Glad I Didn't Know: Lessons Learned Through Life's Challenges and Unexpected Blessings

Glad I Didn’t Know is a compelling anthology that weaves together the stories of resilient individuals who bravely recount some of the most challenging periods in their lives, as well as unexpected moments of joy and blessings. 

The common thread in each story lies in the revelation of what the individuals are grateful they didn’t know during those trying times. Glad I Didn’t Know showcases the transformative power of adversity and uncertainty, emphasizing that the true purpose of life’s challenges often becomes apparent only in hindsight.

Follow along as one person leaves a beloved and lucrative career with no idea what’s next, only to encounter a series of hardships within three months, like a child’s severe injury, a house flooding, and the loss of a parent, while elsewhere a couple retires to help others and enjoy life only for the husband to be diagnosed two weeks later with cancer that was so severe the doctor suggested he go home and prepare his will. Each story delves into the emotional turmoil, anxiety, and uncertainty experienced during these challenging times, followed by an “Aha!” moment where the author reflects on the divine intervention and lessons learned.

Glad I Didn’t Know encourages people to persevere through difficulties, offering a lens through which to view personal situations and see how a sovereign God has worked behind the scenes in unseen ways. By navigating the highs and lows of various life stories, Glad I Didn’t Know serves as a guide to help individuals avoid bitterness, doubt, and worry, fostering a realization that they serve a God who orchestrates all things for good. 

From working at Dairy Queen to serving as managing partner of a national CPA firm, Vonna Laue has experienced the highs and lows that life offers, both professionally and personally. Vonna is the coauthor of the Essential Guide to Church Finance as well as two other tax and financial guides. She has written numerous articles and is a frequent conference speaker, most recently in the area of personal leadership. Raised in rural America and currently residing in Frederick County, Virginia, Vonna has lived in most regions of the country with her husband, Bryan.