live slowly: A Gentle Invitation to Exhale by Jodi H. Grubbs

Jodi Grubb’s book, published by InterVarsity Press, live slowly, is a breezy reminder to do just that. Thoughtful questions cap each chapter for personal reflection and engagement.

During this season of caretaking my dad in our home, I find myself in an ongoing wrestling match between peace and weariness — I find myself drawn to these types of book titles as I find stable footing during this season of the “long goodbye.”

Why is dementia called the long goodbye?

The fact is, Alzheimer’s is an irreversible disease and, unacceptably, has no known cure. It slowly steals the victim’s mind, leaving a long trail of broken-down, worn-out family members and caregivers behind.

{quote from Fisher Center for Alzheimer’s Research Foundation}

In part one, she underscores our personal need to exhale. No matter where we are or what our vocation is — we must give ourself space to breathe.

In part two, she gives examples of how to slow down leaning heavily on being present with God, self, and others.

In part three, permission is granted to enter in to a lifestyle of slower living.

Toward the end on page 176, Jodi gives the reason behind her appreciation of the open hands emoji and one of my favorite quotes which I feel summarizes the overall theme of her book.

“It has many meanings: an invitation, a blessing, a form of querying, a prayer lifted high, and a symbol of the words—may it be so.

A melting of our frozen frame of mind—open palms can feel like both a vulnerability and a welcomed truce.

Open hands lifted each morning keeps me from striving against the plan my heavenly Father has appointed for me. When I practice it, I find myself resting and being more present in the moment as a wife, caretaker, mother, Marmee, and friend.

The Eighteen Slow Living Shifts found in each chapter are listed in the appendix and followed by a helpful Group Discussion Guide making this a ready resource for a book study group.

Well done, Jodi!

If you are interested in reading Jodi’s book, you may find it here!