Sacrifices of Joy (27 page)

1.
Throughout the novel, Sienna struggles with whether to trust her instincts. What exactly are instincts or gut feelings? What purpose do they serve? Should we trust them? Why or why not?

2.
Sienna unexpectedly receives a marriage proposal from Laz. Do you think she should marry him? Why or why not? How does her relationship with Laz compare to the initial relationship she had with RiChard? How does it compare to her previous relationship with Leon? What factors should Sienna consider regarding marriage? What issues, if any, would need to be addressed with Laz before a potential wedding, and how?

3.
The man Sienna suspects is a terrorist challenges her to examine what she believes. When looking at the basic elements of her faith, Sienna makes this observation: “Whatever you believe about the origin of life will determine what you believe about life's value and purpose.” What does this mean? What are your thoughts about her assertion?

4.
Laz questions Sienna's choice to become a social worker. What are your thoughts about his belief that her career choice was somehow related to RiChard? Do you think she is in the right occupation? Why or why not? What factors have influenced your own career choices?

5.
Who is your favorite character and why? What about the character's life, words, or actions speak to you?

6.
Consider the character of Sienna St. James. What are her motivations? Her intentions? What are her successes and her failures? In what ways does she grow throughout the novel? What areas of her life need further growth?

7.
How would you describe Sienna's relationship with the Lord? What about her sister Yvette's walk with Him? Can you relate to where either one of them are spiritually, and if so, how?

8.
Sienna acknowledges that there are multigenerational themes of stubbornness and problems with communication and relationships in her family. Reflect on your own family tree and all of its members. Do you notice any common themes, concerns, or issues across the generations? If so, how can these themes best be addressed and by whom?

9.
Sienna's office assistant, Darci, a single mom of twins, appears to take great interest in the man who shows up at the office. What advice would you offer Darci about relationships and men, especially as a single mother?

10.
Ava Diggs, Sienna's mentor, introduces the idea of “mirror moments.” She says, “We go about our days minding our business, then something happens to make us stop and stare and see who we really are, what we really look like, what we're really made of. Mirror moments tend to be rare, but life changing. Once we see ourselves for who we are, we have to make decisions on what to do with the image we see. Fix it, smile at it. Carry on with or without changes. We are forced to take ownership of the person we're facing in the mirror.” What are your thoughts about mirror moments? Have you had such moments in your life? What were the outcomes?