The Deep Down Things reads as a collection of both memoir and spiritual truths. There is no denying that both Seth and Amber Haines are gifted wordsmiths and storytellers. Their ability to paint images with their text, convey emotions, and lead readers through the details makes this a interesting read.
It was also interesting to read of their journey through trauma, away from their Anglican service and into Roman Catholicism. While not all of the theology is going to line up with the majority of protestant readers, I appreciated the reminders of how many things, such as holy silence, transcend denomination and are just inherent to following Christ.
I also appreciated the honesty present in their stories. I was unfamiliar with the authors prior to this book, but the nature of this story required a vulnerability and openness that can sometimes inspire a glossing over or toxic positivity in contemporary religious books which was refreshingly absent from the Haines' work. Instead, I found their book to be willing not just to face the "deep down things" but open to sit and wrestle with them as each scenario required.
I did find it interesting that their chapter on forgiveness/reconciliation still tended more towards what I've seen in evangelical circles. Perhaps more fresh in my mind as I just finished another book on trauma, I was surprised to see more the traditional focus on the need to forgive, the work on the affected party's side, etc. While they did acknowledge the need of both parties involvement for reconciliation and a small mention of when healthy reconciliation cannot occur, I would have loved to see if there was anything in RC practice about healthy boundaries, recovering from trauma, and so on.
4 out of 5 stars.
