Written By Melissa Norris
About the Author
Melissa Norris and her husband of forty years, Terry Norris, live in a small community nestled in the Columbia River Gorge in Washington State. In the early years of their marriage, they lived in Oregon on a small farm raising their three beautiful children. The cover image of this book is an ode to the sweet lambs and mama sheep raised during those precious days of her young family. Since her early twenties, Melissa has been a Christian and developed some of her most beloved friendships through her faith. Many of these same friendships have been the vehicles used to usher in her participation as a core member on Sanctioned Love’s Ministry team. This unique and powerful team lead by Lynda Renne is actively traveling and ministering the message of Isaiah sixty-one. Melissa is also one of the authors in Sanctioned Love’s first book, Transfigured: Scrolls from Heaven. Melissa is known to be a woman who walks in the deep waters of wisdom. Her searching heart for God in the midst of her life journeys has produced profound levels of depth. These levels of depth and wisdom have come from what her Heavenly Father has written on the story of her life even before time began.
About the Book
Messy Poems and Not-So-Private Prayers is a book to be read and savored. Norris's unique lyrical style is seamlessly interwoven with scripture, scriptural concepts and vivid pictures. Specifically designed to house 31 different poem pieces, one for each day. This book is clearly from the heart of a women on a journey with God. By the inspiration of the Holy Spirit she pens the gift of poetic expression. Through her prose we see humanity, struggle, and triumph of the spirit in a fresh new way. We see a faith in God that produces hope. The level of insight and emotion draws you with every word, as the anointing on each poem calls the reader to a heart of humility and courage. Stirring you to yearn deeper, stirring you to have a stronger desire for more intimacy with the Holy Trinity. Each chapter challenging you to delve deeper into God's Word and to study the stories and characters that she has brought to life. This book will be a cherished addition to your library to be read, re-read, and pondered afresh
Endorsements for the Book and Author
Melissa Norris has written a very deep and authentic display of who she is in her personal walk with her Lord and Savior, Jesus. She is a profound woman who walks in levels of wisdom that come from what her Heavenly Father had written on her life even before time began. She has significant and poignant passions that move those around her to look deep within themselves and want to grow as a person, mentally, emotionally, and especially spiritually. Her personal touch gives you a unique opportunity to peek into her soul while propelling you to the heartbeat of your own convictions. I consider it a great honor to serve alongside Melissa in Sanctioned Love. She is a comrade of the most faithful kind.
-Lynda Renne President of Lynda Renne Ministries/Sanctioned Love Ministry
Messy Poems and Not-So-Private-Prayers is a collection of heart songs investigating one woman's humanity through her faith. Each poem is different from the next; each poem exploring the well of her intimate life moments and ruminations. Melissa has a gift for making words feel palpable and vivid to the imagination. Whether you are deeply rooted in your love-relationship with Christ or walk a more conservative connection of spirituality, this book offers you a light and comfort that assures you are not alone on your journey through life.
-Megan Norris MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
This book is an amazing journey of one woman searching for God in her life. As she writes her poetic words like a living journal, she speaks from a place of stark honesty. She lays open before you her vulnerable emotions just as real as when she and her Heavenly Father had prayed them out. Like a child crying in the night for her papa she trusts, knowing that God is her only answer. So many of us know this cry. We wonder where God is and why we often feel so very alone. This book Messy Poems and Not so Private Prayers travels through many of these difficult questions, and to read her personal revelations could very well change your life.
-Karen Haren Ph.D. co-author of Where is God in the Turmoil of a Life-Threatening Illness?
After knowing Melissa Norris for over thirty years, I have developed a deep appreciation for the battles she has fought and overcome along the path of her life. She is a woman deeply loved as a sister, a friend by me, and many others who know her for her integrity. She is both witty and contemplative, sensitive and strong, spiritual and profound. You will love this book as she brings herself out of the shadows and shares her light with you.
-Teresa Stroup MSW, LCSW International Executive Director, Good Samaritan Ministries
Poems by Title
