The Gift of the Unexpected
Discovering Who You Were Meant to Be When Life Goes Off Plan
About
"Intense. Stunning. Needed. Jillian's words will help you discover beauty in the unexpected."--LESLIE MEANS, creator of Her View From Home
"Thoughtful and honest, Jillian's story of transformation reminds us that God is present and pursuing us, even in the most unexpected moments of our lives. Read and be changed."--KAYLA CRAIG, author of To Light Their Way and creator of Liturgies for Parents
What if the unexpected is the beginning of becoming your truest self?
Jillian Benfield was living life in the spotlight as a TV journalist, but after receiving a life-altering diagnosis for her unborn son, she realized no camera-ready outfit could dress up her grief.
Overcoming this unexpected circumstance wasn't an option. She would have to undergo it instead. In doing so, she discovered who she was and who God wanted her to become.
In this riveting story filled with grit and grace, Jillian helps you break down the false constructs you've built around God and your identity. You won't avoid your pain, but you'll learn to feel it, in a healing way. And you'll discover how your internal transformation leads to external purpose.
No matter what you're going through, you're invited to open this gift: The Gift of the Unexpected
Endorsements
"This book is nothing short of extraordinary! I'm not sure I have ever had words on a page meet me so deeply, exactly where I am. For every single one of us who has been knocked to the floor these last few years, The Gift of the Unexpected offers us a way forward: by first going back. And this time truly leaning into the transformation offered. Jillian's words are equal parts raw, real, and redemptive. I can't wait to share this beautiful book with everyone I know!"
Mary Marantz, bestselling author of Dirt and Slow Growth Equals Strong Roots, host of The Mary Marantz Show
"Intense. Stunning. Needed. Jillian's words will help you discover beauty in the unexpected."
Leslie Means, creator of Her View From Home
"This book extends an invitation to see that what cracks our hearts can also expand them. Thoughtful and honest, Jillian's story of transformation reminds us that God is present and pursuing us, even in the most unexpected moments of our lives. Read and be changed."
Kayla Craig, author of To Light Their Way and creator of Liturgies for Parents
"In The Gift of the Unexpected, Jillian reveals the beauty of transformation through life's difficult circumstances when we choose to undergo rather than overcome our hardships. This subtle shift points toward hope in the middle of life's inevitable unexpected moments and will leave you forever changed."
Mikala Albertson, MD; author of Ordinary on Purpose: Surrendering Perfect and Discovering Beauty Amid the Rubble
"Written with gentleness, thoughtfulness, and honesty, Jillian Benfield's particular story of giving birth to a child with Down syndrome is a balm for all of us who dare to doubt and dare to hope that God is present in the midst of the unexpected hardships and unexpected beauty of our lives."
Amy Julia Becker, author of To Be Made Well and A Good and Perfect Gift
"Jillian's story reminds us that no matter how painful, the unexpected circumstances of our life aren't the end of our story. God can take what shakes up our world and turn it into our deepest purpose. Jillian's words are beautifully raw and will meet anyone who's suffering with validation and hope."
Kelli Bachara, licensed professional clinical counselor and writer
"In The Gift of the Unexpected, Jillian Benfield shows us that life's unexpected--and unwanted--twists and turns can lead us toward purpose and reveal both the power and significance of landing in unanticipated circumstances. Benfield takes us on a journey of hurting, healing, hoping, and ultimately becoming."
Jenny Albers, author of Courageously Expecting: 30 Days of Encouragement for Pregnancy After Loss
"An essential read for anyone who's ever faced unmet expectations. Jillian tackles the complex realities of life in a way that puts God's purpose into perspective. Her stories are authentic and practical as she gently reminds us it's okay to not be okay."
Allen Thomas, lead pastor, Outer West Community Church
The Author
-
© Gregory Daniel of Gregory Daniel Portrait Artist Jillian Benfield
Jillian Benfield (www.jillianbenfield.com) is a former journalist and news anchor. She holds a broadcast journalism degree from the University of Georgia. As a freelance writer, her essays about living an unexpected life have appeared on sites such as TODAY,...
Continue reading about Jillian Benfield