This morning, I’m writing from my dining room table, fogged windows framing a grey, wintry world outside. I’m wrapped in a blanket, laptop open, getting the final edits in on my chapter for the Hope*Writers collaborative book. It’s due for submission in just a few days.

Last week, I asked if you’d read an early draft. Honestly, I wasn’t sure what to expect. But the outpouring of encouragement and thoughtful reflections you sent in?

It undid me, in the best way.

Here’s just a glimpse of what some of you shared:

“I love how you were very real and vulnerable about your struggles. I think that will really speak to women who are battling anxiety.”

“Thank you for being so vulnerable and willing to share this. I found that it really resonated with me.”

“It is very relatable! Again, thank you for your bravery and honesty.”

“Thank you so much, you’re brave to be that honest.”

“I wept as I read.”

“I could totally relate. What a sense of relief.”

“There were several moments of, ‘Me too!’ It felt good to have my own issues acknowledged, and then followed up with encouragement and backed up by God’s word.”

Your words reminded me of something I’ve been holding in my heart lately: “Heal out loud so that others don’t have to suffer in silence.” Maybe that’s part of my calling as a writer.

I even wrote a prayer for the woman who has suffered in silence. If you missed it on the blog this week, you can read it here:
👉 A Prayer for the Christian Woman Who Has Suffered in Silence

Thank you again for reading, for responding, and for walking this journey with me. I’ve got a list of lovely friends to reply to by email, and I’m soaking in every word as I finish up these edits this weekend.

If you’re iced or snowed in like we are, I hope you stay warm and safe.

With so much gratitude,
Kristy 💐

As a reader of Friday Reads, you’re part of the heartbeat behind my writing.

This week, I’m excited (and a bit nervous) to share something deeply personal—a first draft of a chapter I’ve written for a new collaborative book with Hope*Books.

Before I send it to the editing team at the end of the month, I’d love your honest feedback.

If you’re up for reading the chapter and sharing a few thoughts, just hit reply and say, “I’m in.” I’ll send it your way.

I’m hoping to gather feedback by next Friday (Jan. 23), so there’s a short window—but even a few quick reactions would mean so much.

Thanks for being here with me! I can’t wait to hear from you.

With gratitude,
Kristy 💐