As I looked around the Hall, I saw the people behind the doors. The people who read the words I’d once pushed through their letterboxes. This was my seventh book, but the first time I’d held the book celebration close to my home. I’ve lived in this neighbourhood a long time, I used to deliver newspapers here. Pushing other peoples’ words through doors for people to read. And now people had walked through the door of the community hall, to celebrate with me over words I’d written.
It was no coincidence that they were there. They’d chosen to come. Neighbours and friends from near and far.
The coincidence of the day was reserved for something else.
On October 3rd 2018, the Prime Minister, Theresa May, gave a conference speech. In it, she mentioned her goddaughter, who struggled with cancer and lost her fight last year.
Teresa.
On October 3rd 2018, I said a few words at The Power of Seven book celebration. In doing so, I mentioned my friend, who struggled with cancer and lost her fight last year.
Teresa.
I dedicated The Power of Seven to her:
For Teresa
Remember how you despaired of my ineptitude with anything scientific or mathematical?
You’d have been amused to see a book of mine with ‘seven’ in the title.
But you won’t see it.
Because you’re seeing far, far better things.
As you said, you’re ‘partying in heaven before me’.
Don’t forget to save me a quiet corner.
Teresa was spoken of twice in one day.
Once in a broadcast to millions, and once in a hall not far from where I live.
Once by the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, and once by me.
Once in relation to her earthly legacy; Theresa May’s extra incentive regarding cancer treatment.
Giving human hope.
Once in relation to her spiritual legacy; the encouragement to remember that heaven is ahead.
Giving spiritual hope.
‘I’ll be partying in heaven before you.’
Teresa never doubted. Through it all, she trusted God.
Containing stories from my life, human stories, and weaving them together with verses and meditations on the bible, spiritual truths, it is a privilege to dedicate The Power of Seven to Teresa.
Beginning at creation, just as Teresa’s life began when God created her, working through ups and downs, challenges and less difficult times, the book ends with the hope of heaven. A hope Teresa never lost sight of. A hope now realised.
‘I’ll be partying in heaven before you.’
I heard a loud shout from the throne, saying, “Look, God’s home is now among his people! He will live with them, and they will be his people. God himself will be with them. He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever.” (Revelation 21: 3&4)
Buy The Power of Seven here.