1. Both Irene and Marcus were afraid to reveal parts of their pasts. Why do you think it’s so hard to be vulnerable with other people—even people you love and trust?
2. God placed Mary Ruth and Henry in Irene’s life at just the right time. In what ways did they help her heal?
3. I used the scripture verse from Joshua as my guide for this story. “This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” What part of this verse resonates with you?
4. I thought the following Amish proverb, “Experience is a different teacher, giving you the test first and the lesson later,” went especially well with Irene’s and Marcus’s story. In what ways did their past experiences give both Irene and Marcus the courage to love?