MEET THE AUTHOR
COLLEEN
Colleen is an editor and the author of In the Hands of a Fiercely Tender God and the children’s book on suffering, Out of the Shadow World (to be released early 2023). She enjoys dark-dark chocolate, side-splitting laughter, and half-read books piled bedside. She makes her home near Boise, Idaho, with her husband Eddie, their son Jeremy, and Willow the dog.
A story for kids (especially those who are hurting)
Several years ago I wrote a story for my son whose world had been turned upside-down by both chronic illness and my first cancer diagnosis.
Cancer Updates 2023
March 1 My sweet friends! I’m sitting here at my desk—a beautiful little workspace tucked into the corner of my bedroom—with two happy houseplants and
A few thoughts on weakness…
Some days I resent not being further along in my growth and maturity. I wish I didn’t have such deep and long fault lines, such
Aging for the good of others
I grew up on the doorstep of Hollywood and Orange County, the beauty capitals of the world. When out-of-state friends visited, they were stunned by
Why hasn’t God healed me?
I used to think suffering was meant to teach me lessons—hard but good life lessons—and as soon as I learned what God wanted me to
Dear Younger Self
Dear Younger Self—I know it’s cliché,But I would go back if I couldTo say: Make yourself small,Don’t resent being weak—Humility before GodWill set you free.
Our cancer journey
If you know me, you’ve heard me say again and again, “Cancer doesn’t have the corner on the market of suffering.” Nor does cancer define
Merciful undoing
September 29, 2006 You use pain so wisely,With infinite care,Knowing right whereTo push and pull and tearAnd break and burnUntil I’ve finally learnedWith all my
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Mystery
June 14, 2022 Mystery— Living in theIn-betweenThe unknownThe not-yet Shadow, substanceLong and shortHandspan, breath…Infinite Holding on andLetting goOpen handedLingering Fragile, fearfulUnmoved, strongLaughing joyBitter drink Hoping
Cancer Updates 2022
As I did in 2021, I’m posting some of the email updates I send to friends and family. I typically edit these down a bit
Cancer Updates 2021
Dear readers, Below is a collection of emails I’ve sent to friends regarding my second, and terminal, cancer diagnosis. I’ve edited out the more personal
