Choosing to SEE Summary & Key Insights

"Choosing to SEE" by Mary Beth and Steven Curtis Chapman is a deeply personal memoir detailing their journey through unimaginable grief and their subsequent path towards healing and faith after the tragic death of their youngest daughter, Maria Sue, in a car accident. The book isn't simply a recounting of their loss; it's a testament to their unwavering faith, the power of community, and the complexities of navigating profound sorrow.

The central plot revolves around the Chapmans' experience of losing Maria Sue, a vibrant and beloved child. The narrative unfolds chronologically, starting with the devastating accident and its immediate aftermath, then moving through the stages of grief – the shock, the denial, the anger, the bargaining, and the eventual acceptance. We witness the family's raw vulnerability and their internal struggles to reconcile their loss with their deeply held faith. Mary Beth and Steven Curtis, alongside their other children, become the key characters, each grappling with the tragedy in their own unique way. The book provides intimate glimpses into their individual emotional responses, highlighting the different ways grief manifests and the challenges of supporting each other through such a devastating experience.

A critical element is the role of faith in their healing process. While acknowledging their intense pain and questioning their faith at times, the Chapmans ultimately find solace and strength in their religious beliefs. They emphasize the importance of leaning on their faith community, their church, and their friends for support and guidance. The book subtly challenges the simplistic "faith cures all" narrative, instead presenting a more nuanced perspective of faith as a journey, not a destination, offering comfort and hope amidst suffering.

The overarching themes center on the power of forgiveness, the importance of community, and the enduring strength of family. The Chapmans' journey highlights the significance of forgiveness, not only of themselves but also of the driver involved in the accident. They stress the importance of choosing to see beyond the pain and anger, focusing on love and compassion. The book also emphasizes the invaluable role of community in offering support during times of crisis. Their friends, family, and church congregation played a vital role in helping them navigate their grief. Finally, the resilience of their family unit in the face of tragedy is a powerful testament to the enduring bonds of love and connection.

"Choosing to SEE" is not a straightforward account of overcoming grief. It's a raw, honest, and emotionally resonant exploration of faith, loss, and the transformative power of love and forgiveness in the face of unimaginable tragedy. It offers readers a profound and empathetic perspective on navigating grief, providing comfort and hope to those who have experienced similar losses.