Back Roads to Belonging: Unexpected Paths to Finding Your Place and Your People

At one time or another, shifting seasons in family, friendships, employment, and communities will bring each of us face-to-face with the feeling of being on the outside looking in. Because we are made for connection, this will often lead us down one of two roads. Either we will hop on the popular but crowded highway that asks us to do whatever it takes to get noticed, or we'll stand still, paralyzed by the fear that we're not important, loveable, or worth other people's time and attention.

But what if there is another way? With an understanding voice that will speak into your own circumstances, Kristen Strong walks beside you along the less traveled but more satisfying third way--the back road way--to belonging: remaining in Christ and relaxing into the unique role God has for you. Along the way, you will learn simple, doable actions that not only will help you feel and know that you belong but will welcome others in as well.

From the Back Cover

"This book is your instant invitation to belonging. All you have to do is accept it."--Lisa-Jo Baker, bestselling author of Never Unfriended and Surprised by Motherhood

At one time or another, shifting seasons in family, friendships, employment, and communities will bring each of us face-to-face with the feeling of being on the outside looking in. Because we are made for connection, this will often lead us down one of two roads. Either we will hop on the popular but crowded highway that asks us to do whatever it takes to get noticed or we'll stand still, paralyzed by the fear that we're not important, lovable, or worth other people's time and attention.

But there is another way--the back road to belonging--and Kristen Strong is ready to walk it with you. With compassion and encouragement, she shows you how to remain in Christ and relax into the unique role God has for you. Along the way, you will learn simple, doable actions that will not only help you know that you belong but welcome others in as well.


"This book is an invitation to sit on a front porch swing with Kristen Strong--a woman who truly knows how to encourage and who understands what it's like to feel alone and finally find your heart's real home."--Holley Gerth, bestselling author of You're Already Amazing and Fiercehearted

"Back Roads to Belonging is a kindhearted field guide through the lowlands of longing. Kristen, our generous companion, is someone you'll want to keep near even after you've found your way."--Shannan Martin, author of The Ministry of Ordinary Places


Kristen Strong, author of Girl Meets Change, writes as a friend offering meaningful encouragement for each season of life so you can see it with more hope and less worry. She and her US Air Force veteran husband, David, have three children. Together this military family zigzagged across the country (and one ocean) several times before settling in Colorado Springs, Colorado. You can find her at kristenstrong.com, DaySpring's (in)courage, and on Instagram @kristenstrong.