VAN BUREN, Ark. – Like a Phoenix rising from the ashes, Paula Dickerson has been to life’s darkest recesses and back. Dickerson, a dedicated mom and Christian, relished her relationship with her only child, Amber CarLeigh. When Amber died at the age of 29, it took God’s intervention to bring Dickerson back to her feet. In her powerful new memoir, “Glory Came in Amber Rays: A Mother’s Spiritual Journey into the Heavenlies” (published by CrossBooks), Dickerson shares stirring lessons on love, acceptance and faith.
“She brought pure joy and sunshine to my heart from the very beginning of her life,” says Dickerson of Amber. In “Glory Came in Amber Rays,” she writes of their life together, exposing the special ties between mother and daughter. She also writes of the heartbreak she faced after Amber’s death. In her knee-buckling grief, she fell into prayer, seeking comfort from the only source able to provide it.
“I had prayed continuously for days that God would save her,” remembers Dickerson. “I crashed when she left and prayed to God for Him to take me with her. He did not grant that wish but allowed me a glimpse into the heavenlies to watch a brilliant vision of two angels carrying my child to heaven. The vision did not rescue me from the tremendous grief I faced because she was gone, but it has provided constant reassurance that my prayers were answered and Amber does live. Some day God will call out my name, and I will rise to meet Him and Amber in the heavens. This will be one ‘Oh Happy Day.’”
Dickerson shares her story in “Glory Came in Amber Rays” for the glory of God and with the hope that it may bring others to know God’s love.
About the Author
Paula Dickerson was born and raised in Wickes, Ark., on her grandfather’s farm. She earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and a master’s degree in counseling from Henderson State University. Now a retired teacher, she lives in Van Buren, Ark., with her husband, Merle.
About Author
Jeri Pearson
Jeri is the News Director for Pulse Multi-Media and Editor of The Polk County Pulse. She has 10 years of experience in community focused journalism and has won multiple press association awards.

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