Читать книгу Twitch and Shout, Hallelujah, Amen - Gregory John Nashif - Страница 5

To the reader of this sacred story:

What you are about to read is a non-linear story written in some prose but mostly verse. This poetic journal is written out of a lot of experience in the life of a man who from an early age, was misunderstood. Greg consistently was talked down to and mocked for his differences.

Greg Nashif started his life with Tourette’s syndrome. At the time of his adolescence he was abused. This compounded the nature of his rejection and pain as he was not only told he was worthless, but he became a victim of people who exploited his vulnerability. He has faced a lot of rejection and pain.

I’ve gotten to know Greg as a friend for the last 7 years or so, walking alongside him in his angst and frustration. This time I’ve spent with him has helped me grow in empathy and love. His hurt has been a point of which he has grown and matured into a grace-filled man; learning to forgive and love in the direst of circumstances. This means he has eyes and ears to find the least of these and shine the love of God in their experience.

I cannot capture the level of love in Greg’s heart with words. What I can say is that amidst the oppression he faced, he always ended up turning to God to speak life into the despair that consumed him. It may have taken him years for somethings and months for others. His journey and internal process which you are about to read is so vulnerable and filled with courage. I dare you to read it without shedding a tear.

Ultimately this is a story of victory. The verses Greg wrote share his story about God’s redeeming grace. I hope you see yourself somewhere in the verses and can conclude that he ultimately kept coming back to.

God is the one who redeems and makes all things new. So, while you read, enjoy your own twitch and shout for the work God has and is doing in your life.

Blessings,

Scott Waters, MA, LPC