What does it mean to be in relationship--relationship with God, with nature, with others, with ourselves? Is it possible the deepest meaning of life is in the journey and discovery of answers to these questions? We are born in darkness; a mystical journey that few embrace. Where did we come from? Why are we here? What lies beyond the mystery of death? Are these not the premises of all spiritual teachings? In Ashes to Beauty, you will read a brutally honest and vulnerable account of the spiritual journey of healing embraced by a brilliant and beautiful young girl--a young girl who wills to find her purpose in life despite the terror that looms in darkness. Driven by an intrinsic yearning for real love, the young girl emerges into a powerful woman who, despite several setbacks and poor choices on her journey of healing and freedom, eventually unveils the magnificent story of God's plan for her life--a life beyond her wildest dreams. This is a must read for those entrenched in the grips of trauma and addiction. "The author tells her personal story of tragedy and triumph. This book encourages readers to persevere through devastating circumstances and proves that God loves us dearly. He really does give us the desires of our heart. Nothing is impossible with Him. A wonderful memoir of hope and healing." --Carolyn Woods, Director, The R Factor Ministries "Wendy Noll is a special breed of humanity. Life threw at her its 'best' to try to take her out and Wendy threw back her 'better, ' not only for herself but for the thousands who have gained from her strength and determination to overcome, to thrive, to live fully. In raw form, Ashes to Beauty tells the tale and leads the way to recovery." --Rev. Michelle Sim, Founder, Northern Praise Ministries, Inspirational speaker and author Wendy Noll holds a bachelor's degree in Biblical Studies from North Carolina College of Theology and has recently attained credentials as a certified minister. She is a certified addiction counsellor and has served in the field of addiction in various capacities including counselling and teaching for over twenty years. Wendy has appeared on 100 Huntley Street and is an accomplished speaker. She has made it her life's work supporting trauma survivors and those entrenched in addiction. Wendy's greatest blessing is her family: her children, her grandchildren, and her beloved husband, Dale, with whom she lives in Southwestern Ontario.