Books by Tonia M. Christle: Behind the Poem: BEAUTY FOR ASHES

Thursday, June 28, 2012

Behind the Poem: BEAUTY FOR ASHES

The title poem, BEAUTY FOR ASHES, (Beauty for Ashes, pg 15) was written on May 30, 2006. This poem was inspired, in part, by Bible verses (Isaiah 61:1-3) which I had heard read out in church by a close friend who was struggling, a few years earlier. At the time of writing this poem, though, I really wanted to explore the idea of beauty, and where beauty truly originates.

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Praise for Beauty for Ashes:

"Tonia gave me the book she wrote when I met her on tour. I read it, and shared it with my family and friends and we all LOVE IT! If you like poetry or reading, then you would love this! It's awesome!" - Jaimie

"This book is a quick read of inspirational and thought-provoking poetry. More than a hundred poems with themes of faith, struggle, and even current events of the past eight years or so. My favorites include What Story Do I Tell and Deep." - Tara

"Tonia has an amazing gift. It is clearly evident in the hundred or so poems in Beauty for Ashes. She asks many deep and soul-searching questions that all of us must ask ourselves in the midst of our trials, pain and brokenness. Tonia allows us to ponder issues such as the brevity of life and time, as well as the pain of broken relationships. She bravely and eloquently addresses social issues as well, such as the Holocaust, school shootings, simplicity and poverty. As Tonia dives into the depths of her own soul, she is able to open a door of hope to others in simply being open and honest about her own heart. She is able to speak words of healing and encouragement to those in pain and suffering by simply identifying with the pain. Many of her poems have spoken words of comfort to me when I have felt discouraged and broken. In reading this collection of heartfelt poetry, one will truly come to a place where they can exchange their Beauty For Ashes." - Joey

"Beauty for Ashes is an amazing book of poetry. It shows the struggles, revelations, and development of Tonia's faith over the years. Each and every poem is relateable to any reader's life. Tonia has a true gift, and I feel so lucky to have been able to see into her life through this book. Some of my personal favorites are "When My Brother Cries" and "The Prayer". Both are wonderful works that show Tonia's deep faith and her ability to overcome tough times. It is truly an amazing work of art!" - Mandy