A Perfect Advent Playlist
Joe McGivney, a relative of Knights of Columbus founder Bl. Michael McGivney, writes a very real and candid memoir, You’re a Miracle: My Story of Alcoholism, Miraculous Healing, and God’s Infinite Power and Love, published by Surrender Publishing, which is a courageous account in which he recounts his journey from struggling with sobriety to finding hope for recovery in the mercy of the Lord.
Pamela Rogers, MD, in her review of the work of nonfiction states:
"This is a treasure for anyone needing hope with addictions of any sort. Modern miracles do occur and it is refreshing to experience the author’s candor and acknowledgement of supernatural help. I highly recommend this book."
The title alone reveals much about the transformative journey that is at the heart of McGivney’s book. Starting from page one, he takes readers into an unfiltered narrative about his alcoholism; revealing highs and lows, wins and losses with such honesty that it leaves one feeling refreshed as well as moved by the conversion of McGivney after coming to terms with the incredible heartache and sorrow experienced by his loved ones. The reader cannot help but connect with McGivney in some way, shape, or form as he or she experiences the reality of McGivney's life by accompanying him on his path from woundedness to healing, and ultimately to accepting God's infinite and merciful love along with the fullness of Catholicism.
This is a memoir told in such a way that it feels like one is having a conversation with his or her best friend. In this state of vulnerability the reader truly feels what he was going through in becoming completely overtaken by his addiction to the point of reaching a state of psychosis. In the depths of utter despair when all hope seemed lost, without any medical explanation, one morning McGivney awoke from sleep completely well.
McGivney's memoir stands out because he examines the spiritual aspect of recovery. He shares a powerful moment of miraculous healing that changes his life. He openly acknowledges God's love and power in his recovery, turning this story into more than just overcoming addiction. It is a testimony to the transformative nature of faith and spirituality. With honesty and resilience the author offers hope and inspiration to others battling addiction.
McGivney emphasizes a significant truth that every person is a wonder, and this idea serves as a primary source of motivation and inspiration throughout the pages of the book. Even during challenging times, healing and transformation are possible because each person has within them the capacity to become open to the miraculous. He discovers later on that his Aunt Gerry had been asking for the intercession of Blessed Michael McGivney, founder of the Knights of Columbus.
You're a Miracle is not simply a work of nonfiction; it's a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the miraculous possibilities that lie within each of us. Joe McGivney's story is one of hope, redemption, and the enduring power of love, making this a must-read for anyone on a journey of self-discovery or seeking inspiration in the face of life's most tremendous obstacles and hardships.
Originally published at Missio Dei