Jenny Sanford's Book

I am not sure why I feel compelled to share my thoughts on Jenny Sanford's book, Staying True, but I do.

I can't remember the last time I read an autobiography. Heck, I can't remember the last time I read anything non-fiction that didn't have something to do with education. When I saw the Jenny Sanford book at the library, I thought, hmmm..... why not?

The book is not a literary masterpiece and it is a fairly quick read (maybe 4 hours), but it is a good read. I think the thing that initially piqued my curiosity about JS is the fact that she did not stand beside her husband when he admitted to the world that he was definitely not fulfilling his duties to SC, and obviously not his family, while he was with his "soul mate" in Argentina. I HATE to see those all too-often press conferences where the man admits his stupidity, I mean "indiscretions", while the wife stands beside him in her somber outfit with a consolatory expression. I want to scream when I see politicians continue to disgrace themselves and our country because they don't think with their brain. Then to watch the wives stand there........ uh! No, thanks....... I mean, if you want another woman, leave the one you have. If you have to pay for it, you need to think about why that is. If you can't live up to the expectations set as a moral leader, then don't run!! Of course, I know women are guilty of inappropriate actions, too, but most of those running our country are men. Anyway, I digress.......... back to the book.

Jenny Sanford shares the beginnings of the relationship with her husband, Mark. It is evident that she really loved him and she truly committed to him when she said "I Do". Interesting that she points out that Mark was not comfortable with some of the vows, including the remaining faithful part. Hindsight is 20/20. It explains her role as campaign manager and confidant of the rising politician. She was a champion for him, and he paid her back by emotionally deserting her and the family.

What it very evident in the book is Jenny is devoted to being a good mother. I believe that she was/is a good wife, too. She loves her boys and really puts their best interest first. She is courageous for standing up for what she knows is right. She didn't sit and smile and let her heart continued to be trampled on while her husband tells the country of his affair. She attended marriage counseling with her husband and even let him visit the mistress.... wow- she is a GOOD woman! In the end, though, what she wanted and could give was not enough. Such a sad thing that her husband could not see what he had in her.

Many of the biblical scriptures included in her book are so appropriate. You can tell she loves the Lord and she attempts to live by the Ten Commandments. I am not sure if the title of the book "Staying True" means she is staying true to her faith, her boys, or herself, but she seems to be doing all three. While many of us try to do the same thing and she should not be commended for this, I do applaud her. In this world of celebrity, she was forced to become one, but she did what was right and moral- not what would win a vote.

I wish Jenny and her four boys well and I know they will struggle. She will be okay, though, because she has what she needs- friends, family and Him.

Put the red pen away, friends- no corrections for this blogger! Again, it's my opinion, although no one asked!