The US Review of Books commended “Out of Darkness” by Diane Mobley because it “features candid and heart-wrenching reports”

We can enter a state of mourning after experiencing a loss of any kind, such as the death of a loved one, losing our jobs, or perhaps having an expectation not met. We have the option to choose between living in misery and living in peace every day. What would your life be like if you made the latter decision?

Every one of us has gone through some sort of pain in our lives, whether it was psychological, physical, or emotional. We have two options: we can wallow in our suffering or we can use our suffering to help make a difference. Someone out there is experiencing what caused you pain in the past, and they could benefit from your wisdom, experience, and insight to get through it. May love and hope open your eyes to the wisdom behind every hurt, disappointment, or loss.

Donna Ford of the US Review of Books praised Diane Mobley’s “Out of Darkness”, affirming that “the author’s book features candid and heart-wrenching reports of what followed Michael’s suicide—from the strategically positioned and self-inflicted gunshot to yellow police tape across the family’s front lawn identifying a possible crime scene to a note left for his parents wishing to cause the family no more grief.”

Mobley’s son, Michael, was a likable young man. His behavior and heart of generosity were highly regarded by his teachers at school and at church. This was the situation before he became engaged with drugs, which led to lying and stealing. Mike’s father observed that he had expensive tastes and presented his family as wealthy. Even when the police got involved, he developed into an expert at concealing his double life. On Thursday, he appeared in court; on Sunday, he passed away.

Family members avoided discussing Michael for eight years following his suicide. His parents both appeared prepared to starve themselves to death. The author put on more than 100 pounds, and the father’s health continued to decline. At that point, she made the decision to record the family’s traumatic memories of her son’s passing in writing. She believed that other people might benefit from their experiences.

Here’s an excerpt from the US Review of Books that highlights:

“These experiences effectively recount a tragic nightmare—one full of anger, denial, guilt, and grief. Yet, Mike’s father noted that his wife became her old self as she worked with the help of a friend to recall and record them. In fact, Mike’s father was among the first willing to offer his memories. The healing which resulted from the author’s efforts can serve as a guide to others on how to heal their own lives. Mobley’s poignant and honest book could serve as a helpful model for readers facing similar situations to record some of their own grief.”