150274
Nashville, TN 37215

God is using Lisa's weakness in mighty ways. Lisa is such a great encouragement to so many people, including me.