By Gloria Austin
Staff Writer
There has always been a desire within Lois Flewelling to accomplish many things — writing a book was one of them. The finished product is now on shelves nationwide.
Flewelling of Houlton has written a new book called “Emerge.” The spiritually-based principles within the book are practical applications, as she describes her book as”a written toolbox designed to encourage those who are overwhelmed with life’s struggles.”
“As a mental health counselor, I hear the stories of many who are overwhelmed with the hurt and pain that come through destructive circumstances that are out of our control — health issues, job change, loss, family disruptions or relational difficulties — and I wanted to share my story of how I emerged stronger from my own difficult circumstances with the help of God,” she added.
Flewelling noted that statistics show that anxiety, depression, anger and isolation are on the rise nationwide.
“These are ‘caves’ people retreat to and do not know how to come out of, “ she said. “The intent of telling my story and those of others who have emerged stronger is to inspire others to do the same. God did not design us to live in defeat, but rather victoriously in Him.”
Flewelling’s purpose for writing the book is to empower people so they, too, can be healed and freed from being stuck in these dark times.
“Despair, rejection and control do not have to keep us crippled inside,” she explained. “The pages of this book contain keys and wisdom that guide us through God’s refining process so that we can emerge from the dark and into the future of greatness God has for us.”
As a licensed clinical professional counselor at Empowering Life on Military Street in Houlton, Flewelling has noticed the mechanism for coping today is often through isolation.
“Lots of people are isolating themselves,” she said. “They are labeled by society, judged or criticized. God sees them differently.”
In her book, Flewelling calls for individuals who are willing to take a risk, stand up and become who God calls them to be and believe what God says about who they are,” she said.
Her stories within the book draw from personal experiences to sharing those stories of others who have faced conflict.
“A few parts are very personal,” she said. “It is very difficult to put yourself out there to the public. That is part of taking a risk. I deal with people all the time who are afraid to tell their story because of what others will think.”
Flewelling believes if others can relate to her experiences, they too can step out of their ‘cave.’
“The word I like to use is to “empower” people to step out of their own insecurities and move forward,” she explained. “The principles in the book worked for me. I have even implemented them in my sessions with clients.”
Flewelling practices both clinical and spiritual based counseling.
People are going to get hurt on one level or another (emotionally or spiritually).
“God can help everyone no matter where they are,” said Flewelling. “We all have the ability to change our circumstances.
“I enjoy writing. I have always journaled; it has been part of my life,” she said. “Finishing my book and getting it published has been an interesting journey for a first-time author who did not understand the process.
“I think the toughest part is the apprehension that comes with the response you will receive,” Flewelling added.
So far, the response has been favorable with many appreciating the message within.
Emerge was released in October. It is being sold nationwide in book stores. It is on Amazon; carried at York’s Book Store, Main Street, Houlton or online at empowerlife.org. Kindle accessibility will also be established by the end of the month. The book can also be purchased at Empowering Life at 144 Military St. in Houlton.
Flewelling has been asked to do a book study after Christmas. For more information on the group session, call Empowering Life at 532-9906.
“My goal is to for people to see that Jesus can help them,” said Flewelling. “Our answer is in Christ. He is the one who can really help us get out of our struggles and move forward.”
Flewelling will be working on another book soon.
“I already have one inside me,” she said with a smile.
