When pain occurs repeatedly, faith and trust in God is the only lifeline. At least, that’s what saved Alicia S. Jones.In her new book, “Sentenced to Live,” Jones recounts the grief and sadness of losing her first two babies to health complications and birthing a third child, who has cerebral palsy. But instead of constant mourning, Jones relies on her unwavering faith to emerge joyful and encouraged.
“This book is an insight into my journey through motherhood. My goal is to offer hope for those who are going through grief and loss. For me, it was prayer, purpose and patience that helped me move forward,” said Jones, who a member of First AME Church of Los Angeles.
“By all accounts, one could make the argument that my life’s journey has been plagued with multiple death sentences,” she explained. “But through it all, I remain blessed and more faithful than ever.
“I believe that there is a plan and a purpose for each of our lives. We all will experience seasons of loss, pain, and suffering, but I want readers to know that there is a purpose behind the pain.”
Surprisingly, it was Jones’ supporters that inspired her to pen her story and throughout the book, she covers a range of topics. Among the subjects are pregnancy, miscarriage, grief and special needs parenting.
She also emphasizes the philosophy that there is “life after loss” and those who are going through the trauma should remember that it’s okay to cry or be angry. She noted that the emotional roller coaster is part of the healing process.
“But, don’t get stuck there. You will rise again, so don’t give up. It’s not always about you; you may be the bridge to carry someone else over troubled waters,” said Jones.
Also, whether the reader is a believer or not, Jones believes they will benefit from the lessons espoused in “Sentenced to Live.” In her opinion, “Believers will connect with me sharing my faith in God. And even though non-believers may not share my faith, the feeling of pain and loss is universal. It’s an experience to which anyone can relate.”
In addition to her faith, Jones said that she has been blessed with a wonderful husband, Gregory, and enjoyable outlets such as cooking, singing, running and “recruiting high school students to attend college.”
A native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana and she graduated from Southern University and A&M College and currently serves as vice president of Southern University Alumni Los Angeles Chapter.
As for the future, Jones said she will always be guided by her favorite scripture, Jeremiah 29:11. “I believe that there is a plan and a purpose for each of our lives. As Jeremiah proclaims, ‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.’”
“Sentenced to Live” is available at Amazon.com, BarnesandNoble.com and sentencedtolive.com.
