Local author's book covers abuse, healing
Comet staff report

Based on her own experiences, Shelley G. Jones of Burlington has written an inspirational book titled "Healing of a Violated Spirit."

A survivor of childhood sexual and spiritual abuse, her emotional "volcano" erupted at age 34 after years of repression. The resurfacing of past hurts threatened to destroy both her and her marriage.

At that time, there was little to no information available to help her and her husband understand and deal with the crisis facing them. Now, through her book, the couple hopes to help others understand how unresolved issues of past abuse affects not only the survivor, but also marriage and family relationships.

Says the author, "From firsthand living and learning experiences, I address how sexual and spiritual abuse distorts a survivor's view of the world, distorts the person's view of God, and shrouds the survivor's self image in unworthiness. I clearly show the entanglement of perfectionism, claustrophobia, and panic attacks. Throughout the book, I offer insights and understanding to the recovery, healing, and reconciliation process. My husband and I survived the unimaginable."

"I fully believe there is a direct correlation between the unresolved issues of childhood abuse that the man and woman bring into a marriage relationship and the high divorce rate in this nation," the author says. "I offer hope that emotional and spiritual wholeness is possible after one's spirit has been violated - that marriages can not only survive, but thrive - and for those who see God through wounded eyes, reconciliation is possible."

The motto she now freely shares with others in need of healing is "On the other side of fear is freedom!"

Jones has established Heal the Wounded Spirit web site as part of an outreach ministry for the purpose of support, sharing understanding, and community awareness.

For more information on her book and ministry, visit www.healthewoundedspirit.co m.

Book Signing

When: Saturday, July 5

Where: Dinner Bell Restaurant, SR 29, Burlington

Time: 8 a.m. to 2p.m.

Shelley G. Jones and her husband, William, have resided in the Burlington area for 29 years. They have owned and operated Cornerstone Seeds, Inc., located south of Burlington, since 1985. Shelley's book, "Healing of a Violated Spirit," was published by Xulon Press in May 2008.