Struggles of depression with PTSD provoke denial. Self medication with alcohol doesn't deter reflections. Homeless again, does she stay in California or return to the East Coast to assist family members in crisis. A recurring nightmare forces its total exposure proving itself more real than imaginary as it takes demonic possession making her fight for dominion over her own soul.
Nyima comes to the affirmative conclusion that she was out of control, and it's the best thing that could have happened to her.
In becoming so, she finally relinquishes control to the One who knew her heart from the beginnin; the One who loved her like she was the only one to love; the One whol loved her best; the One who'd never stop; and the One who never interfered with her being in control, until she surrendered it to Him.
Nyima Chante Robbins learns that to be more she must do more, and to have more she must expect more, but for success - she must align her acts according to the Word of God, not the words of the world.
Professional Reviews
Loved This Book
I absolutely loved this book. Started reading it and could not put it down until I was done.
This book is both a look at the physical and the spiritual side of the human being. Fighting the very human diseases of addiction and fear, we often manage to completely get drawn down into the day to day suffering that, frankly, we put upon ourselves - if only we would remember that there is someone who is there for you.
Born to Return the Gift beautifully portrays the struggles and disconnect our the main character - having been exposed to the harsh realities of addiction at a young age, she grows up with low self-esteem and slowly but very surely throws herself into the world of depression and suffering. Yet, somehow through the haze, she finds herself reaching towards a stronger being -only to realize that she was indeed put on this earth for a reason and that she can live up to that great expectation.
This book is a gem. I loved the way it was written and I liked the fact that it is so empowering. This book tackles a tough subject matter - depression and the struggle to be the person that you were meant to be - however, it tackles it in a loving and honest way that made me cheer for our main character AND remember that we all have a worthwile life to live.
Great, great read.
Fighting Depression and Winning
"Born to Return the Gift" by Catherine Johnson is a real, thought provoking attention grabbing book. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it from start to finish. I knew it would be a book I would enjoy from the start. I especially liked how the book started with a strong quote, "Each life is a gift from God. What is done with it is a gift to Him in return." This book explores serious topics such as addiction, depression and low self esteem, but it never feels heavy or preachy. The author is an AMAZING writer. Her style flows well and her descriptions are so detailed. She develops that characters so you feel like you know them, sympathize with them or feel hatred towards them. She draws the reader into the book with ease. Nyima, the main character, has a hard life. She had a difficult time growing up too, the daughter of an addict, she lacks self esteem when we first encounter her. As the book develops so does Nyima. She realizes her life has meaning and starts her journey to find out what she needs physically, emotionally and spiritually. You will enjoy traveling this journey with her as you read this book.
Inspiration
"Each life is a gift from God" is the opening quote of this book and the repeating theme throughout. Nyima is a very strong character who embarks on a journey to find her way and what she needs. The author does an amazing job of bringing the reader along for this journey.
I really enjoyed reading this book. It takes a tough look at some very real problems without being overbearing. "Born to Return the Gift" is a very inspiring book that everyone will enjoy reading.
From the Caribbean Sea to Machu Picchu in Peru, and from birds to flowers and butterflies, Reflections and Treasured Wonders offers a collection of images gathered from around the world.
