Author: Steven Mcclanahan
Located in: Oak Ridge
Submitted: December 17, 2022
Tell us a little about yourself. First and foremost, I am a child of God through faith in Jesus Christ. I am a retired mechanical engineer and program manager. A father to two boys and a grandfather to three (soon to be four) grandchildren. I enjoy teaching and writing. I play golf and reading history.
What was your motivation behind this project? I finished the book Julia started as a way to honor her life and how God blessed her. Julia thrived despite having RA and the disability and pain she endured each day. My desire was for our boys and grandchildren to know her complete story.
What do you hope folks will gain from this project? Everyone deals with difficulties and hardships in life. Julia's story will hopefully provide encouragement . While there never was a "pick up your bed and walk" event in Julia's life God always walked before her. God opened and closed doors that gave her life purpose and allowed her to thrive despite her chronic illness. The message is that God desires to do the same for everyone as they place their faith and hope in Him.
How were you personally impacted by working on this project? As I learned more details regarding Julia's life before we met and since, I was struck by how God moved in her and our lives. Sometimes we need to stop as we " walk through valley or stand in the lions den" and look backwards to see how God has blessed us.
There is an old hymn that says, "count your many blessings name them one by one, And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done." Writing thiss book has convicted me to do that more often.
Who are your influences, sources of inspiration or favorite authors / artists? An autobiography by Joni Eareckson was my model for this book. It helped to achieve a deeper understanding of the book of Job. It also encouraged me to "count my blessings".
I have been inspired by reading Dr. Tony Evans, Max Lucado, and Dr. Ken Hemphill.
Anything else you'd like readers / listeners to know: People you know dealing with chronic illness or just hardships need loved ones and friends to just sit and visit. It is not required for you offer solutions just an ear, a safe place for them and feel included.
