Today’s post comes from Kathleen E Kovach, author of Periwinkle in the Park included the collection, A Bouquet of Brides. Join us as she shares what she sees as the takeaway value from her story.
Mark Twain quoted: Forgiveness is the fragrance the violet sheds on the heel that has crushed it.
This is the ultimate result I want for my characters. Both heroine and hero have issues to deal with, but unfortunately, some of their “enemies” are not in a position to smell the fragrance of forgiveness. However, the idea that the violet gives of itself even after being crushed says a lot about the characters in my story.
Of course, it takes a few years for them to get to that point.
Have you ever had an “enemy” from the past, be it a person or a circumstance, that continues to torment you, years after the fact? Peri’s father is a retired missionary to the Native American people, many of whom had been directly affected by the voracity of the white man. His motto is “Forgive the unlovable; Love the unforgivable.”
Peri and Clay both have ghosts in their past. Peri is near to forgiveness when the story opens, but hasn’t quite gotten there. Clay, however, is drowning in his anger. Their journeys are similar in that neither can confront the offender, but God gives Clay a special gift that helps him along that journey.
‘Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.’ – Colossians 3:13
This is the takeaway value for my story, and it is my prayer for any reading this struggling to move on.
Kathleen E. Kovach is a Christian romance author published traditionally through Barbour Publishing, Inc. as well as indie. Having grown up in Colorado, Rocky Mountain National Park was her playground. She lives in northeast Colorado with her husband of over four decades and is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers. An award-winning author, she presents spiritual truths with a giggle, proving herself as one of God’s peculiar people. Please visit her at http://www.kathleenekovach.com.
Tagged: christian historical romance, christian romance, Kathleen E Kovach, romance novellas
Paula's Blog 
Loved this interview!! Love the quote: “Forgiveness is the fragrance the violet sheds on the heel that has crushed it.” That’s something to meditate on! I also love the title of Kathleen story, and look forward to reading it.
When I saw that quote in the post Kathy sent, I was so excited to get to share it with everyone!
Thanks for allowing me to share the takeaway value on your blog, Paula. I sometimes struggle with the spiritual aspect of my stories until I get to know my characters. Both heroine and hero made it very clear to me early on their pain and need to extend forgiveness. That’s how I know the Lord has specific people in mind to heal as they read my little story.
I love how the Holy Spirit brings things out as we write. And thank YOU for being here today!
Next best thing to being there in person! ❤
lelandandbecky: When I found that quote, it leapt out at me from my computer screen. Yes, so perfect for my characters. I hope you love my story as much as I do.
It is so hard to forgive. I just can’t get around it. Thank you for the quote I will ponder on it. The story sounds like it will be great to read.
Good one to ponder, isn’t it? Hugs to you my friend.
Tammy, whenever I write, I’m blown away by the spiritual truths God weaves throughout the story. More often than not, they are things I need to learn, as well. Still working on the forgiveness thing, but watching Peri and Clay work through it encouraged me to do the same. I pray it also blesses you.