3 out of 4 stars
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From Partying to Praying by Rose Shackelford is an inspiring first person narrative from a former alcoholic who discovers her purpose in life when she starts believing in God. She candidly shares her unsatisfying dependence to one night stands, abusive relationships, heavy partying, and her breakthrough journey to a fulfilling life. This book is far from a patronizing lecture about religion; it reads as an insightful conversation with a friend who wants you to learn from her mistakes.
Getting drunk at twelve years old, Rose was hooked to the way that alcohol made her feel. She grew up with an alcoholic father, and it was normal for her to be around drunk adults. By fifteen, she became his drinking buddy. Her constant partying lead to a life of casual sex and drugs. When she got stuck in a very abusive relationship, she decided that it was time to change her life.
Rose impulsively joins the Air Force in an effort to escape her destructive lifestyle, but always found familiarity with people who she could party with. Anywhere in the world that the military sent her to, she would quickly attain an active social life, but she always felt empty and alone. There was something missing in her life and should could not figure out how to fill that void; numbing the pain was easier to do with alcohol and sex.
She thought getting married and starting a family would fill her void, but her reckless behavior continued. The love from her husband and her own child was still not satisfying enough. It was not until she finds out that her husband cheated on her, that she was committed to reevaluate her life. She turns to the church, and her life begins to improve. She shares the bad and the good experiences she had with the church.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. Rose’s storytelling is engaging. I could not relate to everything that she experienced, but I could reflect on some aspects of her stories in my life. At the end of each chapter, there is a convenient note taking section to keep track of your thoughts along the way. She does not preach about the right way to live by God; instead, she encourages you to listen to how God is leading you in your own life. I give this book a 3 out of 4 stars because there were a couple of grammatical errors. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading inspirational autobiographies. I also recommend this as a self-help book for people who are struggling with their marriage, friendships, and the role that God has in their lives.
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From Partying to Praying
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