Black Pearls Magazine Motivations. Christian Fiction. Christian Articles.

A Spiritual Blackout In The Land
by Pat G'Orge-Walker
Reprint August 10, 2009

As parents or guardians, finding ways to encourage your teenager to read may be difficult but it’s not an impossible task. Below are a few tips:

Show by example. Let your kids see you reading—newspaper, magazine, books, etc.

Find out your child’s interest. Find a way to connect his or her interest to reading material.

Take your teen to the library or book store. Ask your librarian for book suggestions. When at the book store, let your child wander the aisles and observe which area of books seem to hold their attention.

Buy a book on his or her favorite interest. If your teen loves video games, surprise him or her with a book on the characters of those video games. If your teen watches TV shows like Gossip Girl or That’s So Raven, find those books at the library or book store and surprise your teen with it. The key is to show your child they can find interesting things in between the pages of a book.

Encourage reading. For those of you whose teens may be reading material you deem inappropriate, try to explain to the teenager why you feel that way and offer alternate reads.

Read young adult books too and discuss. It’s a great way to start dialogue and could lead to ongoing communication with the teen in your life.

Shelia M. Goss is the author of the young adult series – The Lip Gloss Chronicles and six women’s fiction books.

The Ultimate Test by Shelia M. Goss -- Kensington Books Jun 2009 © ISBN 1601621868
Splitsville by Shelia M. Goss -- Kensington Books Oct 2009 © ISBN 1601621884
Paper Thin by Shelia M. Goss -- Spring 2010

Shelia E. Lipsey is a multi-award winning author. She is a 2009 SORMAG Readers’ Choice Award Recipient, and Black Pearls 2009 Top Book Awards Recipient. She is the author of Into Each Life, Sinsatiable and My Son’s Wife. Beautiful Ugly is Lipsey’s fourth novel. Lipsey was also awarded 2008 Author of the Year by Conversations Books Club, a Top Shelf Award recipient of Urban Reviews and 2007 SORMAG Readers’ Choice Award Recipient.

Ella: Finish this sentence- My writing offers the following legacy to future readers.
Words in print can never be taken away, even after our physical bodies have gone on eternally. As much as I am sorrowful about the recent deaths of authors such as E. Lynn Harris and the first AA Romance Novelist, Elsie B. Washington, there works will forever live on. My books are my legacy. They not only showcase my talent to the world, but they will forever linger in the lives of my children, grandchildren and on and on. I envision that perhaps one day after I have met my demise, that someone, somewhere, in the distant future will pick up a book and they will note the author is Shelia E. Lipsey.

From one generation to the next, words live. From one generation to the next, words change lives. From one generation to the next, our words speak volumes about the past, present and future. Words are powerful. They are even more powerful when they are written. That’s why the Bible and what God says inside the Bible can never be taken away or destroyed. It is written, God says, man shall not live by bread alone. Even God uses the word written. God says my tongue is the pen of a ready writer. The word of God also says "Write the vision, and make it plain on tablets, that he who runs may read it. I write not only because I have to write because it is God’s gift and purpose to me and for me, but I write because there are so many thoughts, feelings, and emotions inside of me that are eager to give birth. Everyone leaves a legacy. Everyone has a choice whether the legacy they leave for the future is one that will positively or negatively impact families, loved ones and the world. I choose to leave a legacy of the redeeming love, mercy and grace of Jesus Christ.

Ella: Introduce us to your book, Beautiful Ugly.
Beautiful Ugly is the story of three close friends. Each one of them has life challenges, and each of them love, encourage and support each other through the good and the bad. Sometimes we look in the mirror, like Layla does in Beautiful Ugly, and we see an ugly image of ourselves. We fail to see the beauty that God has created. Or we may be like Envy, whose life is based on her name. She struggles with who she really is and why the person she sees in the mirror is not the beautiful, intelligent, smart woman that God made her to be. Instead she sees a young woman who has deep, dark secrets that only she and God know about.
As for Kacie, she equates beauty to having a man. She looks in the mirror and she sees a physically handicapped woman with a bad limp, and six children with six different baby daddies. Her vision of herself is one of low self-esteem and self-worth. How do they face the problems of life? How do they look at themselves and see that they are all wonderful creatures designed by God. When will they learn that beauty comes in so many different ways that even the human eye cannot conceive? Three friends struggle to learn their true identity that only God can define for them.

Ella: Share with us your message and the main characters.
The main characters in Beautiful Ugly are three, 30 year old women. They have been good friends for eleven years. There is Layla Hobbs, who has a singing voice that could easily give Jennifer Hudson a run for the money. She is the lead singer in her church choir, but she battles some serious issues over her size. Envy Wilson is a beautiful, intelligent successful business woman, who is also very promiscuous, something her friends do not know about her. She also has a deep, dark secret that haunts her life. Kacie Mayweather, is a part time cashier, lives on Section 8 and has six children by six different men. She has real self-esteem issues because of her physical disability of cerebral palsy. The message in Beautiful Ugly can only be determined by the person who reads the book and dares to stand before the mirror and see themselves for who they are and for how God created them, which is fearfully and wonderfully made.

Ella: Are your characters from the portrayal of real people?
Yes, my stories are from the portrayal of real people because that is the way I write. I write about every day people, so that somewhere, someone will pick up one of my novels and be able to identify with someone in the book, or know of someone like my characters. That is the essence of my gift of writing. I call it perfect stories about imperfect people.

Ella: What inspired you to write this story?
I write stories according to what God places in my spirit to write. At first, a title is given to me, and from that point, God orchestrates the words on the pages. Beautiful Ugly is such an everyday story for many women in the world today. We all have issues of some kind with our outward appearances whether we consider ourselves fine, thick or ugly and fat. Society just about bases everything on outward appearances, which is not the way it should be. Unfortunately, it is what it is; the world is warped when it comes to defining the difference in Beauty and Ugly.

Ella: What issues in today's society have you addressed in the book?
Beautiful Ugly addresses issues of how the world views individuals based on outward appearances. It discusses issues of low self-esteem, self-consciousness, secrets that we hide from the closest of friends and families, and the importance of loving one’s self.
Ella: What did you hope to accomplish by writing this particular story?
What I hoped to accomplish is for those who reader Beautiful Ugly will close the pages of the book and be drawn toward their own inner beauty. I hope that those who do not like the person standing in the mirror, will read Beautiful Ugly and then see the wondrous, unique individual God Himself created him/her to be.

Ella: How difficult was it to complete the novel?
Beautiful Ugly, surprisingly was not difficult to write. Having a physical disability of my own, I was easily able to get into the lives of my characters. I faced many of the same type of problems and issues they have; not all of them, but I can say that looking around today, I saw something of my characters in everyone my path crosses.

Ella: Why did you decide to pick the Christian fiction genre for your book?
I did not pick Christian fiction as my genre. Christian fiction picked me. When I self published my first novel back in 2000, I called it inspirational because at that time there was no such thing as AA Christian fiction, at least not that I recall. I started out with the great fiction authors like Victoria Christopher Murray, Vanessa Griggs and Jacqueline Thomas. They have taken their writings to a much higher level and enjoyed tremendous success. Knowing and seeing how God has prospered them in their genre of writing, gives me hope to rise to their level of greatness and beyond.

Ella: What is your most valuable lesson about the publishing industry?
The publishing industry can afford to be very choosy about who they offer a book deal. Today, the AA market and non AA markets too, are bombarded with a flood of authors. It is an industry that I believe will forever remain, and I believe we will see an even larger influx of self published authors coming on the literary scene.

Ella: What writers inspire you and why?
I am a J. California Cooper fan because her writing is so pure. What I mean by pure is that she is able to weave a story that compels readers to her character(s). She is one that will go down in the great history of literature and be talked about in years to come like other great authors such as Faulkner, Washington, Walker, Morrison and so many more.

Ella: Share with us your latest news, awards or upcoming book releases.
Some of my latest news is that I was awarded several times over, the 2009 SORMAG Readers’ Choice Award. I was also awarded the prestigious 2009 Black Pearls Top Book Awards. Beautiful Ugly will be available nationwide August 1, 2009. Also the sequel to My Son’s Wife will be released September 2010 and the title is My Son’s ex-Wife-The Aftermath.

You can contact Shelia E. Lipsey at: shelialipsey@yahoo.com. You can learn more about me by visiting my website www.shelialipsey.com. All books are available in bookstores nationwide as well as online at sites such as Amazon.com; BN.com; Target.com; Wal-mart.com; Black Expressions.

Marian L. Thomas resides in Atlanta , Georgia. Debuted her fiction title Color Me Jazzmyne in February 2009. Received her Bachelor degree in Business Communications and graduated Magna Cum Laude. Was featured in Atlanta Skirt! Magazine as one of Atlanta 's 9to5 Business Women in the Media field. CrossRoadsNews, an East Metro Atlanta paper, recently graced the Author with a feature story.

Ella: Tell us about your passion for writing. What drives you? What impact do you want your book to make?
“Passion is a hard word to describe because it's like describing what it feels like to have something move you so much that you can't help but act upon it... are their real words for that? For me, writing is more of a release from reality, a way to express the obvious using melodious tones that soothe the reader and allows them to live in a world other than their own. That is my goal when writing. That is what drives me.”

Ella: Finish this sentence- My writing offers the following legacy to future readers... "
"A good story. People write for all sorts of reasons but I want my legacy of writing to be remembered for the good story that it shares with it's readers."

Ella: Introduce us to your book, Color Me Jazzmyne.
"Child abuse, rape, struggling to make money to live---these are all the things that women have gone through at least once in their lifetime. When a father's touch is no longer innocent, how do you find the courage to forgive? We all have many colors that make up our emotions either from the past, present or future. Color Me Jazzmyne takes each reader on a journey through the life of Naya Mona, a jazz singer who is raped by her father, abused by her friends and struggling to find peace. In the tale she is forced to answer the question...what color is Jazzmyne as she recounts her life to a son whom she never got a chance to name. How do you tell your son that your father is his? She has a voice that once on stage, commands the attention of her listeners and changes her from Naya Mona to Jazzmyne, the jazz singer."

Ella: Are your characters from the portrayal of real people?
"Yes, Naya is clearly a reflection of the many women that I have met over the years and the struggles that they have had to overcome. Misty represents all the "so-called" friends in our lives that attach themselves to us only to accomplish their own desires. Chris is more of what I call the "lifetime husband". He represents the compassion and love that we as women need, want and deserve."

Ella: What inspired you to write this story, at this time?
"Life. I know that sounds rather obvious but it's a reality that often makes for a good story that encourages, motivates and inspires us to either heal, reflect or forgive."

Ella: What major issues in today's society have you addressed in the book?
"Rape is often the "hush" word in our lives. It's the thing that we prefer to put into the closet of other skeletons that we pray no one has the key to. Child abuse often occurs at a young age and more than often it is done by someone that is very close---a family member or friend of the family. It's a difficult thing to get over, it's even more difficult to explain. According to one statistic.... one out of every six women will be raped over their lifetime and 73% of all rape victims know their assailants. In fact, studies have shown that 60% of all sexual assaults are not reported."

Ella: What did you hope to accomplish by writing this particular story?
"I hope that women who read this book and have gone through something similar will find the courage to reach out and talk to someone about it."

Ella: How difficult was it to complete the novel, Color Me Jazzmyne?
"It took over 20 years to finally get the idea of Color Me Jazzmyne out of my head and into a book but once I really got into the story, it was like someone lit a fire under the tips of my fingernails and I just had to move faster and faster to get it out. I thank all who played a role in helping to light that flame."

Ella: Did you self-publish? How difficult was it to find a publisher to pick up your novel?
"When you write something that has taken on part of who you are, you want to own it--not "lease it out". No one will believe in your story like you do. No one will own it, live it or tell it...like you can. I never went to a publishing company, I simply started my own. I knew from the beginning this was going to be my story from beginning to end. My book is under my middle names ( I have two believe it or not) and my company is under my first name so that I keep them separate. When you self-publish, it is vital that you understand that when you're an Author you speak as one but when it comes to business--that requires a totally different hat. I do plan to publish other titles other than my own but I will do so with the Author from the beginning to the end and I will treat their story as if it were my own. I will make it a part of me."

Ella: Why did you decide to pick the Contemporary fiction genre for Color Me Jazzmyne?
"Contemporary fiction with a slight touch of romance and a couple spoonfuls of drama is my genre. All the colors that represent who I am in so many aspects of my life."

Ella: What is your most valuable lesson about the publishing industry?
"That fiction gets very little love so you have to cultivate it. It's easy to read "how-to books" and don't get me wrong they serve a purpose but reading the experiences of life through the eyes of a character that grips onto your inner-self and never lets go until you close the book...that's priceless."

Ella: What writers inspire you and why?
"Of course Maya Angelou is a phenomenal writer. Her writing style doesn't just lift up a person when they open the page but it sings to you. It gets your head moving and your heart grooving to a whole new beat of reading."

Ella: Share with us your latest news, awards or upcoming book releases.
"I am currently working on my second release. I hope to have it out and into the hands of readers by March 2010."

Ella: Links to contact Marian L. Thomas:
Publishing Company: http://www.lbpublishingco.com
Author's Website: http://www.marianlthomas.com

Purchase Color Me Jazzmyne:
Amazon.com
Barnes & Noble.com
Target.com
Kindle Reader

Bookstores in Atlanta:
Borders in Atlanta, Georgia : Kennsew, Parkway-Pointe, Snellville

“Remember this! In the last days there will be many troubles, because people will love themselves, love money, brag, and be proud. They will say evil things against others and will not obey their parents or be thankful or be the kind of people God wants. They will not love others, will refuse to forgive, will gossip, and will not control themselves. They will be cruel, will hate what is good, will turn against their friends, and will do foolish things without thinking. They will be conceited, will love pleasure instead of God, and will act as if they serve God but will not have his power.” II Timothy 3:1-5 New Century Version

We as a nation of people are facing some perilous and terrifying times. Yet, in spite of the hour in which we live, for the people of God it is a time of great opportunities and advancements. It is in times like these that our faith as a people must be stronger than ever before. Although we are not exempt from the elements of life, the changing of the seasons and times, there is a difference between us surviving the crisis or succumbing to the pressure.

This is the greatest hour for the church to shine, rise and be heard. When the world is regressing and going under, God will move His people forward, causing His people to progress and flourish. “Now a new king arose over Egypt who did not know Joseph. He said to his people, Behold, the Israelites are too many and too mighty for us and they outnumber us both in people and in strength]. Come, let us deal shrewdly with them, lest they multiply more and, should war befall us, they join our enemies, fight against us, and escape out of the land. So they set over [the Israelites] taskmasters to afflict and oppress them with [increased] burdens. And [the Israelites] built Pithom and Rameses as store cities for Pharaoh. But the more [the Egyptians] oppressed them, the more they multiplied and expanded, so that [the Egyptians] were vexed and alarmed because of the Israelites.” Exodus 1:8-12 Amplified

During these rough economic times, it is God who will stabilize us and cause us to increase, prosper and propel in the worst conditions. The world is in a major crisis, and the pressure is even on us to compromise our faith, but we must remember as the children of Israel grew under pressure, hardship and oppression, we to will grow, multiply and increase as long as we believe by faith that God will see us through.

Our faith in Christ will triumph over all. “For whatever is born of God is victorious over the world; and this is the victory that conquers the world, even our faith.” I John 5:4 Amplified

By faith you can conquer every mountain, face every problem, and overcome every adversity. By faith you can bounce back when people counted you out; by faith God can restore your health, family, bad credit, erase debt, reverse foreclosure, remove cancer, diabetes, liver disorder, put love back in a marriage, drive out rebellion and put your house in order.

By faith you can ride through the rages of life, walk through turbulence, test, and dangerous situations without any evidence of being scared. By faith you can defeat worry, doubt and fear. There is absolutely nothing faith can not do!

Written by Paulette Harper, Minister
Author of That Was Then, This Is Now This Broken Vessel Restored
Visit her on www.bvministry.org

My faith in God has helped me make the transition from marriage to becoming single. I am an independent, focused and a purpose driven woman. Did this happen over night? No, it took me some time to get to this point in my life. Though terrifying and frightening moments, would have defeated me, I learned that I was created to survive every crisis, disappointment and dilemma with Christ.

Independent and self sufficient because of Christ sufficiency, “Not that we are sufficient of our own selves to think of anything as being from ourselves, but our sufficiency is from God” (II Corn 3:5 NKJV)

By faith I was determined to push my self even when I wanted to collapse from the pressure. I stand poised today with dignity as the triumphant woman of God.

Those that thought I wouldn’t make it, God proved them wrong. Those that laid a trap for me to fail and stumble, well I did fall, and I fell forward. I’ve advanced and stepped over the hurdles and pitfalls.

Surviving the crisis takes endurance. You must hold your head up and rise above your circumstances and conditions and soar like the eagles. Shake off the shame, the humiliation, and the embarrassment, wipe away the tears because your faith in God will propel you to achieve and advance beyond your wildest hopes, imagination and dreams.

I’m reminded of a story in the bible with the woman who touched the hem of Jesus garment. Believing for healing and restoration she earnestly fought her way through the crowds of the self-righteous people. No doubt they looked at her with eyes of reproach, disgust and contempt. But nevertheless, her focus was not on her condition or what people were saying or what they thought about her; but the center of her attention was on Christ, the Messiah, the one who came to set people free from years of bondage and slavery. “You know the story of what happened in Judea . It began in Galilee after John preached a total life-change. Then Jesus arrived from Nazareth , anointed by God with the Holy Spirit, ready for action. He went through the country helping people and healing everyone who was beaten down by the Devil. He was able to do all this because God was with him.” Act 10:38 The Message

Just as this woman lived in despair, we are living in calamitous times as well. Enormous times of uncertainties, catastrophic and heartache. Many people are facing overwhelming and insurmountable odds and facing difficulties with no answer in sight.

he woman with the issue of blood knew whom her source of peace, healing and wholeness would come from. As she moved forward in the confidence and reliance on Him all she needed to do was touch the hem of His garment, let that be our example.

When everyone else seems to be perishing under the pressure we will survive the crisis because our faith is not contingent on us making a way for ourselves, or trying to figure out how our needs are going to be met; surviving the crisis, the emergencies and the crucial times are solely based on our complete confidence, conviction and reliance on the one who controls the universe. “Examine and see how good the Lord is. Happy is the person who trusts Him. You, who belong to the Lord, fear Him! Those who fear Him will have everything they need.” Psalm 34:8-9 NCV

Once realizing that my true source of hope, joy and recovery was only in Christ, I bravely accepted the lot that was given to me and today I can boldly say I stand strong, vibrant and full of purpose because of Christ the one who felt me touch the hem of His garment.

“Now thanks be unto God, which always causes us to triumph in Christ.” II Corinthians 5:14 KJV

Written by Paulette Harper, Minister
Author of That Was Then, This Is Now This Broken Vessel Restored
Visit her on www.bvministry.org
http:// www.christianauthorspace.com/pauletteharper

Book Title: That Was Then, This Is Now This Broken Vessel Restored
By Paulette Harper, Inspirational Speaker, Author

"How could God have a purpose for me amidst this mess? Why do such bad things happen to good people? If you've recently asked yourself these questions, Paulette Harper's That was Then, This is Now has the answers. Struggling to recover from a broken marriage and disappointed dreams, Paulette Harper gropes for meaning and understanding, and through her searching, God reveals Himself to her in ways she never before imagined possible. By sharing her struggles with transparency, she illustrates how a heart attitude of surrender allows God to use a broken vessel for His ultimate plans of glory. That was Then, This is Now ministers to hurting hearts in every season of life, reminding them that God restores shattered lives, intent on using them for His sovereign purposes."

ISBN: 10~1604625546
ISBN: 13~9781604625547
Publisher: Tate Publishing & Enterprises
Available on: digital, e-book, CD

Also available from Amazon.com, TatePublishing.com, BarnesandNoble.com, BAMM.com, and your local bookstore.

Rachel Berry is blessed to be a wife, mother, grandmother, author & poet, motivational speaker, radio talk show host, mentor, and community leader. Rachel is the founder and president of Black Pearls United INC. (an African American sister-circle) founded in 2000. Berry is an alumni of Toastmasters International where she earned her CTM and awarded as Toastmaster of the Year.

Ella: Why do you write?
My passion for writing started as a child and was ignited by my mother who was and still is a story teller. Writing has always been a form of expression and therapy for me. Living, life's experiences, and what makes people tick are what continues to energize my soul.

Ella: What drives you?
The love for words and their power and how they can create or deflate a world excites me, and I love it. Also being able to express to the world my opinions or another way of looking at things motivates my writing too. I don't know what I'd do if I couldn't write.

Ella: What impact do you want your book to make on the readers?
My love for the "human story," - life lived so many different ways, and how decisions that we all make not only impacts us but those we love is the message I want to portray in this story. I also want people to remember that no matter what challenges we all go through there are lessons to be learned and living and loving still to do after-wards.

Ella:   Finish this sentence- My writing offers the following legacy to future readers...
My writing offers the following legacy to future readers... the power of visual thought. In my stories and poems I try to guide the readers through words to envision the particular thought or situation that I am presenting to them. Words have so much power and vision and together they can take a person, a mind, or a life to new levels never experienced or imagined. When someone "sees" what you're saying in their minds eye or you reach their heart, even if they don't agree you the writer has had a chance to share themselves - which to me is one of the biggest blessings of writing.

Ella: Please introduce us to your new book 'Family Pictures'
Family Pictures takes place in Stone Mountain Georgia and is about two women: Twenty-nine year old Regal Sommers -a single-mother who has finally met the man of her dreams and is engaged to marry him when her aunt sends for her on the day of her engagement party; letting her know she has a secret that needs to be divulged before she takes the big step. Fifty-five year old Emma Jean, Regal's aunt and the second main character, is a recovering alcoholic and a woman who has kept herself secluded in her house for five years. She's been living with a few secrets all her life that she feels she must reveal before Regal gets married. Regal finds herself dealing with weight issues, a relationship possibly in jeopardy because of family secrets, a manipulating mother, a conniving and jealous cousin, a son's imaginary friend, the return of an old lover, and so much more as she and Emma Jean deal with the ups and downs of those people they call family. Readers will have a look inside of a typical family with many personalities and situations. But through this story the readers will also be reminded that: through all of our challenges and celebrations, lessons, unconditional love, and forgiveness is learned; including the greatest lesson of all - that life is as big or as small as you make it.

Ella: Are your characters from the portrayal of real people?
No, but certain mannerisms or character traits come from people from my past or that I've been in contact with

Ella: What inspired you to write this story?
I've always been intrigued by family pictures. We all have them. Smiling family photos. But there's a story behind every one. Some type of challenge and celebration lace the face and life of each person in the picture. This story brings those situations to life.

Ella:   What issues in today's society have you addressed in the book?
I've addressed several. Infidelity, personal weight struggles, crimes against women; such as rape, single-parenting, mental health issues, child molestation, hate, insecurity, and much more

Ella:   What did you hope to accomplish by writing this particular story?
We all have a family- whether we like them or not. I wanted to share with the readers that family: good and bad bring lessons to us all. Each person sits in a different chair wielding unique power, opinions, desires and decisions. But somehow our journeys are intertwined and we affect each other; whether we intend to or not. Some people will always be good for our soul, others are toxic and we have to keep them at a distance - even if we love them.

Ella: Did you self-publish? How difficult was it to complete the novel?
Yes, I ended up self-publishing after shopping the book for about three years. I had a few bites but no swallows. But that's the writing life. I don't feel it was difficult. My characters had a strong presence and told me where and what they were going to do. It was fun meeting them and living with them, I was often surprised about where a character was headed. I was just a tool to get the story out.

Ella:   Why did you decide to pick the mainstream genre for your book?
Because this story is vibrated by murder, deceit, jealousy, romance, suspense and fantasy. It reeks of many accounts in the bank of life.

Ella:   What is your most valuable lesson about the publishing industry?
There is so much to learn. It's a continuous lesson and every writer needs to be aware of what's new and fading. Each book has a long journey between conception and birth.

Ella:   What writers inspire you and why?
Eric Jerome Dickey, Maya Angelou, Alice Walker...oh god don't get me started. There are so many. And the common denominator is that they are all full of creative personality. They stroke your heart and vision through words.

Ella:   Share with us your latest news, awards or upcoming book releases
Well, I've been featured on ArtistFirst and Blog Talk Radio. I've been extended other interviews, and I'm making my way around town locally. I have a few works in progress which include another chapbook of poetry, a short story compilation, and my second novel I plan to release the winter of 2010 entitled 'Between The Tears And The Laughter.'

Contact Info & Links for Rachel Berry

E-mail
rachelwrites2@yahoo.com

Personal website:
http://www.RachelBerry.webs.com

Book Seller Links
http://www.lulu.com/RachelBerry
http://www.Amazon.com
http://www.Ebay.com

Book Trailer
http://www.YouTube.com/wordfairy4u

Radio Talk Show
http://www.BlogTalkRadio.com/Lady-Serenity

Black Pearls United INC. - sister-circle
http://www.blackpearlsunited.org

Dr. Cheryl Wilson-Bridges Delivers Powerful First Writing Entitled Levite Praise: God’s Biblical Design for Praise and Worship. Listen to the interview with Ella Curry, president of EDC Creations

Dr. Wilson-Bridges, minister of music at the Community Praise Center in Alexandria, VA and the recipient of a Master of Arts in Practical Theology and Worship and a Doctorate in Strategic Leadership, both from Regent University, rediscovers the purpose of praise and worship in her new book Levite Praise. Although many agree that praise and worship plays a crucial role in Christian church services, few agree about the method. Levite Praise digs into the Scriptures to help worship leaders and worshipers develop a full understanding of what it means to direct and take part in God’s perfect model for praise and worship.

For Cheryl Wilson-Bridges, DSL—Minister of Music at Community Praise Center (CPC) Church, Alexandria, Virginia—praise, honor, and devotion are not just powerful definitions for worship, they define the way she lives her life. Ask her to identify her spiritual springboard and she will say, without hesitation, Matthew 6:33, Seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things will be added unto you. This God-given directive guides her life and, through the Holy Spirit, empowers her to preach, minister, lead, and serve. Author's website: www.LevitePraise.com

The Path to Ministry
Dr. Wilson-Bridges’ rich heritage extends from the shores of the Caribbean paradise Trinidad and Tobago to the culturally diverse borough of Queens, New York, the place of her birth, and Long Island where her gift of singing was nurtured in the Seventh-day Adventist church and school systems. Her path to music ministry began in 1985 as a tenor with the female contemporary gospel group, Reconciled. This experience allowed her to minister to thousands and witness first hand that music is a powerful tool of worship and evangelism. The impact of this ministry propelled her into the journey that resulted in the call that has gripped her life—the call to worship ministry.

Intimate Conversation with Ella Curry of EDC Creations

Ella: What inspired you to write this story?
CWB: The writing of Levite Praise was a plan of God from the very onset. Even though from my childhood I have always been passionate about music and worship, I had no inclination or desire to write a book especially not a book on spiritual worship and musical leadership like Levite Praise. But on May 8, 2004 as I sat in the graduation ceremony at Regent University waiting to receive my Master of Arts Degree in Practical Theology and Worship, I was listening to the commencement address and silently praying in my heart. I was petitioning God to tell me His plan for my life and asking Him where I would go from here. In that moment, during the graduation address, God gave me a direct message that I wrote down in my Franklin palm PDA. God said, you will write a book and the title of it will be Levite Praise: God’s Biblical Design for Praise and Worship. I became overwhelmed and very emotional. I was also confused and perplexed. Write a book? I thought to myself, what…why? But in obedience I wrote the message down and continued to rewrite it in my journals, and keep it with me as the years progressed. It was in my third year of doctoral studies at Regent University that I was made aware that our final capstone project could take several tracks. So I was not surprised when I was informed that one of the tracks was to complete a book manuscript. Naturally, that was track I selected and I already knew my project topic and manuscript title. It was this work for the completion of my Doctorate Degree in Strategic Leadership that is the contents of the book published by Creation House a Stang Company. That was God’s marvelous plan for writing the book Levite Praise: God’s Biblical Design for Praise and Worship.

Ella: What issues in today's society have you addressed in the book?
CWB: Today, leadership is a crucial issue that affects all levels of our society. Strong leaders with integrity who follow a moral imperative can shape cultures and transform societies. On the contrary the lack of leadership can conquer a nation. Most corporate bodies in both secular and sacred communities recognize the importance of leadership. Yet it is my belief that the church has neglected to assign the same spiritual leadership principles and pastoral responsibilities that are ascribed to the pulpit to ministry of musical praise and worship. I believe that God has instructed his church in worship leadership that combines spiritual leadership with musical praise and worship. However our failure to function effectively and obediently lies in our lack of understanding and inability to apply God’s instructions to his church. Levite Praise: God’s Biblical Design for Praise and Worship offers an essential, practical, and structural leadership outline for today’s musical praise and worship that is derived from my understanding of God’s biblical principles outlined in Scripture.

Ella: What is your most valuable lesson about the publishing industry?
CWB: As a brand new author I have a limited amount of publishing experience; even so I have learned a valuable lesson. I have learned that you should endeavor to sign with a publisher that shares your values, goals, and vision. As a Christian author I have a ministry calling that guides the depth and breath of my writing. I feel led to address certain topics and convey messages that are provocative and transformational. To be successful, my publisher and I have to work as a God-inspired, cohesive team. We both have to be able to grasp the mission and vision of my writing as it pertains to the larger audience. We have to work diligently to package and present this message so that readers will benefit from the knowledge and experiences God has allowed me to gain in ministry. Without Spirit-led teamwork publishing presents a challenge that could reap minimal rewards.

Ella: What did you hope to accomplish by writing this particular story?
CWB: I hope that praise and worship leaders around the globe will redirect their focus from merely preparing the music of worship to pleasing the God of worship. I pray that Levite Praise will foster a new breed of worshipers who let God’s Word lead them to enrich and evangelize people though the gift of music. I believe that the scriptures in Levite Praise will equip worship leaders and guide worshiper as they acquaint themselves with God’s call to spiritual leadership. I am convinced that if we engage in true biblical worship today’s praise and worship leaders will become humble servants and the only stars that will hold true meaning will be the stars in their heavenly crowns.

Ella: Share with us your latest news, awards or upcoming book releases.
CWB: I just garnered the 2009 Outstanding Minister of Music Award by the Guild of Adventist Musicians an is currently planning a multi-city book tour.

Creation House Publication Takes The Praise & Worship Lover On An Inspiring Biblical Journey

What does God desire in our praise and worship? Dr. Cheryl Wilson-Bridges answers that provocative question in the pages of her brand new book, Levite Praise. Published by Creation House, the book views praise and worship from a uniquely biblical perspective as it delves through the Scripture searching the answers to three questions: 1) What does God desire? 2) What does God require; and 3) How should we aspire?

Book: Levite Praise
ISBN: 978-1-59979-722-9; Christian book
Targeted to praise and worship leaders, pastors, gospel artists, church lay people and others seeking to know more about praise and worship. Focus is a biblical explanation of praise and worship.

Published by Creation House (Strang Communication); available at following Retail Outlets: Christian and Mainstream Retail Stores, and online at Amazon.com, BarnesandNoble.com, BooksAMillion.com, Walmart.com and Target.com.

Dr. Wilson-Bridges is also a rotational pulpit pastor and ordained elder at CPC, delivering the word with power and conviction. She has conducted worship seminars for congregations in Baltimore, MD; Berrien Springs, MI; Boston, MA; Atlanta, GA; London, England; and the island of Martinique; and has designed a five-part seminar series on the organizational design and application of the Levitical priestly order for the contemporary church.

Equipped to Serve
In May 2004, she received her Master of Arts degree in Practical Theology and Worship from Regent University’s School of Divinity. In May 2008, she received her Doctorate in Strategic Leadership with an emphasis in Worship Leadership from Regent University’s School of Global Leadership and Entrepreneurship. In August 2009, she released her book, Levite Praise: God’s Biblical Design for Praise and Worship published by Creation House (Strang Communications).

As a clinician, she facilitates seminars in the Levite Praise series including Levite Praise: God's Biblical Design for Praise & Worship, Music Majesty or Mayhem?, Hear From Heaven: The 12 Principles of Heavenly Worship, Praise Presence: Unleashing the Power of Praise & Worship, Practical Praise: Implementing the Premises of Levite Praise and Questions and Answers on Levite Praise. In May 2009, she was chosen as the 2009 Winner of the Outstanding Minister of Music Award by the Guild of Adventist Musicians. She is supported in God’s call by her husband, Conrad, and son, Darius. They believe that God has called her to be a vessel through which He will create a sea of worshipers. Author's website: www.LevitePraise.com

To arrange publicity or speaking engagements, contact:
Andrea R. Williams, President Tehillah Enterprises, LLC
www.TehillahEnterprisesPR.com
www.DCGospelNewsUpdate.com
Andrea@TehillahEnterprisesPR.com

A literary journalist and publicist since 2001, Dee Stewart's writings have appeared in Precious Times, Romantic Times Magazines and Mosaic Literary Journal. Her work focuses on fiction, popular culture, and New media. She is the owner of DeeGospel PR (clients: Reshonda Tate Billingsley and more) and lives in Atlanta, GA. Visit her at www.christianfiction.blogspot.com

Ella: Introduce us to your company Dee. What exactly does your company do for the client or the community?
DeeGospel PR is an entertainment and literary PR boutique based in Atlanta, but with clientele nationwide. DGP houses a speaker's bureau for event planners and churches, who seek media and public speaking trained authors, thespians, motivational speakers, acting and music workshop leaders, and bloggers. We also house a membership site that supports literary entrepreneurs who need group coaching, PR helpdesk, social media design strategy and book marketing consultation.

DeeGospel PR also provides ala carte marketing support (press release generation, social media release optimization, online newsroom creation and management, public relations campaign strategy and creation, media outreach and pitching, events management, crisis communication management, book club crowd sourcing, book tour building and management, book marketing plan creation, online shopping product launch strategy planning. DGP isn't just traditional public relations and media outreach planning and strategy, but the knowledge to incorporate New Media relations effectively alongside a client's marketing campaign. We believe in helping our clients locate and create relationships with those who want what they can provide.

If you plan to come to Atlanta, you can work with me and Mocha Readers Books (Rhonda Bogan) on not only creating a dynamic, buzz worthy book event, but an Essence Magazine reported event as well. Past clientele: the 2009 For Sisters Only Charlotte, the 2009 Faith and Fiction Retreat, the 2009 Blogalicious Conferenvce, the 2009 Charlotte Literary Festival, authors: Tiffany L. Warren (Grand Central,) Nikki Carter (YA, Kensington,) Sherri L. Lewis, Dwan Abrams, Shana Burton, Ashea Goldson, Sherryl Kiser Jackson (all of Urban/Kensington,) Xavier Knight (Grand Central,) Bonnie Hopkins (Walk Worthy Press,) Motivational Speakers: Jordan Rogers (Real Men Revolution,) Kendall Hunter (GMA, Miami Mass Choir, Jazz Vincent (The Charlotte Literary Festival,) Ron Hudson (NLP, ) and many others. That's just 2009.

Ella: Did your company change the way consumers were previously taught to think? Favorite business quote is below.
"It must be remembered that there is nothing more difficult to plan, more doubtful of success nor more dangerous to manage than the creation of a new system. For the initiator has the enmity of all who profit by the preservation of the old institution and merely lukewarm defenders in those who would gain by the new one." - Nicolo Machiavelli

Yes, many authors come to me thinking that all they need is a press kit, a few in-store event bookings, a feature in a magazine and a Facebook fan page and that's all book marketing is. What I do at DGP is help my clients understand brand management and retention. Me, alongside my DGP network peers work together to give clients a better understanding of where they fit in the current marketplace and what it takes to have longevity. Moreover, I've taught authors, publicists and publishing houses the power of social media, and that it's not just about adding followers, but building relationships across platforms with an ultimate goal to get your product across the kitchen table of as many households as possible who wants what the client can provide. Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn are great social media tools, but if you do not know how to design your Social Media Platform effectively you will ruin yourself before you get started.

Ella: How did you get your start in this business, DeeGospel PR?
Wayne Sutton approached me seven years ago about providing commercial fiction reviews. At the time I was writing literary commentary and criticism for Mosaic and other college level literary reviews, but had begun reading commercial Christian Fiction and had fallen in love with it. I tried to feature these books in newspapers and magazines that I edited or freelanced, but couldn't because whom I wrote for didn't match the audience, so I began blogging [with my editors permission] and was introduced to a larger world of commercial publishing. BET books consulted with me about some of their authors, Bethany House publishers consulted me about manuscripts they were thinking of acquiring...I began to have deeper conversations with bookstore distributors, publishing houses, publicists about the industry and decided to share some of what I learned on the blog. But information like marketing and what publishers want and readers crave I hadn't thought about packaging that together and promoting authors. Instead I share the information with my writing friends, who later encouraged me to hang out my shingle as a public relations strategist. I did that in 2008. Can you believe that it took me that long?

Ella: Did you have any formal business training?
Yes, I've worked in PR, Brand Management, Journalist in corporate life before I had my daughter in 2000. Companies I supported were: The Coca Cola Company, Coke USA's Department of Intellectual Property, The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) School of Adolescent Health, Rejoice Atlanta News, Rejoice Gospel Radio 102.7 FM (Valdosta, GA,) Romantic Times Magazine, and the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta, GA for Atlanta Heritage Row.

Ella: What separates you and your firm from the competition?
My traditional public relations background, national media contacts, and my ability to design social media to buttress a client's marketing campaign. I was on Twitter in BETA before it became a catch phrase, and have written White Papers on how to use Twitter, Facebook, BlogTalkRadio, LinkedIn and other Social Media Platforms strategically for business for the past two years. For the past five years I've spoken and written about how to SEO optimize blogs, online bookstore creation and management, and proper online etiquette. I provide media training for my clients and will not book them until they are trained.

I know how to start a conversation online and end it across a bookclub table. Book Marketers and Social Media Designers come to me to learn how to understand online marketing better. I think what separates me from my peers the most is I believe planning, strategy and research. I will not start a campaign until I know where the client's audience is.

Moreover, I work with Rhonda Bogan, Pam Perry, you-Ella Curry, Marina Woods, Ty Moody, and other PR pros on helping you get your book out. There are no competitors in my mind, only friends I can lean on.

Ella:   How would you describe your experience as a Entrepreneur?
It's fun and challenging. I get to have my own hours, but sometimes can't control my income. This economy has effected the PR industry just as much as anyone else. You have to be creative and think constantly about finding new streams of income that supports your business. Since I'm also physically challenged with three chronic illnesses it is a fine balance between business, home, and health.

Ella:   What do you like most about your profession?
Working alongside an author who will trust you with their vision, then watch readers connect with them during the process. I love that!

Ella: What is your biggest challenge in business? How did you overcome it?
My biggest challenge is servicing good friends. Normally I don't charge them what I charge others. However, they expect me to work three times more than those who've worked with them in the past. Sometimes friends--for the sake of friendship-- want be transparent and share their challenges with your current contract, which makes it hard to satisfy your friend client if you don't know that their is a problem to be fixed. It is a double edged sword I've been working around. That is why I have created the group coaching sessions so that I can continue to help them at a very cheap rate, but motivate them to take ownership of their writing business, while utilizing the knowledge and sometimes opportunities that knowing me provides.

Ella:   What advice would you give someone just starting out in your industry?
Get trained. Although I own a pr firm, I also have a nationally recognized blog. I can't tell you how many poor press releases, spam, inappropriate Twitter, MySpace and Facebook messages I receive that cause me to delete you immediately. Take the time to learn this business. Take some continuing education classes, get an internship, shadow another publicist, something then just submitting a few press releases then calling your self a publicist. You don't want to ruin your career. There are many clients out there.

Ella: What do you hope to offer your clients or customers to shape their lives?
I really hope to offer clients the ability to see themselves larger than they do, to see their book as the beginning of more to come, and to allow me to help them leverage their gifts to be of service to many not the few that they see. However, it takes time and trust and money, I want clients to acquire a solid business mindset about their writing career.

Ella:   What are 3 things all leaders possess?
-transparency
-faith
-a thick aggressive skin (lol)

Ella: How is DeeGospel PR impacting the public? What social issues or causes do you want to address?
I think I did that before. Social Issues I do work alongside the American Heart Association, the National Lupus Foundation, and Susan B. Komen on creating unique fundraising events that supports their cause and book lovers. This year we held the Wear Red and Read Dessert with American Heart, author Dwan Abrams and Barnes & Noble Bookstores. We had local celebrities perform, educated the community about heart disease--particularly post partum heart failure, the condition I live with--, and sold books and CDs and took donations for American Heart in the process.

Ella:   What's new in your company, DeeGospel PR?
This fall I will launch deegospelpr.com a membership site for authors who can't afford my services, but need my help. It will house all the things I haven't shared, free teleseminar and webinars, white papers, workshops, a PR helpdesk, howtos, and a database of bloggers who's content and audience fits your product or book. Moreover beginning August I will be hosting a series of 60 day workshops for a low cost of $100 dollars. Subscribe to my blog for registration details. The first session has started this week, but it is still time to register.

Contact Dee online:

Dee Stewart
www.deestewart.com
www.christianfiction.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/deegospel
www.facebook.com/dee.stewart
deegospelpr@gmail.com

Stephanie L. Jones, author of the Amazon.com bestselling book, The Enemy Between My Legs, is a highly sought-after speaker for schools, churches and organizations. As a Sexual Abuse Victim Advocate, Expert and Survivor, she travels the country helping victims break the cycle and silence and heal from the long-term effects of child molestation. Visit Stephanie at www.stephanieljones.com

Ella:   Where are you from? How did you start your writing journey?
I still reside in the city where I was born and raised, Detroit , Michigan . My writing journey began with one of friends continuously encouraging me to “tell my story.” Most of my book was written on restaurant napkins, on the back of store receipts, papers bags, and anything that I could get my hands on when a thought or idea would drop into my spirit.

Ella:   Tell us about your passion for writing. What drives you? What impact do you want your book to make?
Can I be totally honest? I don't have a passion for writing. No offense to all of the writers out there. I admire and love you! I'm driven to write because I must. It is the most effective way to allow people into my heart and soul and to understand the story of a woman who was violated sexually as a child and choose to live victoriously as an adult. I understand that words are powerful. Therefore, I use the written word to help inspire, encourage and bring healing to other sexual abuse victims and survivors. That’s why I write!

Ella: Finish this sentence- My writing offers the following legacy to future readers...
My writing offers the following legacy to future readers: You can take any negative story and turn it into a masterful manuscript that can change lives, heal broken hearts, mend families, and impact the world for generations to come.

Ella: Please introduce us to your book, The Enemy Between My Legs. Interesting title!
The Enemy Between My Legs. Wow! The title alone causes the hair on one’s neck to rise up to attention. It has been described by readers as bold, provocative and one of the most honest books ever to be published about the subject of child molestation. This self-help, memoir shares my story of being molested – fondled, touched, caressed – by people in my family who I loved as a child and who I still love today. It shares the devastating long-term impact of child molestation on my life, from sexual promiscuity and sexual dysfunction to health and money problems. Most importantly, it shares how I decided to pull the duct tape of silence away from my lips and began my journey to healing.

Ella: Why was this book, The Enemy Between My Legs, so important to create?
There was a need for someone to be transparent so that victims can understand the connection of their past abuse to their current struggles. Most books on sexual abuse are statistical and data driven. Many victims and survivors who write about child molestation tend to write about the subject as if they weren’t involved. I do understand that it’s difficult to share deep and intimate secrets about one’s past, but people need and want to hear the truth.

Ella:   How will your book impact community relationships?
My book is forcing families to open up and be honest about what has kept them bound and broken for generations. Impacting a community first begins with mending families. Hopefully my book will help break the cycle of abuse within families that will then go on to change their communities.

Ella: Ultimately, what do you want readers to gain from your book?
Freedom!

Ella: What is the most surprising thing you have learned from the community?
When it comes to child molestation, so many people are still naïve and don’t believe that it’s as prevalent as it is, and many still say that it hasn’t happened in their family.

Ella: What would you say has been your most significant achievement with this book?
My most significant achievement has been helping several teenagers begin their own journey to healing. I was able to help some of them avoid that path of self-destruction that I once traveled.

Ella: What advice would you give parents in supporting their teen?
You must be realistic about the issues teens are facing today. If you’re not fully aware of what those issues are, beyond what you see on television, then you need to become a private detective and find out! They’re experimenting and exposed to things beyond our imaginations. You must take a very active role in their lives and commit your life to doing absolutely all that you can to ensure a bright future for them. Being a financial provider is simply not enough.

Ella: Name 3 things that it takes to make a successful parent, in your opinion?
Sacrifice
Self-love
Patience

Ella: What can we expect from you in the future?
You can expect to see me writing more articles on different subjects that relate to child molestation, despite writing not being my passion (smile). I’m also doing a lot of traveling and speaking. I am working on a second book, but it’s not my first priority right now. I’m taking my time with it.

Ella: Share with us your latest news, awards or upcoming book releases.
The Enemy Between My Legs continues to do very well on Amazon.com and in bookstores. It debuted on the Essence bestsellers list in the same issue in which actor and comedian, Mo’Nique, shares her story of being molested. It has been featured in many magazines and newspapers and on radio and TV stations around the country. I give all honor and praise to God. He has blessed me to heal and help heal. I’m a contributing writer for a book being released spring 2010 by Simon & Schuster/Howard Books. That’s exciting!

Stephanie L. Jones
Author, Speaker & Sexual Abuse Victim Advocate
One in 3 females and 1 in 5 males are molested! Are you one of them?
Essence Magazine and Amazon.com Bestseller

Listen to an audio clip from Chapter One:
www.stephanieljones.com/TEBML_Audio_Promo.mp3
Website: www.stephanieljones.com

Chappale Linn Burton is a motivational speaker and the author of “How To Choose Happiness…Most of the Time” (recently endorsed by world renowned speaker; Brian Tracy). After witnessing the murder of his parents, Chappale could have led a life filled with anger. His book chronicles his life and journey, and provides you with tools to manage your own emotional states.

Ella: Tell us about your passion for writing. Why do you write? What drives you?
The reason why I write is because it's a wonderful medium to be able to intimately tell a story, and people can digest a book at their own pace. What drives me is sharing the knowledge that has helped me, in the hopes that it will help others. I want to make a positive difference in the lives of as many people as possible while I am here (and thereafter through my written words), and show people that they have more control over their lives than they may currently think.

Ella: Introduce us to your book, How To Choose Happiness…Most of the Time.
The book chronicles my life story. As a child, I was born into an abusive family situation, and in 1977 (at the age of 8 years old), while playing on a playground in Chicago, I witnessed a man gun down my parents in broad daylight. This was a turning point for me in my life. Many people would think that I could have used this situation as an excuse to live a life of irresponsibility, instead I chose to use my life as an example of what someone could achieve through adversity. I offer the reader a closer look into my life and journey, but also provide them with tools that I used to heal myself from that point. I have a 30 step process to help the reader start their journey to managing their emotional states where ever they are in their evolution.

Ella: What makes your book stand out and would entice a reader pick it up?
The unique and realistic title is what I feel makes my book stand out. There are a lot of books on happiness out there, but my book takes a realistic approach and allows one the room to be human. By that I mean, you have to leave room for the tears. We can't be happy 100% of the time, which is why I titled it...most of the time.

Ella: Ultimately, what do you want readers to gain from your book, How To Choose Happiness…Most of the Time?
I want people to be able to manage their emotional states consistently. I want them to realize that happiness is a choice that comes from the inside out. There is the common misconception in society that we can gain happiness from other people and things. Other people and things can only compliment the happiness that you have created for yourself from internally. There are many tools that can help one to create this state, and my book helps people to do exactly that. I take the reader through a 30 day program, to help them choose happiness a habit.

Ella: What advice would you give a new writer?
The advice I would give a new writer would be to make a daily plan to write consistently. The one thing that helped me with this book was to commit to writing for just a minimum of 5 minutes a day, that's all! That 5 minutes usually turned into several hours, but by committing to 5 minutes, I got the ball rolling and activated the law of inertia which states that a body in motion, will continue to stay in motion, unless acted on by an equal or opposite force!

Ella: What can we expect from you in the future?
Through my company Monday Smiles, we have developed a coaching program, which is a one on one process which helps clients walk step by step on a path to creating the happiness habit. It will be launched later on this summer, and I'm excited to continue my speaking engagements across the country and internationally.

Ella: Share with us your latest news, awards or upcoming book releases.
I am currently writing a book with my wife about relationships, it's a really interesting project and we're having a great time writing from the male and female perspective. It will be released later on this year.

I am also excited to be sharing the platform with best selling author and star of the Secret, Lisa Nichols, at the Illuminated Woman's Conference in Utah in August 2009.

Links to explore and purchase the Chappale Linn Burton products:
Boundless Possibilities
Creative Ways To Choose Happiness
Laugh With Us
Book On Amazon
View Chappale's video

LaTonya Branham was born in Ohio. She completed graduate studies at Antioch University McGregor, and undergraduate studies at Wilberforce University. She is the author of CultureSeek (1st and 2nd Edition) and Spirit Seek (2007.) LaTonya serves as a college administrator and adjunct professor. She and her husband serve in community outreach and youth ministries in Dayton, Ohio.

Ella: Tell us about life before becoming an author? How did you start your writing journey?
I was born and raised in Dayton Ohio. I graduated from Patterson-Cooperative High School, and in 1987, I married Morton Branham. I earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Wilberforce University and a Master of Arts degree from Antioch University McGregor.

After working 15 years in the corporate environment (banking and energy companies), I decided to pursue a career in higher education. My vision of creating mind-stimulating books uniquely, designed with messages and word search puzzles, resulted in the publishing of CultureSeek (2006, 2009) and Spirit Seek (2007.)

Ella: Why do you write? What drives you? What impact do you want your book to make on the readers?
During my pre-teen years, I would write poetry and short stories. Journaling – or writing in my personal diary - was a big deal for me as a teenager. Out of fear, I would tear up the pages so that no one could read what was written. I found writing to be a great outlet for grief or depression, secrets, and dreams. It wasn’t until my adult years that I considered having my work published. My husband would often encourage me to “do something” with the work I had created.

During the winter of 2000, I was blessed with a vision to create a combination book (CultureSeek) which would include black history facts and word search puzzles – two of my favorite passions. My thought was to create an interactive book that would attract readers to black history facts – without seeming like a rigorous academic history book. After six years of research and ultimately publishing the first edition of CultureSeek – the concept caught on in very impressive way.

Using the same “combination concept,” I decided to create an inspirational devotion book in 2007 entitled Spirit Seek: Words from Scriptures That Transform Your Life. As a Christian woman, it was only natural for me to develop a unique way to share God’s Word. So it is very clear that I am most interested in books that are informative, transformative, and long-lasting within a reader’s life.

Ella: A Legacy is something that is handed down from one period of time to another period of time. Finish this sentence- My writing offers the following legacy to future readers...
Legacy - My writing offers the following legacy to future readers... First and foremost, I write to impart knowledge. This means that my greatest hope is for readers to learn something and then share it with someone else. Over the years, I have learned so much – which I am proud to say can never be taken away from me. When I share what I know, in a positive manner, it only serves to elevate someone else. This is what I consider “mission accomplished.”

Ella: Introduce us to your book, CultureSeek.
CultureSeek is a combination book that explores the contributions, successes, and challenges of African American people. Understanding that black culture has roots in African and American history, CultureSeek draws the connection. CultureSeek was uniquely designed to further engage readers by providing word search puzzles for each topic - creating an interactive and inspiring learning experience. Select topics include Countries in Africa, African Kings and Queens, The Underground Railroad, Inventors, Athletic Excellence, Educators and Scholars, Musical Legends, Leaders of Rights and Justice, Science Giants, and Divine Guidance.

New to the Second Edition are famous quotes, photos, discussion questions, and over 200 additional African American historical facts. In total, there are more than 1,200 facts. There is also a new chapter dedicated our nation’s 44th United States President Barack Obama and the First Family. CultureSeek has been described as “a cutting edge approach to the study of African American history.” It is reader-friendly for young people, yet mind-stimulating enough for adult readers.

Ella: Why was this book, CultureSeek, so important to create?
When I initially received the vision to create CultureSeek, it seemed to be fun idea that combined two of my passions. However, after six years of research, I became so entrenched with the rich history of black people. The research, writing, and editing became a mission. If I was so inspired by all of this information, then surely other people would benefit from stories that have often been ignored.

There are so many readers who have never heard of Nannie Helen Burroughs, Claude Harvard, The Greenwood District (Black Wall Street), Myrtilla Miner, Marshall W. “Major” Taylor, Lucie Campbell-Williams, Francis “Frank” Johnson, or Virginia Hamilton. All of these people have made major contributions to African American life and culture.

The chapter on the Harlem Renaissance is one of my favorites. It was such an important era and I am fascinated by the way various artists used their talent to express the state of America and bring light to such a turbulent time in history. We enjoy so much from our rich heritage – but do we really know and understand that there was a “price for our privilege?” This is why my first professional writing project was so important.

Ella: What would you say has been your most significant achievement with this book?
During the development of CultureSeek, I had a very broad perspective about my reading audience. My initial thought was that this book would be appropriate for anyone who could read. I had not fully grasped the marketing advice that I had received relative to “knowing your audience.” So needless to say, I pitched CultureSeek to everyone! For the most part, I have been successful with this approach because average readers (not scholars) were looking for basic information about black history.

More importantly, I learned that teachers were so attracted to the concept and layout of the book. Also, men – who are well-known as “non-fiction” readers – were very attracted to CultureSeek. After several months of sharing the books with teachers and their students, I began to hear stories about students enjoying history along with the word puzzles. Now, that is amazing simply because most students despise any type of history lesson. When I learned that young people received excellent grades on their book reports after utilizing CultureSeek, I was thankful that my work made a difference in someone’s life.

Ella: What is your advice for aspiring writers?
My advice comes after a writer has completed their project because I have found that many writers are introverts. There is comfort in writing, but a great fear of public speaking. I would encourage all aspiring writers to get comfortable speaking about your book. Develop your ability to speak in front of large and small audiences.

Stretch beyond your comfort zone relative to speaking on subjects unrelated to your book – because you will get questions on a variety of topics. The more you do it, the better you’ll get! My favorite affirmation is “If you want something different, you have to do something different!”

Once your book becomes published, you’ll have to transition from writer to speaker. Whether you write fiction or non-fiction, readers often expect more than what is written in your book – so you must be willing to share yourself with your audience.

Ella: What is your next writing project?
I am currently working on a devotional book for college students, and one more addition to the ‘seek series’ entitled Seeking America. I have so many writing projects on my agenda. It will keep me busy for several years. I plan to contribute to anthologies and devotionals written or edited by other authors. I have a great appreciation for collaborative writing efforts. Writing is therapeutic and I really enjoy the experience of writing. It can be a time-consuming process, but the outcome is worth the journey.

Self motivation is the ability to motivate yourself, to find a reason and the necessary strength to do something, without the need of being influenced to do so by another person. Inner peace has nothing to do with externals, which is why self motivation techniques fill a necessary gap.

Improve Yourself
If you want to improve your self motivation or self esteem or improve yourself in any way, you need the desire and will to do it. You need self motivation to achieve, because if you don't encourage yourself to accept opportunity and challenge, who will?

The very fact that you are here and trying to improve yourself shows that you are motivated. Start by setting small goals. Remember to give yourself positive rewards for each achievement.

Make a commitment to what matters to you; act on your priorities and your values; express to yourself and to others what you want and need in your life. What are your likes and dislikes?

The key to success is to be yourself; the key to failure is to try and please everyone. Success is defined not by what other people think of you, but what you think of yourself.

Success
The best way to bring success to yourself is to genuinely desire to create value for the rest of the world. It instantly begins with devising a plan for your success. Each small success will lead you to larger ones and you will finally reach the moon. Go ahead; reach for it! Opportunities for success are all around you. You just have to open your eyes and look; and listen. You will discover that even successful people do certain things each day to stay motivated.

You will find it easy to give your self motivation a boost with successes in your daily, weekly or long term activities. Self improvement results to inner stability, personality development and success. By making an effort to feel grateful, you’ll realize how competent and successful you already are. Fully appreciate the smaller things in life.

Goals
Training yourself to take any small step towards your goals is a great self motivation technique. Breaking this into small steps makes this even easier. Write down your goals and stick them on your desk or wall so you can see them. Create your self-awareness and latent skills to reach your goals.

Enjoy the self-assured confidence that comes from within, knowing you are achieving those goals that matter the most to you. Remind yourself of your goals and take some time to appreciate how far you've come in reaching them. You will notice the positive difference!

Conclusion
Keep a positive attitude: There's nothing more powerful for self motivation than the right attitude. It gives you joy, the impetus to push further, and a sense of power. Self- Motivation is not an accident or something that someone else can give you -- you are the only one with the power to motivate you. You have within you the unique power of deciding your destiny.

About Author Scott Allen Barker: For effective motivational techniques to help you take charge of your life and to reach your goals in life, get it here: http://www.MentalHealthDropInCenter.com/motivationalecourse.html and   http://www.MentalHealthDropInCenter.com http://www.HealthfulResourcesForYou.com

Article Source: www.isnare.com
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http://www.mentalhealthdropincenter.com
http://www.healthfulresourcesforyou.com

With skin so black like dark sticky tar covering me from the top of my nappy head to the bottom of my rough calloused feet. My eyes, dark brown stared back at me while I turned my nose up at my ugly reflection hating the image that was me. In my mind, I had the skin of creamed coffee and the eyes of honey while my long curly strands of Indian hair flowed down passed my shoulder blades in the breeze.

But my imaginary images where nothing more than an obsession of being someone else. I wanted hair like Mya and mystifying eyes like Stacy Dash with buttery skin like Beyonce; but all I had was a brillo pad crop, dark skin like untouched black coffee with eyes dark and big and unable to show expression. I craved the attention that my lighter competition always received, leaving me alone in the ugly corner of the room.

If it wasn’t light then it wasn’t right and in order to be treated how I’ve fantasized being adored, I had to mold myself into a picturesque attraction, you know, becoming apart and a victim to the media propaganda. When I could afford to buy some good hair, I bought it by the yard shedding my natural African queen image with a facade that made the heads turn.

When they started selling fade cream to lighten your complexion, I bought it by the case using it religiously as I watched my pigments lighten up a few shades towards brown sugar. When society told me that my wide African nose wasn’t flattering or fashionable, I ran to the nearest plastic surgeon who’d transform my West Indian roots from wide and ridiculous to slim and red-carpet worthy like Vivica Fox.

I went from sagging tribal shriveled up breast to round accepted mounds like Lil’ Kim. They wanted cheekbones, so I gave them cheekbones high and defined like Mary J. Blige with a Trina derriere to complete the full fledge transformation. I was now loved and I was finally noticed by all the people who’d passed me by like I was a hungry begging bum on the street corner. I got everything I could possibly dream along with a man whose looks complimented mine and vice a versa.

I was now one of them and apart of their sector with no more worries in the world. Life from then on was going to be an easy ride with no more hardships and setbacks; right? Isn’t life supposed to be better when you’re beautiful and flawless? I mean, on the outside looking in, the pretty girls always seemed to be given the world on the highest pedestal, but for my story it wasn’t what I imagined the journey to be.

The man, who I thought loved me and paraded me around his arm like a platinum trophy, damaged my heart and my pride. The insecurities that I housed where detrimental to my health as my love abused me and smeared my cares throughout the mud with his frequent cheating. Just when I thought the new person I became would never be hurt, my beauty wasn’t the strongest of armor I believed it to be.

The world that I knew to be simple as pie was still cruel and unkind. The world sucked me up dry with their degradation and taking advantage of while putting a price tag on my beauty. My hatred for myself manifested to others hating me while I began to come to realization that my beauty was nothing but a curse. My life begins to crumble right before my eyes while my beautiful facade taunted me laughing and pointing in my face.

As I stared at my beauty, the mirror continued to play tricks on me as my old face kept reflecting through the mirror. I watched my despicable images tease me while my conscious began the battle of tug of war. “DARKY……UGLY…..TAR BABY…..BLACKY…SPOOK.” echoed my eardrums as my ugly side went to war with my surgically altered beautiful side.

Standing at the edge of my sanity, I crashed the mirror with a sculpture shattering it to pieces while my tears rained uncontrollably while venting out my sorrow and self pity to the Lord. I hated the way he made me and I wanted so desperately to become someone else, but no matter how much I’ve done to myself to change, I was still the same woman that I’ve grown to hate.

My low self-esteem was at it’s lowest of lows and the more I stared at myself in the mirror, the more ridiculous I looked. I felt like I wanted to die and I tried my hardest to end my existence by pill overdoses on top of alcohol poisoning. I even allowed meaningless sex to be an outlet to escape the harsh realities of what I was dealing with along with a racy game of Russian roulette with my life while allowing the no-names to invade my house unprotected becoming receptive to their infections and diseases.

My temple meant nothing to me more than an object of affection for the many week or two love affairs that passed through my life. I guess being beautiful isn’t all cracked up to be and regardless of a pretty face or not so pretty face, life is still hard. Sinking low into my pit of depression, the weight of the world strapped itself on top of my weak shoulders while I dragged my sadness through the mud when a saint approached me with some words.

“Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.” The warmth that illuminated within her eyes shined down on me while I became lost in her welcoming smile. “Take this to understand.” She voiced while sliding some inspiration in my hand. It stated that by choosing the path to quick and superficial external beauty that we often neglect our inner beauty. The reality of a truly beautiful person not only possesses good looks but also captivates virtuous personality found in our interior cavity.

It also gave descriptions on suggestions on self-improvement to cultivate my inner beauty. Knowing who you are leads to self- confidence, knowing what you want in life leads to ambition, knowing that your inner beauty means you are forever enough, and knowing what virtues are leads to a disposition of being a good and moral character.

The words gave me purpose and understanding on how my inner beauty was more special than what I possessed on the outside. It made me learn myself well and know my limits on the challenges of knowing how to react to particular situations and conditions that eventually led me to exuding self-confidence. The reflections the pamphlet enclosed assisted me to getting in touch with my inner beauty along with the strength of the Lord who changed my view and opinions on what I thought beauty was supposed to be.

The Lord spoke to me and told me to allow my inner beauty to flow and to shed the external façade replacing it with confidence, integrity, fairness, self-control, and compassion. The Lord directed me to develop these virtues evolving me to a virtuous individual with virtual ethics. See before loving myself, I believed that changing my physical appearance would make life better. I thought that re-sculpturing my body with plastic surgery would reinforce my self-esteem and camouflage my natural flaws but it just showed how insecure I really was and how the lack of love for myself allowed outsiders to influence me on how they thought I should look.

The Lord showed me that my inner beauty cannot be debated or definable. It’s true that one can make oneself look physically beautiful but in due time the outer beauty fades, but inner beauty develops with age and is timeless, and priceless. After establishing a resolution with my self and with the lords’ inspirational words, I was able to embrace myself with wisdom and understanding along with the knowledge that beauty proceeds from the inside out.

He also showed me that my inner beauty is also an expression of love and compassion and to never allow another person’s destructive judgment to tare me down. I allowed my beloved to pour his unconditional love into my empty space and accepted the free flow of grace to enter my heart. The whole time while I was changing myself to be beautiful the lord made me see that the beauty I sought was in me the whole time.

So I removed all the false facades that I thought made me beautiful and returned back to the way the lord molded me out to be. So now I can happily say that I am beautiful in the inside as well as on the outside and that my source of beauty lies solely in me. I am beautiful.... I am beautiful.... again I say; I am beautiful with self love and inner beauty that is timeless with an experience that will take me beyond belief.

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Author/Internet radio show host Alicia C. McGhee 28; resides out in the Pacific Northwest with her husband & three children. She’s an urban erotic writer whose works been showcased by best-selling authors Zane & Noire with 4 titles under her name who also creates under the alter ego “Pre’Cise.” Find Mrs. McGhee’s books on www.amazon.com.

The word of God says…if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move; and nothing will be impossible to you ( Matthew 17:20b)

Life is complex at times, especially when we are in the midst of trials or facing problems and troubled situations. Sometimes, the mountain of problems we are facing can test even the strongest of God’s children. Now faith is assurance of things hoped for, a conviction of things not seen (Hebrew 11:1 NASB).

During tough times such as those many of us are faced with today, where does our faith stand? Where is the mustard seed faith that can say to the mountain in our lives, be thou removed and be yea cast down into the sea, and the mountain will move out of our way? Where are those of us who stand strong against the fierce winds of adversity?

When everywhere we look, people are losing jobs, families are splitting apart, and murder and mayhem seem to bombard the news. Giant corporations who provided good, steady jobs with great pay and benefits are becoming scarce and corrupt. We don’t see a positive end in sight. As a matter of fact, it looks like things are getting worse at every time.

What do you do when your mountain won’t move? Some of us give up. Some of us find it even more difficult to call on the sovereign God. Still, many more of us fester in anger, disappointment, confusion and hate. As our children go without, as our homes go in foreclosure, and our automobiles are repossessed, and our job cutbacks are at an all time high what do we expect. When we lose our material possessions that we’ve worked so hard for, how can we stand and take our tiny, pitiful mustard seed faith and say “mountain get out of my way,” and expect it to move?

It can be difficult. It can seem impossible. I know from experience, and I’ve been a child of God since I was eight years old. Now I am so much older, and I’ve seen the matchless hand of God’s saving grace and mercy work over and over and over in my life. Still, I’m here to tell you, that even now, my faith has been put through the test.

I wish I could say that I came through with flying colors like my brother in Christ Job did, but I would be lying. Truth be told, I recently went through a trying situation that had me reeling and spiraling out of control. I didn’t think about picking up God’s words. I barely drew his words from my heart. I lay in a fetal position on my bed literally for days and sulked, cried, sulked and cried some more, wondering why me, Lord? I didn’t want to write. I didn’t want to talk to family and friends. I didn’t want to talk to God.

Yet, I say. God Is. God remained faithful to me, His child. After all, He is the one who chose me, adopted me into His kingdom, made me an heir and a joint heir, placed me as part of a royal priesthood. He is the one who made me, he formed me and he already knows all there is to know about me, including the times such as these that I have faced lately and times before, and times to come.

God remained by my side when I didn’t feel Him by my side. He is in my spirit, the depths of my soul. He surrounds me with his love and His angels of protection. He looks at my fragile, carnal body and loves me--Still. He loved me when I didn’t think I was loveable. He loved me when I felt doubtful of Him and His love. He loved me, and he held me when I fought against Him, when I blamed Him for my circumstances.

You see, my friends; God is big enough to take on our problems. He tells us to trust in Him with all of our hearts and to lean not to our own understanding. He tells us that He will direct our paths. He reminded me that I am not perfect. I will falter at times, but my belief in God will never change.

You can say to the mountain in your life. “Move mountain. Get out of my way in the name of Jesus. If you believe that which you say, then the mountain has no choice but to move! I came to understand this recently as I sat in a sea of depression in the middle of my bed watching Planet Earth on the Animal Precinct channel. It told the story of a beautiful group of special cranes that had to make a gruesome, life threatening journey to the other side of the Himalayas, the highest mountains in the world, if they were to eat and drink. Though they knew they faced death, though they knew some of their young would be killed, though they knew that some of them would not make it because of the danger that faced them as they confronted the mighty Himalayas, they yet moved forward. They stretched their wings and allowed the wind to push them gently, yet steadily, higher and higher. They elevated gracefully up, up higher and higher into the Himalayas. The mountains are too tall to fly over, so the cranes had to reach enough elevation that they could rise above the storms that they would surely face trying to make it to the other side by going through the vast God majestic mountains. There was a time they even had to turn back because of the strong, turbulence coming from the ferocious storms up in the clouds. They were exhausted, hungry and thirsty. They faced a major setback and had to turn back. Yet, they did not give up. They started again and they went through the same thing, but this time, even though hawks were waiting to prey on the weaker cranes, they didn’t stop. They moved higher up the mountain until they reached an elevation high enough that they were able to fly around the massive Himalayas all the way to the other side. Upon reaching the other side, they were able to feed on rich, fertile food and fresh water. They would have to make the long journey back again, but they had no time to think about what lay ahead. They had reached their destination through perseverance.

We too, can reach the destination that God has for us. Maybe you have lost a job recently. Maybe you don’t know how you’re going to make ends meet. Maybe you’re in a troubled relationship or you’re just plain worried about your future. My friends, God is able. God will never let us down. We must learn how to face our mountains. We may turn back at times, and feel like we will never see a brighter day ahead. But we must not linger and we must not give up. We may have to start the journey of faith again, but that’s okay because God is a God of second chances and third chances and unlimited chances. We may falter and get weary but God says He will fight our battles for us. We do have the power within us because of the Holy Spirit to say to our mountain, Move Mountain Get out of my way.

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The Word According to Shelia is a monthly column by national multi award winning Christian fiction author, inspirational speaker and literary expert, Shelia E. Lipsey. Contact Shelia E. Lipsey at shelialipsey@gmail.com or visit her on the web at www.shelialipsey.com; www.myspace.com/shelialipsey; http//twitter.com/shelialipsey.

Shelia is a four time author for Kensington/Urban books. Her latest soul-gripping novel, Beautiful Ugly, will be released nationwide including online August 1, 2009. Shelia is also a regular columnist and Literary Diva for Sankofa Literary Society, as well as a contributor to Black Pearls Magazine.

Jacquelin Thomas is an award winning, bestselling author with over 30 titles in print. Her books have garnered several awards, including two EMMA awards, the Romance In Color Reviewers Award, Readers Choice Award, and the Atlanta Choice Award in the Religious & Spiritual category. She was a 2008 NAACP Image Award nominee and was given the 2008 Career Achievement Award by Romantic Times Magazine. She is happily married to her best friend and is the proud mother of three children. Jacquelin and her family live in North Carolina.

Ella: Tell us about your passion for writing. Why do you write? What drives you?
I write because I don’t know how NOT to write. I have been writing since I was in the third grade and its how I got through those years of being extremely shy. In writing, I have the ability to control everything—something we don’t have in the real world. I love being able to make someone smile, lift someone’s spirits or just entertain with my stories. I love it and can’t see doing anything else in my life outside of serving God.

Ella: A Legacy is something that is handed down from one period of time to another period of time. Finish this sentence- My writing offers the following legacy to future readers...
My writing offers the following legacy to future readers... entertaining stories of flawed individuals whose weaknesses become their greatest strengths.

Ella: Where are you from? What is your favorite genre? How did you start your writing journey?
I live in North Carolina. My favorite genres are mystery, romance and Christian Fiction. I love them all equally.

I’ve been writing since I was in the third grade—I was painfully shy growing up, so writing became my outlet. However, I would never submit anything and it wasn’t until I was pregnant with my third child that I decided to finally ‘test’ the publishing waters. I wrote a novel titled Hidden Blessings and submitted it to Kensington Publishing. Monica Harris was the editor at the time and she purchased it in 1997. The book came out in 98’, was adapted into a BET television movie and I’ve been writing ever since. I have over 30 books in print today.

Ella: Introduce us to your new book The Ideal Wife.
THE IDEAL WIFE is the story of a woman whose husband wants her to embrace the swinging lifestyle and her quest to make her marriage work without dishonoring God and her husband. The book offers the reader a glimpse into the lifestyle of a “Christian swinger.” The story will also challenge reader’s beliefs on whether swinging or wife-swapping is considered adultery. I ran across an article that said that sixty-eight percent of swingers consider themselves Christian, which inspired the writing of this story.

Ella: Who are your two main characters and what do you like most about them?
Jana and Lawrence are the main characters in The Ideal Wife. I love that Jana knows who she is in Christ and stands her ground with her husband, despite her love for him. Lawrence is likeable because he’s not out to hurt Jana—he loves God, but truly believes that there is nothing wrong with the swinging lifestyle. His pastor is a swinger, so how can it be so bad?

Ella: How does this book shape or add value to the reader's life?
The Ideal Wife is written to entertain, but also to educate. I make no attempt to pass judgment or tell couples what they should do behind closed doors. I simply want the story to open the door for discussion. I believe Jana is a wonderful role model for women, in that she loves Lawrence, but she is not willing to do something she considers immoral.

Ella: Ultimately, what do you want readers to gain from your book?
I would like readers to gain understanding that you can’t just accept someone else’s word over what the Bible says. You have to search the Word for yourself and ask God to give you wisdom and understanding, because scriptures are oftentimes manipulated to suit someone’s purpose.

Ella: Who would this book really "speak to" and why?
It should be to everyone. Sex is a gift from God and unfortunately, it’s become perverted by the world. Intimacy between a husband and wife is special and I think you have to be careful. I want my relationship with my husband to honor God because He is also a part of our marriage. Again, the book speaks to everyone and will provoke discussions between married couples and singles alike.

Ella: What would you say has been your most significant achievement as a writer?
Being nominated for a 2008 NAACP Image Award for Divine Confidential. I found out the day that I buried my father that I had been nominated, so it was bittersweet.

Ella: What advice would you give a new writer?
When writing your first draft—just write and don’t worry about how it reads. Finish the story before going back over to revise and don’t compare your work to other authors.

Ella: Name 3 things that it takes to make a successful author, in your opinion?
1. Putting pen to paper. Writers write!

2. Be willing to accept that you don’t know everything there is to know about writing and that your editor is there to help make your story shine.

3. Read books on the craft of writing and read just for fun when you’re not working on a project.

Ella: Share with us your latest news, awards or upcoming book releases.
The Ideal Wife will be in stores October 6, 2009, Teach Me Tonight will also be in stores in October, and Split Ends (Young Adult) will be released December 29, 2009.

Angela Benson's numerous novels include the Christy Award-nominated Awakening Mercy, the Essence-bestselling The Amen Sisters, and Up Pops The Devil. She's also the author of nonfiction writing book, Telling the Tale: The African-American Fiction Writer's Guide. She is currently an associate professor at the University of Alabama.

Ella: Tell us about your passion for writing. Why do you write? What drives you?
I don't know if I'd use the word passion to describe my writing. I write because I have something to say that I believe will encourage and motivate readers while at the same time entertaining them. My passion is for encouraging. Writing is an avenue for doing it.

Ella: A Legacy is something that is handed down from one period of time to another period of time. Finish this sentence- My writing offers the following legacy to future readers...
My writing offers the following legacy to future readers... a source of encouragement, motivation and entertainment.

Ella: Where are you from? How did you start your writing journey?
I’m an Alabama native. I started writing when I was in fifth grade. At the time, I had no idea that writing was a career option. I just wrote for my class. It wasn't until twenty years later that I began to explore writing as a career. I was fortunate in that I sold the first book I wrote. I started writing it in 1992, sold it in 1993 and it was published in 1994.

Ella: Please introduce us to your new book, Sins of the Father.
Sins of the Father (ISBN: 9780061468520)- Successful media mogul Abraham Martin has great wealth, an elegant wife, Saralyn, and a rebellious son, Isaac. He also has a secret: a second family that no one knows about. Now, after thirty years—driven by the urging of his long dormant conscience—Abraham is determined to do the right thing by finally bringing his illegitimate children into the light…and into the family fold. Sins of the Father is a powerful story of a house bitterly divided—a rich, multilayered family saga of betrayal and redemption, rage and compassion, faith, forgiveness, and ultimately, of love.

Ella: Who are your two main characters and what do you like most about them?
The three adults who drive Sins of the Father were wonderful characters to write. Abraham Martin, the father who is trying to make amends, is likeable because he really does want to do the right thing. His wife, Saralyn, is likeable because her plight and her pain are so realistic. Leah, his old mistress, tugs at your heart as she deals regret for her past decisions and the impact they’ve had on her children.

Ella: What makes your book stand out and would entice a reader pick it up?
Sins of the Father takes a biblical story and asks a different question about it than the one asked in the Bible. That question shows the relevancy of the story today. Even President Obama has addressed the problem of absentee fathers. In Sins of the Father, we see an absentee father trying to make amends with the adult children he abandoned when they were babies, and finding it very difficult. We also see how his choices, past and current, affect both of his families.

Ella: Ultimately, what do you want readers to gain from your book?
I want to confirm for readers that making amends for past bad acts is always the right thing to do. Even though you may not be forgiven or received with open arms, you still have to try. More specifically, I hope that the lines of communication between some absentee fathers and their children may open and develop.

Ella: What is the most surprising thing you have learned in creating books?
I gain as much writing the stories as readers do when reading them. There’s a lesson for me in each story.

Ella: What would you say has been your most significant achievement as a writer?
Being able to endure fifteen years in this business. My career is not one I’d recommend other writers follow. Since my first book was published in 1994, I’ve written twelve novels in four different genres for five different publishers with contracts negotiated by three different agents. While many the of writers who started writing with me have achieved more writing success, there are many who are no longer being published. I consider myself blessed to still be in the business and writing the books I want to write.

Ella: What advice would you give a new writer?
Finish at least one manuscript. It’s important for new writers to know that they can finish a book. It might not be the best book in the world, but you will have proved to yourself that you can tell a story from beginning to end. That knowledge will make finishing the second book much easier. As you write more books, you’ll find that you develop a rhythm to your writing. You’ll begin to notice how long your chapters are, how many scenes are usually in a chapter, how long it takes you to write a scene or chapter, etc. This knowledge will prove invaluable once you start writing to deadline.

Make time to read at least one book a month. Most writers start as avid readers. Once readers start to write, they sometimes find their lives so busy that reading is neglected. Don’t let that happen to you. Don’t lose your love and appreciation of good stories. In addition to hours of pleasure, reading will keep you up to date on the market.

Rejoice in the success of other writers. Every time a new writer sells a book, a struggling writer should be encouraged. That sale is proof that publishers are still buying new writers. Take time to congratulate that writer and be sure to purchase the book when it hits the shelves. Don’t give up. Don’t give up. Don’t give up.

Ella: Name 3 things that it takes to make a successful author, in your opinion?
A love of reading, a healthy respect for the craft of writing, and a willing to accept constructive criticism.

Ella: What can we expect from you in the future?
My contract with Avon/HarperCollins is up with Sins of the Father. I recently submitted a proposal to them for my next book. I hope to have some good news in the next few weeks. In the meantime, I have a novella in the upcoming Millions of Blessings anthology being published by Dafina in March 2010. Marilynn Griffith and Tia McCollors, two wonderful people and great authors, have novellas in it as well.

Ella: Share with us your latest news, awards or upcoming book releases.
The Sins of the Father Blog Tour continues through Friday, September 4, 2009. I invite each of you to join us. You can find the schedule on my blog at http://www.angelabensonblog.com

Pat G’Orge-Walker is the Essence bestselling author of Somewhat Saved; Cruisin’ on Desperation; Mother Eternal Ann Everlastin’s…; Sister Betty, God’s Calling You, Again!; and contributed short stories to several anthologies. Being a preacher’s kid gave her a quirky perspective on church, inspiring her to create a one-woman comedy show centering on Sister Betty, whose unchristian-like behavior blocks her blessings.

Ella: Tell us about your passion for writing. Why do you write? What drives you?
I believe my love for words play an integral part in my passion for writing. I need to write as much as I need air to breathe. It is like being constantly pregnant and needing to deliver.

Ella: A Legacy is something that is handed down from one period of time to another period of time. Finish this sentence- My writing offers the following legacy to future readers...
My writing offers the following legacy to future readers: permission to be different in the face of naysayers. There were times when I was faced with the challenge of delivering God's message through humor. Of course, laughter, although permitted through scripture, didn't seem to connect with those staunch Saintly folks. Never let anyone step on your creativity when your creativity is to enlighten and provide entertainment.

Ella: Give us the synopsis of the book being discussed, Somebody's Sinning in My Bed.

Chyna and her sister Janelle are always moments away from a catfight. They love each other, but Janelle has never forgiven her sister for swiping her first love, Cordell. That was ages ago, and now Chyna is showing off as the First Lady of New Hope Assembly, a church that’s caught between the old ways of Holiness and new ways of serving its community. New Hope ’s leader, Reverend Grayson Young, is also caught…in the infamous Sweet Bush lounge, an establishment well-known for adult pleasures.

Despite being First Lady Chyna's no saint and when her husband falls from grace he snatches her along too. Chyna's now facing down blackmail from the church board and cannot get sympathy or help from the one person who's always been there for her, her sister Janelle who's dealing with breast cancer.

In the midst of all the chaos Cordell returns as a new man. He's now a man of God who must try and reconcile the mess he's made of the sisters lives as an ex-husband to one and ex-lover to the other. what follows are squabbling, chaos, and surprises that show just how hard the road to salvation really is…

Ella: Who are your two main characters and what do you like most about them?
The main characters in my book are two sisters; Chyna and Janelle. What I like about Chyna is that she finally resolves to not think less of herself than God does. What I like about Janelle is her fire. Janelle's a person who loves deeply and that makes her dangerous on several levels. However, Janelle is also able to suck on pigfeet while drinking Cristol and make it look classy.

Ella: What makes your book stand out and would entice a reader pick it up?
My books are pretty much known for their covers. The fire red cover, shy-yet flirty female and the church steeple are strong images. I also think the title is provocative; Somebody's Sinning in My Bed. Explore the book here.

Ella: Ultimately, what do you want readers to gain from your book, Somebody's Sinning in My Bed?
I want the reader to remember that we're birthed in complexities and need. Life is a journey that will make you or break you. If the reader can remember that God is always in control and whatever you go through...God's got the end already tied up and gift-wrapped for you if you walk in faith. However, one should never play with God; a reprobated mind is a terrible thing to have. And finally, one should never think less of themselves than God does.

Ella: What advice would you give a new writer?
I would advise a new writer to study their craft, pray often and surround yourself with like-minded people. Also in getting representation make sure they are reputable and don't jump at the first person/agency to say they can make you a star or get your books published.

Ella: Name 3 things that it takes to make a successful author, in your opinion?
Three things that make a successful author in my opinion are: (1) the ability to craft a good story that the reader won't have to read two-three times to get its meaning. (2) Have a marketing plan that is doable and then do it along with prayer. (3) An honest relationship with your editor is key.

Ella: What can we expect from you in the future?
I will have one more book coming out in 2010. It is tentatively titled, "Jessie's Jewels." After that there will be more stories involving Sister Betty and her zany cohorts.

Ella: Share with us your latest news, awards or upcoming book releases.
I'm currently working on my next novel and eagerly awaiting the release of Somebody's Sinning in My Bed. It will debut as a August 2009 release. Of course, I'm still out and about performing and traveling with my Somewhat Saved Comedy Show.

LaCricia A`ngelle is a licensed Evangelist, writer, and the President of His Pen Publishing. A native of Chicago, LaCricia currently resides in Tennessee with her four children. As a Christian Fiction author, LaCricia not only writes for entertainment, but she also writes for ministry. Her goal in every piece of written work is to draw someone closer to Christ.

Ella: How did you start your writing journey?
I am originally a native of Chicago, however I settled in Tennessee several years ago. My favorite genre is Christian Fiction. I am very impressed with how many Christian Fiction authors are stepping out of the box and writing about topics that are relevant to today’s time. I started my writing journey as a child by writing poetry and songs.

Ella: Tell us about your passion for writing. Why do you write? What drives you?
I write first and foremost for ministry. Through my writing I not only minister to others but I minister to myself as well. In addition to ministry, I write for entertainment. I enjoy going back over some of the things I have written to see my thoughts on paper. I am driven by my desire to set a good example for my children. My writing offers me the opportunity to show my children that although my original plans/goals for my life were not achieved, I was able to dream new dreams and to become successful doing it.

Ella: Finish this sentence- My writing offers the following legacy to future readers...
Forgiveness is a choice. When we choose not to forgive, we harm ourselves much more than those we choose not to forgive.

Ella: Introduce us to your new book, Girl Naw!.
What happens when the window becomes a mirror. Antoinette Walker is good at helping other women resolve their issues but her closet isn’t free from skeletons. Girl, Naw! takes you on Antoinette’s journey of ridding her bed of roses of the thorns that continue to prick her heart. Forgiving others will only be part of her struggle.

Ella: Ultimately, what do you want readers to gain from your book?
Ultimately, I hope readers will gain from Girl, Naw! strength to move past the emotional scars that have paralyzed them. It is my prayer that readers will gain more compassion for others that are going through various things in life, because we never really know what someone else is truly facing.

Ella: Who would this book really "speak to" and why?
Girl, Naw! speaks to hurting people. It opens the door to forgiveness, and ushers in the healing process. I also believe Girl, Naw! speaks to individuals both male and female who are in a position of authority where people depend on them a lot for various reasons. Girl, Naw! shows its readers, they are not alone. Some of the very trials and tests they are facing there are others going through it as well.

Ella: What would you say has been your most significant achievement as a writer?
My most significant achievement as a writer has been having readers contact me both in person and via email and tell me the impact Girl, Naw! has made in their lives. I will never forget the time I was doing an interview about Girl, Naw! and a woman in the audience shed tears after hearing an excerpt from the book. The section that was read touched on something she was going through.

Ella: What advice would you give a new writer?
I would advise a new writer to persevere. New writers will often have their confidence challenged. It is important to take your time and put out a good product. Don't allow yourself to become overwhelmed with unrealistic deadlines. I would also advise a new writer to take advantage of all of the resources that are available such as writers' workshops, and online writers' groups that focus on the genre in which they are writing. Finally, I would advise a new writer to read books that are compatible to what they are writing.

Ella: What can we expect from you in the future?
In the future readers can expect to see more life altering stories from LaCricia A`ngelle. Stories that show characters overcoming tough obstacles by the power of God. You can also expect to see more authors realizing their publishing dreams through His Pen Publishing. Most importantly Expect the Unexpected.

www.lacriciaangelle.com
www.myspace.com/authorlacricia
http://www.facebook.com/lacricia
http://authorlacricia.wordpress.com

Ella: Introduce us to your new book The Good Stuff.
What Happens After I Do? The Good Stuff reveals the inside story of two marriages on the verge of divorce. Sonia is tired of raising two six-year-old twins and a thirty-something-year-old husband. Adrian couldn’t love her husband Daryll more if she tried, but he seems more interested in making money than babies. These two women are heartbroken and ready to call it quits when a common friend, Miss Irma, invites them to a prayer group. They discover marriage is more than a wedding – it’s a lifetime of compromise, patience, and forgiveness. But Adrian didn’t sign up for all that, and Sonia is busy eyeing another male prospect up ahead. Will help come in time to save their marriages?

Ella: Who are your two main characters and what do you like most about them?
My main characters in this novel are Sonia and Adrian. I like Sonia because she's full of voice and sassy - she's also very independent, to a fault. I like Adrian because she's young and gutsy. She reminds me of several of my younger cousins and I enjoy her spunk despite her mother-in-law's smothering. She grows up in this book, and I like that about her.

Ella: How does this book shape or add value to the reader's life?
I've had the opportunity to meet with a few book clubs about this book, and what I'm hearing is that women are being challenged to learn the fine art of being a wife. This is a lost art for many in my generation - we were raised to get a good education and get a good job so we would never have to depend on a man. That independence doesn't work well in a marriage. So, the book is causing us to take our existence to a higher level - from independence to interdependence.

Ella: Name 3 things that it takes to make a successful author, in your opinion?
1. Prayer 2. Reading 3. Practice

Ella: What can we expect from you in the future?
I'm working on a follow-up to Boaz Brown as well as a few movie projects. I'm also releasing a kit of short stories for high school students through my academic support service company - www.wegottaread.com

Dr. Natalie A. Francisco serves as Co-Pastor alongside her husband, Bishop L. W. Francisco III, and Minister of Music at Calvary Community Church (Hampton, VA). She is author of Wisdom for Women of Worth & Worship: Lessons for a Life of Virtue, Value & Victory and founder/executive director of the Women of Worth & Worship (WOWW) Conference and Institute.

Ella: Tell us about your passion for writing. Why do you write? What drives you?
I developed a love for reading and writing in grammar school and excelled at it throughout my educational pursuits and career. My passion has always been centered around educating and empowering others, particularly women, and my writings have been in alignment with my heart's desire to serve others.

Ella: A legacy is something that is handed down from one period of time to another period of time. Finish this sentence: My writing offers the following legacy to future readers...
Women of all ages who read my book will discover it to be a resource that will motivate them to uncover their dreams and desires in order to live a quality of life that is honorable to God, self-fulfilling and of service to others.

Wisdom for Women of Worth & Worship: Lessons for a Life of Virtue, Value & Victory is a wealth of information tailor-made to address the questions that women have regarding spirituality, relationships, marriage, parenting, maintaining balance and so much more. I share the triumphs, tragedies, and lessons learned from my life to captivate women and catapult them into their destiny. Biblical principles, self-reflective journal exercises and practical wisdom intermingle to create a mentoring memoir that readers will enjoy time and time again.

Ella: Where are you from? What is your favorite genre? How did you start your writing journey?
I am a native of Hampton, Virginia who loves to travel. Being in full-time ministry has afforded me the opportunity to visit many nations as well as to establish and assist ministries across the United States and around the world for which I am extremely grateful.

My favorite genre of books to read would be the categories of Inspirational and Self-Help. Michelle McKinney Hammond, who happens to be one of my favorite authors and a personal friend, inspired me by her own writings to launch out and do the same. I have helped to write and edit books as well as church, leadership and Christian school manuals for our church, Christian schools and other organizations, but had never given much thought to publishing my own works until I was encouraged to do so by another friend, Rev. Connie Jackson. I will be forever grateful to her, Michelle and my family for the gifts in me that they have helped to nurture.

Ella: Who are the main characters in your book and what do you like most about them?

I am the main character and serve as the storyteller to introduce the reader to the profound moments in my life that helped to define who I am and what I was created to do. The transparency and candor utilized allow women to see themselves within the pages as they identify with real life issues that we often face.

I have even included anonymous women who have asked questions of me concerning relationships, parenting skills, career choices and the pursuit of purpose in their own lives. I love the fact that the lessons I've learned and the wisdom shared have proven to be helpful in the lives of countless women, and men for that matter, that have benefited from reading my book.

Ella: How does you book shape or add value to the reader's life?
Many who have read my book have already expressed how it has impacted them to the core, causing them to re-evaluate their perspective, relationships and habits while rediscovering who they are and pursuing what brings them joy. Here are just a few comments from others:

"In a time when many have abandoned the call to “teach the younger women…” Natalie Francisco emerges as a true Titus woman. As a modern day Proverbs 31 woman, she proves we can all be the women God created us to be if we are armed with the right truths to work with. So take the time to read, to absorb and then apply these rich lessons to your own life. But don't just stop there. Share the wealth with others. Wisdom for Women of Worth and Worship is a jewel of a book that has the potential to change the world one home at a time." - Michelle McKinney Hammond

"Your book is really wonderful. To be honest I have so many friends releasing books that I just had the opportunity to read yours. I thoroughly enjoyed it!! This is not a read through in a few sessions. It is a life manual that one needs to take the time to soak in. Kudos my dear! Love it! Love it!" - Pastor Tracie Davis

"I have been truly blessed by this book. It has helped me to understand that some of the things I felt I was dealing with alone, I'm really not alone. It helped me to realize that you have to let go of any fears that you have and be able to step into whatever your calling is with boldness, knowing that your worth and value as a woman of God is very important. The lessons in the book help to strengthen you and help you to be able to deal with some of the issues that are going on in your life. Also, I think men can read this book. The principles don't change. The lessons can help men understand what their wives or significant others are going through." - Rita LaVeist

"Your book is a wonderful resource for all women -- the cover alone is very impressive. I've added it to my collection of suggested reading for the women's groups that I facilitate weekly. I'm running a series of therapeutic support groups called Healthy Women/Healthy Relationships. We are delving into a lot of the topics that you cover and I'm sure that the ladies' experience will be enhanced by reading this book. I especially like the moments of meditation -- they really help to re-focus the mind and deepen self-awareness. GOD has blessed you with great insight and a beautiful gift of expression through writing. May the LORD continue to richly bless all that you do for HIS glory. May HE enlarge your territory and keep you in HIS perfect peace." - Minister Pamela LaVeist-Bell, LCPC

Ella: Ultimately, what do you want readers to gain from your book?
My greatest accomplishment would be for my book to contribute to the positive transformation of women who are empowered to excel beyond their wildest dreams personally, spiritually and professionally after reading it. God-consciousness, self-discovery and service to others would be the three-fold cord that I would desire for readers to hold onto without ever letting go.

Ella: Who would this book really "speak to" and why?
I initially wrote the book as the curriculum for my Women of Worth & Worship Institute classes. I soon realized that women regardless of age, race, ethnicity or socio-economic status should read, learn from and enjoy it. I have even been told by husbands, fathers and brothers of those who purchased the book for the special women in their lives that they have learned much from reading it and that the principles I share are also applicable to them.

Ella: What would you say has been your most significant achievement as a writer?
I was pleased to find out that my book was listed as number 13 on Black Christian Book Company's Top 50 Bestseller List of Black authors and Independent publishers soon after its release. In retrospect, however, I would have to say that receiving emails and reviews from others concerning their perspective of my book and how it has left an indelible mark upon them, fills my heart with unspeakable joy.

Ella: What advice would you give a new writer?
It is important to write about whatever moves you, for in doing so, others will be moved as well. I have found that people readily identify with fiction or non-fiction stories with subject matter that will speak to the heart and feed the mind. Writing then must be passionate and intellectually stimulating, and the writer must be first partaker of what he or she desires to communicate to others.

Ella: Name 3 things that it takes to make a successful author, in your opinion.
In order to be a successful author, one must enjoy reading and writing, networking with others, and consistently promoting one's own book.

Ella: What book already published is similar to your book in its writing style?
A number of books written by my friend Michelle McKinney Hammond are similar to my own in that the writing style is transparent, candid and thought-provoking, causing the reader to have an epiphany of sorts after encountering the book.

Ella: What can we expect from you in the future?
My next published book will be my dissertation written in 2000 entitled The New Demand for Christian Education: Targeting the Urban, African-American Community. I am also planning to write a book about effective parenting in the near future. In the interim, I will continue to offer year-round mentoring classes and seminars both onsite and online, as well as annual conferences and community outreach efforts to educate, encourage and empower women as well as middle and high school young ladies.

For more information regarding Dr. Natalie A. Francisco and the ministries:

Dr. Natalie A. Francisco, Founder/Executive Director
Women of Worth & Worship, LLC
P. O. Box 9853
Chesapeake, VA 23321
Email: wowwi@nataliefrancisco.com
Website: www.nataliefrancisco.com

Wisdom for Women of Worth & Worship: Lessons for a Life of Virtue, Value & Victory
by Natalie A. Francisco, Ed. D.
(Foreword by Michelle McKinney Hammond)
Websites: www.wisdomforwomenofworthandworship.com or www.wowwithebook.com

Purchase the paperback version or eBook format at www.nataliefrancisco.com.
(Also available at www.Amazon.com, www.Target.com, www.BlackCBC.com, and www.GospelLightBookstore.com.

(Coming soon online to Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Million, Borders and wherever fine books are sold.)

Dr. Natalie A. Francisco, Co-Pastor/Minister of Music
Calvary Community Church
2311 Tower Place
Hampton, VA 23666
Email: pastor@calvarycommunity.org
Website: www.calvarycommunity.org

Pat Simmons is the recipient of the Katherine D. Jones Award, presented at the 2008 Romance Slam Jam in Chicago, IL., for humility and grace. She is a Jesus baptized Believer and received the gift of Holy Ghost by the evidence of speaking in other tongues. She has worked as a news writer and assignment editor for a St. Louis television station for several years. Prior to that position, she was a talk show host, board operator, and a news reporter for various radio stations. She recently celebrated her twenty-fifth wedding anniversary and is the mother of two college students.

Pat Simmons is the co-publicist at Midwest Publicity, a two-woman public relations company. She handles media publicity for yearly Romantic Times BOOKLOVERS Conventions, securing author interviews for national bestselling authors like L.A. Banks, Bobbi Smith, Christina Skye, Heather Graham, and others via radio, television, and newspaper.

Pat Simmons holds a B.S. in Mass Communications from Emerson College in Boston, MA. Her hobbies/interests include researching her family genealogy. At least one character in her novels is based on information she has uncovered about him/her. Pat is a closet collector of greeting cards and tears up as she watches fighter jets race across the sky to mark the beginning of a sport event.

Pat Simmons is nosy by nature. She’s known for making friends where ever she goes, and being the life of the party—only if there’s four guests or less. Pat is considered a connoisseur of board games, and collects off-brand games that nobody wants to play so she bribes them with her tetrazzini. She praises God for the inspiration to write, and the “village people” for helping her get the job done. She is a contributor to the Essence Magazine best selling anthology, Love is Blind with Parry “Ebony Satin” Brown. She is the bestselling author of her debut novel Book I:Guilty of Love (September 2007). Her other works include Talk To Me (November 2008), and Book II: Not Guilty of Love (September 2009). Don't miss Book III: Still Guilty (April 2010) and Book IV: Free from Guilt (2011).

Ella: Tell us about your passion for writing. Why do you write? What drives you?
I like storytelling with happy endings--period. Fans are my driving force behind the Guilty series. Emails are so encouraging.

Ella: Finish this sentence: I am Powerful because...
Like David, I'm after God's own heart.

Ella: Where are you from? Missouri How did you start your writing journey?
After the encouragement from one author-Loure' Bussey who told me I could do it. I believed her and started writing. I could've strangled her after receiving a stack of rejections.

Ella: Who are your two main characters and what do you like most about them?
Malcolm Jamieson is a man's man: strong, educated, and in love with his woman. Hallison Dinkins is the woman who waited for the one man who is her heart's desire and then God asks the unthinkable of her. The choice is heart wrenching.

Ella: What makes your book stand out and would entice a reader pick it up?
First, it's Book II in the Guilty series and readers can't get enough of genealogists Parke and Malcolm Jamieson. Second, who would win a struggle to please God or yourself.

Ella: Ultimately, what do you want readers to gain from your book or poetry?
That God won't forsake us for sacrificing for Him.

Ella: What is the most surprising thing you have learned in creating books?
That characters really do come alive.

Ella: What would you say has been your most significant achievement as a writer?
An award from my peers, and the acceptance and encouragement from readers.

Ella: What advice would you give a new writer?
Stay on the course, be willing to get help from a professional editor. Don't stop writing. The right editor makes the difference. Guilty of Love was rejected a day before it hit the shelves.

Ella: Name 3 things that it takes to make a successful author, in your opinion?
Criticism, never stop dreaming, and believable characters and situations.

Ella: What can we expect from you in the future?
More in the Guilty series and a new series: The Carmen Sisters

Ella: Share with us your latest news, awards or upcoming book releases.
The Katherine D. Jones award for grace and humility. The upcoming releases are Still Guilty (April 2010), Free From Guilt (2011), Crowning Glory.

Author Pat Simmons
Katherine D. Jones Award Recipient. Christian fiction author bringing ancestors to life.

Talk to Me, Recognized as Top #14 Book of 2008 That Changed Lives
Guilty of Love, Book I, Award winner & National bestseller
Not Guilty of Love, Book II September 2009.
Still Guilty, Book III 2010.
Free from Guilt, Book IV
www.patsimmons.net

Toyi Ward is an author & media host. After ten years as a Fortune 100 sales & marketing executive, she pursued her writing career full-time. Her debut novel, Par for the Curse, examines the impact of generational secrets on the family. She is the host of “TOYi Talk-Authenticity with Attitude” on the Blog Talk Radio Network.

Toyi was awarded Top 50 Women in Business by NJBIZ magazine for her commitment to personal and professional achievement. She also holds a seat at The Center for Research on Violence Against Women (CRVAW) and The University of Kentucky Women & Philanthropy Leadership Council. While writing is work for her, she enjoys being able to work at any beach front location from Hilton Head, South Carolina to Cape Town, South Africa. She is married with two children.

Ella: Tell us about your passion for writing. Why do you write? What drives you?
I write for two reasons. The first is that I am pregnant with stories to create that just won't leave me until I write them. I have to write because God called me to it. It burns inside of me. I tried to NOT write, but my desire remained. The second reason I write is that I want to enlighten readers inside of an entertaining story. I write about family because families are the source of our society. When the family is functional, society is functional and the village thrives. Otherwise, everything is a mess.

Ella: A Legacy is something that is handed down from one period of time to another period of time. Finish this sentence- My writing offers the following legacy to future readers...
An ability to look into human flaws and dysfuction without judgment. I hope readers will enjoy my writing for generations and it will always be applicable to their families. I desire for my writing to bring about healing in family pain and forgiveness toward loved ones who made mistakes along the way.

Ella: Give us the synopsis of the book being discussed.

The men they love with never love them. The men who love them, they will never love. These simple but ominous words describe the complex situation in the life of Stormy Briggs. The drama in Stormy's life is caused by a curse put on her great-grandmother, Lila, over eighty years ago. The heart line of Grandma Lila's palm was sliced in two which led to a life void of love and lasting relationships. Though her cousins Riley and Lourdes accept the lot they have been given in life, an unexpected event forces Stormy to return New Orleans to investigate the origin of the curse.

Par for the Curse is unpredictable and not easily put into a box. This story was written to shed light on how we often hurt our family members with the best of intentions. Family secrets are most often meant to protect loved ones but instead end up being painful baggage carried for generations. Stormy is determined to rid herself and her family of the curse and the baggage once and for all.

Ella: Who are your two main characters and what do you like most about them?
Stormy is the main character in Par for the Curse. She is the "smart one" in this family of beautiful women. I love her because she is courageous. It takes a lot to confront secrets from the past and she pushes with full force to rid her family of this curse. Riley is Stormy's rowdy younger cousin. She has accepted the curse on her life and has decided to make the most of her loveless life by enticing men with her "assets". I love Riley because she is unapologetic about who she is. She's a mess and she knows it.

Ella: What makes your book stand out and would entice a reader pick it up?
Par for the Curse is a fast paced story that takes the reader through a range of emotions. Every chapter ends leaving the reader with a question of what more could happen to these women. It has elements of romance and mystery but is a work of fiction that captures real life dilemma's with drama you only want to read about in books.

Ella: Ultimately, what do you want readers to gain from your book or poetry?
First, I want readers to enjoy the story. I want them to be entertained and be satisfied once they have completed the book. I want them to think about their own lives and identify the negative patterns of behavior that have been passed on to them. Pack up that baggage and throw it out. Get rid of the family baggage and break generational curses in their own families.

Ella: What advice would you give a new writer?
Write the thing that you are afraid to write. When you feel exposed or uncomfortable writing something, that authenticity comes through to the reader. Go for it!

Ella: Name 3 things that it takes to make a successful author, in your opinion?
The persistence to keep writing, the desire to make each project better, and a continuous student of the craft.

Ella: What can we expect from you in the future?
Even I don't know what to expect. I'll go wherever God takes me and the canvas is blank. I'm committed to writing about the family and tackling tough issues that affect us all.

Website: http://www.TOYIWARD.com
TOYi Talk, The Blog: http://www.toyiward.com/blog

Par for the Curse Blog: http://parforthecurse.toyiward.com

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/toyiward
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/toyiward

Par for the CURSE, a novel is available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Million, Target, and everywhere books are sold.

Read about it on the Par for the CURSE Blog.
“What a refreshing story. For popular fiction the sentence structure is strong and could easily be literary in nature. The plot is well done and the ending does not disappoint. This is a genre busting display of originality. The character development is some of the best in popular fiction. Though the characters are mixed race African-Americans, their plight and appeal are universal. The depth and complexity of the family dynamics are perfectly crafted in a tale of love, support, and typical family tension. The character behavior is consistent throughout the novel and there was never any place that I felt a disconnect between character and behavior. It's funny, thought-provoking, and pure entertainment. I give this story an "A" and Toyi Ward a red carpet into fiction writing.” –Amazon Editorial Reviews, March 2009

Hello Patti! Welcome to Black Pearls, tell us a little about you and your family.
I’m Patti Lacy, a displaced Southerner who was gifted with teacher parents and a passion to read. In 2006, I left my beloved community college halls to set up a writing “room of my own” in the home I share with my teacher husband and a dog named Laura.

Ella: Where are you from? How did you start your writing journey?
I was born in the back seat of a Buick in Waco, Texas , grew up in the South, and now live in Normal, Illinois. I devour literary fiction, penned by Austen, Kingsolver, Morrison, Dostoevsky, Stegner, Hemingway, Gaines, and many, many more. Unlike many writers, I didn’t put anything on paper, except maudlin poetry and embarrassing love letters, until 2005, when Mary’s story refused to settle into my brain and keep quiet.

Ella: Tell us about your passion for writing. Why do you write? What drives you?
In 2005, God gifted me with a wonderful story about Mary, a brave Irishwoman who’d for years kept the secret of how she’d been betrayed by not one but two dysfunctional families.

I became obsessed with the secrets women keep and why they keep them. When the Still Small Voice kept whispering for me to capture Mary’s story on paper, I finally obeyed and penned my first novel, An Irishwoman’s Tale.

Why do I write? Because I HAVE TO! Stories and images bang on my skull and refuse to stop until I release them into a computer file. Hey, I’m 54 and want to share these stories for as long as God allows. That may be for another thirty years. Or it may be one…more…day.

Ella: What Legacy do you want to leave future readers?
My writing offers the following legacy to future readers: When a heart festering with pus-laden secrets is cut open and exposed to light and air, healing begins. Healing brings health. Healthy women can share with others to promote well-being.

Ella: Give us the synopsis of the book being discussed, What the Bayou Saw.

Sally Stevens, a chatty Midwestern college instructor, smothers her secrets with drawly talk, chocolate, and big-toothed smiles. Then the she-devil Katrina threatens her brother and Ella Ward, Sally’s former best friend, and three of Sally’s students are accused of assaulting a fourth student, Shamika Williams.

When a bigoted cop, Shamika’s mama tiger aunt, and Sally collide in Shamika’s hospital room, the past, which has been buried under Louisiana bayou mud, begins to bubble to the surface. Racism, sexual dysfunction, and the traumatic aftermath of assault reach across the span of time and threaten to destroy Sally’s tranquil life in Normal , Illinois . Dare Sally share her secrets with a hurting Shamika and risk exposing her own prejudices?

Ella: Who are your two main characters and what do you like most about them?
Segregation and a chain link fence separated twelve-year-old Sally Flowers from her best friend, Ella Ward. Yet a brutal assault bound them together. Forever. Thirty-eight years later, Sally, a middle-aged Midwestern instructor, dredges up childhood secrets long buried beneath the waters of a Louisiana bayou in order to help her student, who has also been raped. Fragments of spirituals, gospel songs, and images of a Katrina-ravaged New Orleans are woven into the story.

Sally Stevens, the 52-year-old college Humanities instructor whose friendly drawl and bubbly personality mask deep-rooted scars from a childhood rape. I admire Sally’s fierce devotion to her family and to her students.

Ella Ward, Sally’s middle-aged childhood friend who teams with Sally to kill a rapist and later faces betrayal at the hands of Sally. I love Ella’s professionalism, gift of healing, and ability to forgive an awful wrong.

Ella: How does this book shape or add value to the reader's life?
What the Bayou Saw emphasizes the importance of exposing the prejudice all of us harbor, in varying degrees, to the light of truth so that healing can begin. This my second novel also deals with the terrible aftermath in the souls of young girls because of sexual assault and the chilling statistic that even in homes with “good” communication, many crimes continue to go unreported. I also hope my book entertains the reader with a good story and a satisfying ending.

Ella: Ultimately, what do you want readers to gain from your book?
The need for dialogue about race issues in America to continue. The terrible human stain left by racism, sexual assault…and lies.

Ella: Who would this book really "speak to" and why?
My target audience is readers, especially women, between the ages of 25 and 100! Women have traditionally stoked the home fires, have shouldered abuse and misuse throughout the ages. By bonding with other women and honestly sharing our past, we put our heads together to better problem-solve. Think of cultures where women gather at the well to chat and chew. I hope to “chat and chew” with my readers!

Ella: What would you say has been your most significant achievement as a writer?
The humbling opportunity to reach out to one reader at a time. I love each one of you and appreciate your investment of time and money in my book.

Ella: What advice would you give a new writer?
Write for the Audience of One. Write because you’ve been given a talent. Work at it with your heart, your soul, and your mind. Read books. Study the great writers. Become a professional writer, no matter what other people say. Yes, you can.

Ella: Name three things that it takes to make a successful author, in your opinion.
The blessing of God. A crazy passion to read and write, knowing this passion will cost you dearly in other areas of your life but will give tremendous joy and sense of purpose. A solid foundation in crafting words, whether self-taught, through reading the works of literary giants (hopefully a combination of both).

Ella: What book already published is similar to your book in its writing style?
It’s hard to know something like that about one’s own work. I like to think that my voice is fresh and can’t be duplicated. That idiotic thought off my chest, perhaps the frame idea and regional dialect of Fried Green Tomatoes by Fannie Flagg and the visual imagery of Ella Cather.

Ella: What can we expect from you in the future?
My Name is Sheba, another framed story that begins in the rollicking Age of Jazz in New Orleans and ends in the red light district of Bangkok.

Ella: Share with us your latest news, awards or upcoming book releases.
An Irishwoman’s Tale, my debut novel, finaled in the Foreword Magazine Book of the Year contest. Winners will be announced at the Book Expo in New York City on May 29th. Wouldn’t it be cool to see y’all there???

Contact information:

Patti Lacy
patti@pattilacy.com
www.pattilacy.com

Books can be purchased anywhere books are sold, including Barnes & Noble, Borders, LifeWay Christian stores, and www.amazon.com.

This year by no means has been a year like we haven’t seen in a long time: Economic crisis, financial problems, foreclosures and loss of jobs. However, all is not lost, you can get back on your feet and you can do something about it. How about an annual financial check up?

We get check ups on our cars, our houses, our bodies and even our pets. So wouldn’t it only make sense to get an annual financial check up on our life?

We all have dreams and goals. However, certain financial obstacles may put a dent or act as a stop sign against our plans to achieve those goals.

There are many financial changes that can typically occur in any given 12 month- period: being laid off of a job, retirement, a natural disaster, a major purchase, an illness, the birth of a child, a marriage, a divorce, a death, cost of college, providing care for an elderly parent and so forth.

What does it mean to get an Annual Financial Check up?
Simply put, it is an annual review of your financial status. Typically, Financial Planners will collect a client’s data (check stubs, checking & credit statements, titles for homes, tax returns, insurance policies, etc.), prioritize their goals, examine resources, make recommendations and implement a plan according to the client’s needs and personal goals.

Whether you are single, married, or have a family, you should want to be in charge of your future. It’s vital to set both short and long-term financial goals. A Financial Planner can help you to achieve these long term goals. Regardless of what your financial situation is, there are Financial Planners who specialize in a variety of areas and cater to your financial needs.

How can you locate a Financial Planner ?
There are plenty of Financial Planners out there and the relationship you have with a Financial Planner will be very personal. So in addition, also be wary of people who call themselves Financial Planners. A genuine Financial Planner is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) that is regulated with the state, has an ethical obligation to act in your interest, has no ethical violations against them and follows a Code of Ethics, which consist of: Integrity, Objectivity, Competence, Fairness, Confidentiality, Professionalism and Diligence. The Financial Planner may work as a Sole Practitioner or with a company. The Financial Planning Association (FPA) and the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. (CFP) both provide listings of Certified Financial Planners throughout the United States.

What can you expect from a Financial Planner?
You can expect them to review your current financial situation thoroughly and honestly. Additionally, they will provide a financial portfolio for you. Depending on your needs and wants, they will help you stretch out the money you already have and can even help you invest the money you are earning. A Financial Planner is interested in helping you meet your long term financial goals for the future.

Lastly, have more control of your financial future in this unpredictable world. It is always important to save – even just a little bit for a rainy day. And allow an annual financial check up to be apart of your future.

Side Bar:

Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc.
1-800-487-1497
www.cfp.net

Financial Planning Association
1-800-322-4237
www.plannersearch.org

About the Author:
Tinisha Nicole Johnson resides in Denver, Colorado. She is an author, writer and poet. When it comes to writing, Tinisha ventures into many aspects of the writing scale – from articles to novels. Lastly, she also hosts political teleconferences. Learn more about the author at her website: www.TinishaNicoleJohnson.com

Smart Marketing Solutions: the Foundation

Before we can discuss marketing solutions, let’s get a clear picture of what marketing really is and the foundation you have to create before you can start the process of marketing. Marketing solutions will cover: the science of buying and selling books; the advertising, promotion, distribution and format of the books. It also covers the art of influencing people with your professional approach to writing and publishing a great book.

Many people confuse marketing with promotions and advertising, when the latter are elements of marketing not the process. At EDC Creations, we spend hours coaching our clients on the fact that marketing takes a dedication to learning, building relationships and establishing reachable goals. Marketing solutions will come from having a vision, a plan and the means to encourage readers to buy their books.

Marketing is the entire process by which you will identify your target audience, anticipate what they need and give the audience solutions and estimate their response. Once you know the audience, you will share your book with readers in a professional, appealing and cost effective way. Marketing is based on developing strong relationships to assist you in networking, advertising, promoting and gaining publicity. All of these fall under the umbrella of marketing. Marketing is the cart and the rest is what you fill it with. This will be a four part marketing lesson. Here goes the first installment.

Foundation for Creating Marketing Solutions

1) Write your vision on paper. Decide what it is you want at the end of the day. Brainstorm about ways to get the things you want and put them on paper so you can SEE where it is you really wanting to go. Think about your passions in life, the amount of money you have to invest, why you are really becoming a published author and what will this offer the reading community.

2) Create your marketing message. Your marketing message is a combination of the things that will later create your brand and determine how the reader will view you. It will tell your readers how you can solve their problems, why they should trust you, why they should buy your book and spread the word, also why they should keep supporting you later. The marketing message is the thing that will capture their attention.

Your marketing message is not created to solely tell them who YOU are. The entire marketing message is about telling your readers what your books can do for THEM. Even if it is a fiction book, it can show the reader how to deal with a difficult situation and come out on top. You have to share your unique ideas or style of writing to convey this message.

3) Define and identify who your target audience is and where they can be found. You can not reach all readers and your book is not for everyone. Use research to find those people who would benefit most from having your work in their hands.

4) Define the problems or issues surrounding this target; present your solution. When I say define the problem, I am not getting all political. It can be this simple: teens grow out of board books and children books. They now need books that will introduce them to puberty and peer pressure, the joys and ills of growing up. You can give them the solution by starting a teen series.

5) Present your results to the solution (a quality book) and tell them why they should select your book before any others. You will create wonderful marketing materials to capture their attention and you offer them your wisdom, experience, advice or a means to sheer entertainment in a well edited, properly produced book, at an affordable price.

6) Establish your brand and what it will take to strengthen it. Your brand is the vehicle that will take you to top of the book marketing game. Branding is the process of creating your image, the feelings, relationships, the actions and visual presentations your readers will come to associate with your name and the kind of books you put out. You will sell YOU as an AUTHOR as much as you will sell your message in your books.

7) Work on creating a network of people to help you with your marketing. You will need to create an internal support team, a social networking team, a business team and a publicity team to deliver your marketing message to the readers and publishing houses. You do this by communicating with others what you need, what you want and what you are willing to give to get it. Ask questions, do your research, seek help from the experts, but most of all really make relationships that will benefit you and the readers.

Now that we know what we are doing and have the foundation created to do it. Let’s get down to creating our marketing plan, marketing strategy and establish marketing solutions. The three all go hand in hand, it takes all three to be successful. My area of expertise is Internet Marketing, Promotions and Publicity. My contributions this month will focus primarily on those areas. Keep following the blog for more.

Ella Curry, president of EDC Creations Media Group
Visit our website at: www.edc-creations.com

I recently wrote an article on the question, "Does Narrowing Your Niche Really Work?" I wrote about all the positive results from having narrowed my personal niche and how it has benefited me in many ways by doing so.

I thought I would break it down to some simple steps on how to narrow your niche just incase you have no idea what I'm talking about. It's okay if you don't, I had to learn this like anyone else but I want to share it with others because I love to see others succeed.

Before you can begin narrowing your niche market home business you have to find your niche market home business first. I have an article that says just that on my website called "Finding Your Niche Market". Check it out.

Once you have found a couple prospects, you are considering then it comes down to which ones you are going to focus on. So here is how I came to the conclusion of mine:

1. Check Market Value: There's a page on Google Adwords, where you can look up any niche prospect and see if there is a market for what you want to do. It tells you the competitions you have by how many people are paying Google to advertise that particular niche. It also tells you how popular the niche market is by how many searches are made on that particular niche market.

2. Self-Evaluation Questions: Do you believe this is the business for you? Can you see yourself still doing this in five or ten years? Do you enjoy doing it, or have a passion or love for this niche? Do you have the skills and abilities to do it? Do you have the time and effort to do this? Are you willing to make some investment in this, financially and personally?

3. Consider the Cost: Making an investment is not only money but time and sacrifices. There's always a cost to any commitment so be realistic of what you can and are willing to commit to and take some time to consider the answers to your questions, the market and your time and abilities to work and manage this niche business.

4. Have a Vision: The bible says without vision the people parish. Vision is needed to bring purpose with goals and a destination. Without vision you are just floundering with no purpose. After answering the self-evaluation questions, take some time to really think it out, project your business plan, write it out and have a vision for it. See the bigger picture.

When you make the time to think things through and consider your options and choices, it can make a difference on the final decisions you make. They are more thought out, guided and have direction and purpose.

When narrowing your niche make the decision that's best for you. After all, the whole reason you are starting a business is for you right? One more thing, don't let money be your deciding factor. Remember that it's not just about making money it's about starting a business that has potential to be successful and that will benefit you financially as well as personally.

You can view more of my home business articles on my website and make a copy of "Finding Your Niche Market".

Filoiann M. Wiedenhoff is a pastor's wife, work at home mom, Woman's Biblical Counselor, Bible Teacher and Writer. View her website for more articles http://filoiannwiedenhoff.com

Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com CHRISTIAN WRITERS

He was an Angel, an answer to my prayer. I moved to Trinidad, West Indies, in May 2002 away from all that was familiar and my children, family, friends. Then, he appeared.

Brian Thomas was a remarkable man. A devoted father and role model, often just the mention of his name would put a smile on the face of his associates and our friends. Not only did he blanket me in his affection, time, peaceful manner and joy for life, he also impacted all who met him.

The sun was brazing hot, the sky a perfect clear blue. I was lost looking for the cleaners before returning to work. As I parked my car I noticed him standing with his friend at the entrance of the cleaners offering to help. When I left the cleaners he approached me, we talked and after that initial encounter we never separated.

He was beautiful to look at tall, dark and lean, the epitome of good health. His commanding personality floated into a room. It filled space. In the midst of the crowd you were the center of his attention. He engaged you with his smile full of perfect white teeth and piercing brown eyes that seemed to know your all secrets. Laughing loud, giving hugs and kisses he was a social, talkative person sincerely concerned when he asked how you were doing. Always with a smile on his face, the curiosity of a child, and a free spirit he seemed to love everybody and everybody loved him. But, Brian also had a quiet somber side. When I asked, “Why are you so serious, so solemn?” He replied, “Baby, I’m just thinking about life, just trying to keep things going, thinking about the job, my son, our relationship.” Brian loved life and adored his son, Nathan. He was a caring dedicated father, often saying, “That’s my boy, I just love him up!” He often shared, “Earnell, you notice you don’t hear my phone ring . . . it’s only you and Nathan who call me.”

Brian was abandoned at two years old. Although he had parents and siblings he wondered why he never had visitors, received a birthday card or a Christmas gift growing up in Saint Mary’s Children’s Home. When he was released from the home at age 16 he had to support for himself, which he did in a strong independent Christian manner. He was not bitter. He often returned to visit the young men who lived at the Home, to take them out or employ them in his small car wash business. He had a heavy heart, considering his very difficult and lonely childhood, but in spite of, he was a proud, forgiving and confident Black man serious about his health, physical appearance, integrity and manner. Family, helping others, giving and receiving love were the desires of his heart. I never heard him raise his voice, curse or show disrespect. How could one not love such a powerful man?

Brian confessed early in our relationship that he had three dreams and he realized them all . . . not many of us can say that. Armed with only an eleventh grade education he wanted to own a pest control company and establish the Brotherhood Empowerment Movement. Brain also wanted an endearing relationship where he could give as well as receive true committed love, “a relationship that could make you cry just to think of your partner.” I later learned the “cry thing” was just male Trini talk.

Not long after we met he established and operated the Xtinct Pest Control Company. A hard worker, still facing disappointments of non-payment and canceled appointments, he persevered often saying, “Baby, if you have something to do you should do it well. Everything will be alright. It can only get better.”

The Brotherhood Empowerment Movement was his dream “to forge a sense of belonging among displaced people that would empower them to realize they fullest potential.” He did not establish this Movement, but better yet, reached many young children as a motivational speaker with the Inter Cultural of the Performing Arts Organization of Trinidad and Tobago, sponsored by the Ministry of Education. Brain visited the public secondary schools and spoke to over two thousand children sharing his youth experiences at St Mary’s advocating that they too should strive to have a positive responsible life. He was enthusiastic and serious about this contribution, happy to give of himself.

When we first met he would call and we would talk for hours. Sometimes he’d call me five or six times a day! I thought, what’s wrong with this guy? Over time I realized his attention was genuine. Brian was very good to me! He’d always say, “I’ll take care of it, everything is going to be all right, let me do it for you,” and he did. He was a praying man. I remember the first time we went to church together, it was unbelievable. He didn’t just go to church, he was there, I could see God in him. He worshipped! Kept saying how happy he was to be there. And, he could sing, too! Oh, did I mention he blew a mean sax and played the piano like angels in heaven. When we visited my Mother at her Assisted Living residence he spent time talking and praying with her, he also visited the other residents and made them laugh. Brian was serious about getting me back and forth from the airport. I traveled a lot and he felt someone should always be there to greet you when you arrived home from a trip. No matter how often or the lateness of the hour he was there to take me or pick me up. Sometimes he would make me a sandwich to travel with or make me coffee. We’d cook, eat together and talk for hours. He asked about my day, my plans or how my day went at work. We danced, did everything, went everywhere together, visited the beach on Christmas day. He was generous, gentle, thoughtful, playful, kind, passionate about life, supportive and concerned. With Brian I had no worries. As he always said to me, “Baby, everything will be alright,” and it was.

March 2005, I had a bad tooth. Early Thursday morning I visited the dentist. On the way home he asked what he could do to make me feel better. He spent the day preparing me homemade vegetable soup and fresh squeezed orange juice so I would have something manageable to eat. Friday morning on the way to work we talked, said he loved me and that he may surprise me with a lunch date. Friday evening his friend called to say Brian died, unexpectedly, that afternoon.

It was a short, but gratifying relationship, from August 26, 2002 until March 4, 2005. His life was brief, but full. He blessed us with his presence, his love, joy and laughter from September 28, 1963 to March 4, 2005. I thank God for my Angel, Brian and our precious time together.

Why Does It Hurt?

Why does this love lost hurt so bad?
Because I loved him most, just before he left.
We were so close.
The earth stood still whenever he assured me,
“Baby, I’ll take care of it,”
and he always did.
We just fit!

He let me rub his feet and between his toes,
Trim his mustache,
hold his hand and
fix his plate,
And, whenever I asked myself, “What can I do for him?”
It was because of who he was and what he gave
Love and Joy to everyone.

Why does this love lost hurt so bad?
Because life doesn’t always give you what you want
But he satisfied
My every need with
Kindness,
Attention,
Affection,
An ear to my soul.
We were so close. . .
Home every day.
Calls every day.
Love every day.

The sound of his key in the door . . .
“Baby ”
“You’re so soft”
“You look nice”
“I miss you.”
Why does this love lost hurt so bad?
Because I can’t
Touch him or
Rub him
I can’t talk to him, or
dance with him,
hold or sleep with him.
No, I can’t even Thank him.

We were so close.
We spoke just this morning
Laughed
“How do you feel”
“Everything will be all right”
“I Love you, Baby”
“Enjoy your day.”
And then,
He died.

Written by Earnell Brown
Email Earnell" < ebrown4791@aol.com >

What's It All About Nesheba? - Inspirational & Spiritual Book Collection
By. Nesheba

Essential Spirit Enterprises, Inc. is proud to announce ESpiritE- Inspirations creative division. As our creative venue for our self-published author Nesheba and resource division. Sharing Words of inspiration, encouragement, and spirituality.

What’s It All About Nesheba? – Audio Book Excerpt
[Click the image, then the play button when the site opens]

ESpiritE, - Inspirations. Words of Inspiration, reflection from within our journeys inspires you from within, thereby spreading infectiously to inspire others... Enjoy and be inspired By. Nesheba's - What's It's All About Nesheba? Book Collection Series. Journey with Nesheba exploring thoughts like: From: Chapter 1 - Book Series 1 Purpose of the Journey... "The sooner we discern the purpose, those special gifts things we enjoy that come naturally in lay our treasures...Now, these gifts that lead to our treasures are Blessed by God {{KJV - Job 22:25, Luke 12:34}.

The greatest treasure and most precious is to know God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. Our greatest gift is to KNOW LOVE {KJV - 1 Corinthians 13:13}. AGAPE is unconditional love that surpasses all understanding, but by knowing this type of LOVE we can know God we can KNOW HIS HEART..." Shared through Purpose of the Journey; Ever Evolving; and Pressing On...

What's It All About Nesheba? - sold as a Inspirational & Spiritual Book Collection Series consisting of Three Titles, which can be purchased separately or as the collection:

-Purpose of the Journey:
Throughout my life I've run across young & old who do not know the Purpose of Their Journey. I address some of the thoughts one may examine in the process as you travel through this journey of life towards your Purpose...

-Ever Evolving:
Well once we've identified the Purpose of the Journey you must continue Ever Evolving. Ever Evolving towards your growth, development, and desire to live the dreams & visions of tomorrow... Ever Evolving as you are Reaching for the Stars and Daring to be Different...

-Pressing On:
O.K. you've discovered the Purpose of the Journey, you're continuing to Ever Evolve now you must always Press On no matter the trials & tribulations. Pressing On must become the motto that you rehearse in times of trouble. Knowing that since God gave us these wonderful anointed gifts to share with the world...

What's It All About Nesheba? - Inspirational & Spiritual Book Collection Series By. Nesheba
Is available through Amazon.com

ESpiritE - Inspirations
Email: ESpiritE-Inspirations@espirite.net
Website: http://www.espirite.net/entrepreneurialcorner/espiriteinspirations.html
Nesheba of ESpiritE Host on BlogTalkRadio: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/ESpiritE

Nicole Morgan, author and publisher, is the devoted wife of gospel musician/producer, PJ Morgan and mother of two. An advocate for healthy relationships, Nicole is an authority on what it takes to make a relationship work; and as such, has developed a series of workshops entitled, "Make It Work." She currently resides in Lanham, MD.

Ella: Please finish this sentence: My writing offers the following legacy to future readers...
My writing offers the following legacy to future readers... Learn to be unselfish with your life. The sharing of your story could be the catalyst for change in someone else's life. If you have a joke, tell it. It could mean the difference for someone thinking of suicide. Give your last. Your today's last may be someone else's all. Find time to share a hug. God created us all with one common heart and that makes us family. Sometimes we need only to feel the power of that common drum, the heartbeat of our sister or brother beating against our chest to know that, everything is going to be alright.

Ella: Where are you from? How did you start your writing journey?
I am from Bronx, NY. I have always loved to write and mostly used writing as a catharsis. When I began to
travel with my husband, I met women who seemed to share my experiences as a ministry wife but were
struggling with issues that I'd either already confronted, or God had given me the answer to. It was then
that my journals began to take a different turn and my professional writing journey began. My journals went
from something that I used to help me, to a tool that I could use to help someone else.

Ella: Give us the synopsis of the book being discussed, Half Minister/Half Mistress- the Life of a Ministry Wife:

Have you ever been at a point in your relationship where your mind and heart are wandering and you are wondering what happened to the man/woman you married? What happened to the man/woman you were when you got married? Lack of communication/miscommunication, affairs, lack of support, intimacy/sex, forgiveness, etc...these are just a few of the issues that "hamper the happy" in today's relationships. Add to that the pressures of living life in your dual role as a ministry wife (musician's wife! pastor's wife!), and you have a recipe for drama! This book is the roadmap through all of these issues and more, to aid in finding that person again-even and especially if, the person that needs to be found is you!

Ella: What makes your book stand out and would entice a reader to pick it up?
Half Minister/Half Mistress- the Life of a Ministry Wife -- The cover art and title are pretty catchy! Once a reader glimpses the title, they are always interested in knowing exactly what they are getting between the cover! Most importantly, my book stands out because of its content. It addresses taboo issues within relationships head on and offers solutions, practical and biblical, for restructuring the dynamic of any failing relationship. Statistics prove that the family system and relationships are on a downward spiral based on divorce rates, increased suicide rates, and economic instability, to name a few. Half & Half offers tools for the reader to regain momentum in their relationships and prevent the struggling person(s) from becoming the next victims.

Ella: Ultimately, what do you want readers to gain from your book?
There are three goals that I had in mind when I wrote this book, Half Minister/Half Mistress- the Life of a Ministry Wife. The first is to give men and women alike an inside look and a road map into the heart of the other. When I talk to people about why they are or have broken up, the answers they give me all have the same underlying reason, "there was a problem, and we couldn't find a way to work it out." This book offers real-life and proven strategies for killing the small foxes that spoil the relationship vine.

Secondly, I wrote the book to offer readers insight on how the lessons that we learned from our experiences as children and adolescents from the adults in our lives, play a major role in the success or failure of our own relationships. I've found that sometimes people exhibit behaviors that they attribute to "just being them" that are actually learned, but need to be unlearned in order to achieve success in their relationships. The book aids in teaching readers how to properly identify such behaviors and what to do after that.

Lastly, I would want readers to gain a sense of camaraderie with me and other women who occupy the roles that we do as wives, and even more so, as ministry wives.

Ella: What is the most surprising thing you have learned in creating books?
The most surprising thing that I've learned is how much I learned about myself in the process of creating this book. That may sound strange, but as I poured myself onto the pages, I could see myself as though I were a stranger meeting someone new. There were things that my heart wanted to say that only my pen could convey. And as it did, I reached out to hold this new friend and embrace all of the things that she was teaching me about loving, and living, and throwing out the things of old in order to make room in my heart for the new- about me.

Ella: What would you say has been your most significant achievement as a writer?
I would say that my most significant achievement as a writer has been meeting people who have read my book, felt in their hearts what mine was trying to convey, and hugging them as they whisper in my ear, "Your book has changed my life."

Ella: What advice would you give a new writer?
HAVE A PLAN!!! Sometimes, as creative people, we love to explore every thought that comes to mind, and expound on every whimsical idea that we have. But that sort of thing will lead to a book that is disjointed and hard to follow (because your mind and writing are everywhere), or just not complete (because you could never finish all of the 289 thoughts you had). So, create a cohesive plan. Figure out exactly how you'd like to move from point A to point Z, and stick to it.

Ella: Name 3 things that it takes to make a successful author, in your opinion?
1. Learning to separate yourself from the work and let others give you insight into making it better than you envisioned it. 2. Staying true to your voice. Learn style, technique and self-editing (in your writing) but staying true to the story your heart wants to write, makes one a successful author. 3. Persevere. There will be large distractions, moments of writers block, self-doubt, and...life. Life will happen and attempt to get in the way. But make getting your book done your priority no matter what. You'll find that all of those things will still be waiting for you on the other side of becoming a published author, so persevere.

Ella: What can we expect from you in the future?
Aside from Part II of Half and Half, I am working on finishing the snippet that is featured at the end of Half and Half entitled, I MUST Be a Sex Fiend! It is a fictional work that follows one woman's trip down the road to self-discovery as she explores her relationship with sex and sexual addiction.

Ella: Share with us your latest news, awards or upcoming book releases.
I started Crooked Parts to publish my first book. Its success and the favor of God have allowed me to acquire new projects, some of which will be out by Christmas of this year. They include three autobiographies, the first of which details the life of a man who grew up during the Depression and went on to own his own business despite illiteracy. The second chronicles the trials and triumph of a domestic violence survivor. The third is a very powerful illustration of one woman's faith in the midst of egregious adversity. My other works include a fiction novel and a poetry collective.

Outside of the creative writing projects that we are doing, I host a series of workshops called "Making It Work" that are designed to take the mystery out of what makes a successful marriage and help couples attain it. We are in the process of enlarging the "Making It Work" series to include "MIW-Parents and Teens," and "MIW- Siblings." Simultaneously, I am in preparation to launch a Women's conference in 2010.

Half Minister/Half Mistress- the Life of a Ministry Wife can be viewed and purchased at:
http://www.crookedparts.com

Requests for "Making It Work", requests for book signings and book club meetings can be addressed to: celestehall@crookedparts.com

For information on writing/getting published: info@crookedparts.com

Crooked Parts Publishing
Where Sophistication and Creativity Meet!
Nicole Morgan, Owner
P.O. Box 826 Bowie, MD 20718
nicolemorgan@crookedparts.com
http://www.crookedparts.com

Jacquie Lewis-Kemp, author of soon to be released Blessed Assurance: Success Despite the Odds, tells the story of her unlikely life highlighting three main themes—juvenile diabetes, a young, African American female CEO of an automotive manufacturing company, kidney failure and organ transplants. Jacquie educates others how to incorporate the tedious regimen of chronic illness into a busy life rather than limit life because of chronic illness.

--- Tell us about your passion for writing. Why do you write? What drives you?
I have always loved to write. My earliest memory of enjoying to write was at 10 years old when my ballet teacher assigned us the task of choreographing a dance and writing an essay describing it. From that point on, I’ve always found it a joy to express myself in writing. I’ve had articles published throughout high school and college and wrote therapeutically after the birth of my son. Whenever I am spiritually and emotionally moved to write, I write. Things that drive me to write include injustice, to inform, and when I recognize God’s work, as in Blessed Assurance.

Ella: A Legacy is something that is handed down from one period of time to another period of time. Finish this sentence- My writing offers the following legacy to future readers...
My writing offers a legacy to remain focused on living life while managing a chronic illness such as diabetes and/or kidney disease, rather than allowing the illness to become our lives. So often when people are faced with a chronic illness, it becomes the center and focus of their lives. “No, I can’t go there because they’ll be serving foods that I can’t eat” or “No I can’t do that because I have to test my blood sugar/monitor my blood pressure/do dialysis at that time”. The legacy I hope to pass on is that we no longer have to stop living in order to manage diabetes or kidney disease.

Ella:   Where are you from? What is your favorite genre? How did you start your writing journey?
I am from Michigan and currently live in Bloomfield Hills, MI. My favorite genre is non-fiction, because real stories inspire me. I began writing this book because a friend and business mentor suggested that I write down the stories if for no other reason for my son to read.

Ella: Give us the synopsis of the book being discussed.
Blessed Assurance: Success Despite the Odds is author Jacquie Lewis-Kemp's story that tells of the ups and downs for a juvenile diabetic at different ages. It details struggles of long term complications of retinopathy (bleeding blood vessels in the retina) and kidney failure. Behind every valley is a mountaintop, and so her kidney failure was followed by a heroic kidney transplant from her brother. And as if that wasn't blessing enough, eighteen months later she received a follow on pancreas transplant, ending 33 years of insulin dependence and best preserving her new kidney.

All was not stable however, four short months after the pancreas transplant, her immunosuppression made her vulnerable to the West Nile virus. The moving story of her spiritual journey during the month long hospital stay and months of recovery is the major reason for writing the book.

The medical story of managing juvenile diabetes, its complications and organ donation is a fascinating one by itself, however if necessity is the mother of invention, then doubt and skepticism must be the catalyst for success. Jacquie believes that juvenile diabetes creates an insatiable desire to succeed. The requirement to control blood sugars within a tight range creates a college student with good time management skills who double majors and completes a master’s degree all within five years. That same Spirit also assures a young African American woman working for her father’s manufacturing plant that she can step into his shoes as CEO after his sudden death and she is just 31 years old. He even tells her that with proper management she can give birth to a blood-sugar-normal baby. She can do all those things through Christ who strengthens her, hence Blessed Assurance: Success Despite the Odds.

Ella: Who are your two main characters and what do you like most about them?
The main characters are me and my family. Being able to stand back and see God’s timing and how he ordered my steps is phenomenal.

Ella: How does this book shape or add value to the reader's life?
I hope that this book will be a companion, an example of how to manage diabetes and it’s complications for anyone affected by diabetes (the diabetic, family, friends, colleagues, bosses . . .) and organ transplant.

Ella: Ultimately, what do you want readers to gain from your book?
I want people to realize that a diagnosis of diabetes or kidney disease doesn’t mean life is over. That with planning and discipline, life can be just as wonderful as it was, if not more wonderful.

Ella: Who would this book really "speak to" and why?
This book speaks to anyone affected by diabetes, or its complications, specifically retinopathy and kidney disease; those affected by kidney failure and organ transplant. I hope that this book can be used by physicians to recommend to their patients as a guide on how to live with diabetes and how to survive kidney failure and transplant.

Ella: What would you say has been your most significant achievement as a writer?
Completing the book, finding a publisher and receiving positive responses from people exposed to the advanced marketing of it.

Ella: What advice would you give a new writer?
Write about what you are passionate about. Write and write without ceasing. When you can’t think of anything else to write about, look at it and make structural sense of it.

Ella:   Name 3 things that it takes to make a successful author, in your opinion?
1. Write about something people want to read about.
2. Write in a style that will hold the reader’s attention.
3. Write humbly.

Ella: What book already published is similar to your book in its writing style?
The Last Lecture

Ella:   What can we expect from you in the future?
I would like to continue writing about diabetes and organ donation and transplant. I have considered writing books for different ages—children, young adults, etc.

Ella:   Share with us your latest news, awards or upcoming book releases.
I volunteer at the University of Michigan Transplant Center, The National Kidney Foundation, MOTEP (Minority Organ and Tissue Education Program), and Gift of Life. I was honored in the 2009 publication of Who’s Who in Black Detroit.

Ella: Contact Jacquie Lewis-Kemp, Author for speaking engagements.
An executive wife and mother’s inspirational story of multitasking work, diabetes, and organ transplant and how God prepares, protects and enables us to succeed despite the odds.

Book: Blessed Assurance: Success Despite the Odds

My Blog Site: www.jlewiskemp.wordpress.com and My Email: jacmimi@aol.com

Poet, writer and author, Arnita L. Fields has published to date three collections of Christian poetry. “Rescued, Restored, Renewed & Revived” (2006), “And the Beat Goes On” Poems from a Restored Marriage (2007), THE WORD…A Poetry Connection” (2009). Arnita is also a contributing author in the “This Far by Faith” anthology (2007)

Ella: Tell us about your passion for writing. Why do you write? What drives you?
My passion and drive for writing comes directly from my personal relationship with God. There are some days when I get an idea or thought in my heart about a particular topic and I have to sit down and type it out at that very moment. I know that when I am led to write a poem or an article that someone somewhere will be blessed because of my obedience. I love writing about subjects that will help to bring life, joy, peace and restoration to people everywhere.

Ella: A Legacy is something that is handed down from one period of time to another period of time. Finish this sentence- My writing offers the following legacy to future readers...
Because it let’s them know that it is okay to be true to who they really are as a individual. We are all uniquely made and God has a plan and a destiny for each of us to follow. Future readers will be able to see that one touch from God can help to lead them into their divine destiny.

Ella: Give us the synopsis of the book being discussed.
My soon to be released book America’s Change…A Poetic View is a collection of 16 poems written both before and after the election of our nations first Afro American President. The poems in this collection are poems that will help to encourage people not to look at only our past, but forward to the future as we embrace the change that God has predestined our nation to go through. God has change not only for America, but for His people. Are we willing to answer the call?

Ella: Where are you from? Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Ella: How did you start your writing journey?
I actually began writing in grade school, but really got into my present ministry of writing in 2000.

Ella: What makes your book stand out and would entice a reader pick it up?
I believe that what makes my book stand out is the fact that the poems written in this collection will help to lead people out of their past pains and hurts and back into the arms of a loving God. I feel that many people are ready for a change in their lives and the title alone will entice the curious to take a look.

Ella: Ultimately, what do you want readers to gain from your book?
I want them to experience freedom from their past and old mindsets. I also want people to know that when they humble their hearts and turn back to God, that the change they have been waiting for is really closer than they thought.

Ella: What is the most surprising thing you have learned in creating books?
The fact that I can understand any of the publishing the process. I truly enjoy seeing the puzzle pieces fit all together during the publishing process.

Ella: What would you say has been your most significant achievement as a writer?
Publishing my third collection of poetry through my own publishing company, I am still rejoicing at what God has done.

Ella: What advice would you give a new writer?
That they first search their heart to be sure that they are willing to commit to a career of writing. Secondly, that in becoming a writer they will need to become a seeker of information, writers have to make sure that the information they put before their readers is not only accurate but beneficial to living out their everyday lives.

Ella: Name 3 things that it takes to make a successful author, in your opinion?
1. Passion and drive
2. Vision
3. A support system (trustworthy people around them)

Ella: What can we expect from you in the future?
I am working on a re-edit of a marriage workbook that I wrote in the spring of 2006. This workbook is geared towards couples who have or are experiencing a marital separation. It will include information that will help couples to reconcile before going to the divorce court. This re-edit will be co-authored with Anthony, my husband of twelve years.

Ella: Share with us your latest news, awards or upcoming book releases.
I am currently a full time college student majoring in Psychology with future plans of counseling marriages in a retreat like setting. I’m so excited about this new chapter in my life.

Arnita L. Fields Poet, Writer, Author, Publisher
Author of THE WORD....A Poetry Connection -- In 2009, it is time to possess the land!!!!

Email
Personal arnitafields@yahoo.com
Holy Poetry Publications info@holypoetrypublications.net
Victorious Magazine arnita@victoriousmagazine.com

Web
Holy Poetry Publications www.holypoetrypublications.net
Personal www.arnitalfields.net
Victorious Magazine www.victoriousmagazine.com

Connect with author Arnita L. Fields Online
Author, Poet, Publisher and a woman after God's own heart.
Twitter: www.twitter.com/arnitafields
MySpace: www.myspace.com/arnita_fields
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/people/Arnita-L-Fields/1543485299

Wanda Manning, author, speaker and poet, published work consist of “Harvesting the Fruit of the Spirit”, and her latest release, “Inherited Sin”. She lives in Detroit, MI where she hosts “A New Day is Dawning”, radio broadcast and manages the affairs of her company Mind-to-Manuscript. The “A New Day is Dawning” broadcast airs in Detroit, Michigan on WDRJ 1440, Christian Radio. M-T-M is a publishing company that bridges the gap from dreams to reality—a place where writers become published authors.

Ella: Wanda, tell us about your passion for writing. Why do you write? What drives you?
I have a passion for writing because it allows me to channel my creative energy. It gives me the satisfying allusion of being in control of the universe—to manipulate the world and people as I chose according to the limits of my imagination.

Ella: Finish this sentence: I am Powerful because...
I am a dreamer with determination, and faith in God to believe that all things are possible through Christ. There is no room for the phrase I can’t in my life. Two years ago I put my faith to the test and took a buyout from my job with Ford Motor Company to pursue my dreams. As a result I have two published books, started my own book coaching service and in the process of starting my own publishing company.

Ella: Where are you from? How did you start your writing journey?
I’m from Detroit, MI and my writing journey began in the early days of elementary school when I realized I loved writing short stories and poetry. My love for writing intensified as I became older and kept journals and entered writing contests.

Ella: Give us the synopsis of the book being discussed, Inherited Sin.

Inherited Sin is a book about generational curses, as a father and son war against each other. The son desperately tries to resist his inherent nature to take on the same low down characteristics of his father. The story is about four generation of adulterous, miserable, coning and manipulative men, and while these negative traits are powerful, Inherited Sin is a story of how the power of God can overcome all things, even generational curses. It is a story fill with drama, passion, faith and above all love—the love of family, the love of dreams, and the love of a patience God who uses time to heal broken relationships.

Ella: Who are your two main characters and what do you like most about them?
The main two characters in my book are Roc and Sadie Mae. The thing I appreciate about Roc is his confident attitude about himself and determination to be the best that he can be. I adore Sadie Mae for her faith and love she has for God and her family. She is a strong black woman and the rock that builds a strong foundation for those that love her to stand on.

Ella: What makes your book stand out and would entice a reader pick it up?
The message of generational curses is relevant and necessary. My book will entice readers because there is evidence of generational curses in most families and my book will address in an entertaining manor of how to rid ourselves of unwanted curses.

Ella: Ultimately, what do you want readers to gain from your book or poetry?
It is my hope that the readers gain a strong sense of faith in family and even greater faith in the restoration power of God.

Ella: What is the most surprising thing you have learned in creating books?
The most surprising thing I have learned is if you put your mind to it you can achieve anything even writing a book.

Ella: What would you say has been your most significant achievement as a writer?
The most significant achievement as a writer is that I have become a published author.

Ella: What advice would you give a new writer?
The advice I would give to new writers is to surround yourself with people who believe in your writing gift and befriend a good editor who will be truthful even when the truth hurts.

Ella: Name 3 things that it takes to make a successful author, in your opinion?
The three things I think it takes for a writer to be successful is first believe in themselves, secondly be dedicated and devoted to writing at all time and lastly to be determine to follow through with completing a manuscript.

Ella: Share with us your latest news, awards or upcoming book releases.
The latest news in my life is the new release of my first novel, “Inherited Sin”, as a follow-up to my first release “Harvesting the Fruit of the Spirit”, and finally publishing my next release under my own publishing company.

Fruits of Christian Writing
To All the Christian Writers, Poets, Speakers and Authors
by Shelia E. Lipsey

1) Be Filled
I believe since we are Christians, and if God has indeed truly blessed us with the talent of writing, or being authors, then we must be filled in our spirit, our mind, our thoughts, and our actions with the presence of the spirit of God. We do have some Christians who are writers/authors but there is no evidence of their faith and acceptance of Jesus as their Lord and Savior when you read their works. It’s easy to get caught up in the world and its trappings. Just look around.

We see everyday the grandeur and success of actors and actresses and speakers and writers, who profess to be one of us but it isn’t evident in the things they do with their talents. I really am not the one to say that they are not, because each of us fall short of the mark, we are all sinners, it’s just that the Christian is saved by Grace. But this further upholds my belief that in everything we do, it should lead back to Christ. In everything we write, God should be seen in it.

With my first inspirational novel, entitled Always, Now and Forever, I was told over and over again that if I added some raw sex and profanity throughout then I would be sure to have a bestseller! I would probably be touring the United States as I speak. But I’m not. I’m not going to tell you that I didn’t contemplate what I was being told, but I knew that I just couldn’t go this route. I had to write in the manner in which God led and leads me to write.

I am filled with God’s presence in my life and I want to always seek and obey His will and His way in my life. Would I like to make lots of money? Sure I would? Would I like to achieve financial gain and wealth from my writing? Sure I would. The fact is that it is more than possible for me to achieve earthly treasures while carrying out the will of God. But these earthly treasures are not my priority. My priority is to allow God to speak to me and through me whether I am speaking before audiences or whether I’m sitting down working on my next novel. I desire to store up eternal treasures. I desire to travel the roads that God has for me. I don’t know always know where the roads lead, but I know that God will not lead be astray. He is the giver of every good and perfect gift. So I can rest assured that as He continually fills me, he continually blesses me and opens up doors for me and closes the doors that are not for me. So remember, “Be Filled.” Next:

2) Be Faithful
Don’t be swayed to give in or give up. If you have truly been given this talent, then use it. You can only call yourself a writer if you’re writing. If you’re going to become a Christian author, you must start out as a Christian writer. I have come to believe that there is no such thing as a person who says, “I want to be a writer” but then he/she is not. All I have to say to that person is “write.” Whatever God has blessed us with, whether big or small, we should remain faithful to that calling.

I have often said that I write to share with others. I write because God has seen fit to bless me with this talent. I write as a means of sharing my innermost thoughts, the faithfulness of God, and the desires of my heart with others. I remain faithful to this calling. Being faithful like being focused doesn’t’ require that you write everyday. You will hear many authors or writers tell you that you should write something every single day. I don’t fall into this category. There are times that I write everyday, but it’s only when the Holy Spirit tells me to do so. I have gone weeks without writing per se, and then the Holy Spirit speaks to me and tells me “its time.” He is telling me, Shelia, my servant, my speechwriter, I have something I want to say and then my fingers, my thoughts, and my thinking process goes into drive.

I am faithful about doing what God wants me to do, however He wants me to do it and at the level He wants me to do. I believe I touch a lot of people because of my writing. God tells us that the just shall live by faith. He reminds me that His word does not come back void. And because I am His child, then what I write touches people’s lives and changes people in the manner in which He sees fit. Read the other awesome tips.

However, far from the ramblings of an old man, the eloquent last words amount to a code for life that's neither preachy nor commanding. "I have no diamonds to leave as inheritances to you", he tells his family gathered around him. "What I have to give are words, and they are more precious than any other thing I could give to you".

From the cover to the interior, a worthy legacy stands out as a beautiful book with an unforgettable cover image. As A. Kai (RawSistaz Reviewers) wrote, “A WORTHY LEGACY is a lovely artwork unto itself”.

The story of “A Worthy Legacy” has resonated with a lot of people across different cultures, especially people who have suffered the loss of a loved one as well as people going through life changing events. In the words of Margaret Orford (Allbooks Review) “There are some wise insights to the meaning of life and other key points that affect the quality of the life that one chooses to live”.

The story of the book also provides a window to the African culture. Since moving to the US, I have been amazed at how little people actually know of the richness of the African culture and its influence on individuals who grew up there. “A Worthy Legacy” is one of the few books out there that talks firsthand about the depth of the African cultural experience. Far from being just a story, the events described in the story represents one of the ways in which values, history, knowledge and instruction has been transferred across generations in many African cultures. Read the entire article at the BP Blog.

From the 'Happily Ever After' Newsletter

Without a doubt one of the most sensitive and provocative discussion areas when it comes to marriage is sex and intimacy. It is a topic that can easily offend and anger, but it is also a topic that can enrich relationships when discussed in the right context.

Although in the past people have had a tendency to avoid the subject altogether, marriage experts agree that healthy discussion about sex and intimacy in the marriage can lead to a closeness and honesty that make the marriage stronger and more fulfilling for each spouse. We can take hope in the fact that God created sex and intimacy between a man and wife to be a pure expression of unity and love.

What is Marital Intimacy?
Ask this question to married couples and you will get a variety of answers. Responses like "feeling close" to "having great sex life" are common, but are not entirely accurate. It makes sense that husband and wife long for true intimacy in a marriage, but if we can't even define it accurately, it is going to be difficult to achieve! Thankfully, we can look to God for the definition of marital intimacy.

As God is the creator and designer of the marriage union, we are going to have the best chance for success if we follow His blueprint and call on Him to guide us. For example, if you are building a home, you don't ask an interior designer for advice on the foundation. No, you go to the writer of the plans-the architect-who has the plan in his hand and can tell you everything you need to know about building your home. View the rest of the article here.

Unleashing the Power of Intimacy in Your Marriage
Looking for emotional closeness with your spouse? Better sex? Improved communication? Intimacy the way God intended it to be is the path to each of these goals. There may be no other aspect of one's marriage that has the potential to refresh, enrich and heal like true intimacy between husband and wife. But how can you achieve this level of oneness in your marriage when life seems to get in the way? Jobs, children, friendships, hobbies, and even church ministry involvement can hinder one's ability to truly connect with a spouse. Life is hectic. Life is full. And too often our marriage relationship is the one part that gets short-changed. Step number one for achieving intimacy in marriage is to make sure your priorities are lined up correctly. It is stated clearly in the Bible that we should... Join in the discussion. Read more tips for couples by Jewell R Powell.

Ella: Daya, tell us a little about you and your work.
My inspirational speeches share my secrets for a successful life through an empowering thought system and real life stories. I am known as a “thought coach or thought doctor” . I am a TV/Radio personality and lecturer, offering topics relating to the inherited power of the gift of thought and the power behind our Word which is the cause of manifestation for us.

Ella: Finish this sentence: I am Powerful because...
I allow God to guide me on my path. I am aware of the ALL in All.

Ella: Where are you from?
Philadelphia, PA. I now reside in Deltona, FL with my husband, youngest son Joseph, two dogs and one cat. I've been writing poetry, short stories, drawing cartoons since I was in elementary school and throughout college. I've been writing music and recording music with my husband Chris for about 30 yrs this July 31st.

Ella: How did you start your writing journey?
Just by listening to my inner Self to do so. My Dad was a architect and commercial artist and I watched how creative he was in his art room.

Ella: Give us the synopsis of the book being discussed, The Only Way Out Is In: The Secrets of the 14 Realms to Love, Happiness and Success.

The mass consciousness is at a point where it knows there has to a better way. People may not know what it is but they are beginning to open up to the possibility they can learn what this better way is. Being in the Realm of the Secrets that I talk about in my book, is being where you want to be, doing what you want to do, by knowing you are already there but just temporarily forgot until someone who loves you, shows you the way. You'll hear me say, "On your way to discovering your self, you may have to pretend to be who you are first."

The formulae shared in my book are basic Universal laws not generally taught or known. I share these with the intent to propel people to the fulfillment of their dreams quickly, easily and basically effortlessly with faith and how to direct their feelings to the fulfillment of their dreams.

Ella: What makes your book stand out from others?
The cover and the title, The Only Way Out Is In: The Secrets of the 14 Realms to Love, Happiness and Success! The cover has dolphins on it in an aquarium with my Joseph (3 yrs at the time) and I being in awe at watching them through the glass and being at one with their beauty and love. The lettering is gold with highlights around them and the book just bursts with energy of the dolphins and the love we shared with them.

The book is uniquely helpful by its simplicity, revealing the realms of consciousness that sometimes goes unnoticed by the average person. It’s revealing, it’s compassionate and educationally informative. Secrets of the Universal principles such as the Law of Attraction are revealed in a simple format that is easy to understand in how to apply the principles to one’s life. It helps by opening the door of the mind to look at things differently, helping to change one’s perception and thereby change one’s life to one of empowerment, growth and eventually changing the world.

Ella: Ultimately, what do you want readers to gain from your book?
Universal secrets that seem to be secret are revealed in my latest book for the well being of everyone, so the reader won't give up and loose sight of her dreams, desires, purpose, passions and goals. I am encouraging my readers to stay focused and not give up before they take their next step forward that may very well be the last necessary one through the doorway of IT for them. The formulae shared in my book are basic Universal laws that are not generally taught or known. I share these with the intent to propel people to the fulfillment of their dreams quickly, easily and basically effortlessly with faith and how to direct their feelings to the fulfillment of their dreams. I desire to see people take their power back for their health, wealth and well being by being responsible for what they are thinking and believing about themselves.

Ella: What would you say has been your most significant achievement as a writer?
Having my books accepted and approved for distribution by one of the oldest and most respected distributors in the world, DeVorss & Company and being added as a reliable Vendor by Barnes Noble Bookstores.

Ella: What advice would you give a new writer?
Be persistent, be patient, be creative not competitive, believe in yourself and trust that all is well for you. Believe that you are a miracle and that you are naturally unique and creative - there's no one on earth exactly like you.

Ella: Name 3 things that it takes to make a successful author, in your opinion?
Believing in yourself, your work, keep trusting and listening to the Voice for God, The Holy Spirit and knowing you ARE a successful author. Have fun on your journey, make up your own rules if you have to have them - or not.

Ella: What can we expect from you in the future?
I am collaborating and editing a book that is what we call, the ASOT Project. The book is entitled: Americans Saving Ourselves Together: Handbook on How to Thrive in the 21st Century. There are seven authors from different parts of the United States working together to support our other brothers and sisters in America - hopefully the globe with suggestions, techniques, ideas and solutions for a better life.

Ella: Share with us your latest news, awards or upcoming book releases.
Upcoming book release, Americans Saving Ourselves Together: Handbook on How to Thrive in the 21st Century. It should be released July 4th, 2009 for $14.95, Padaran Publications.

Contact Information: Daya Devi-Doolin, author.
Padaran Publications, www.padaran.com
www.devorss.com ; www.bn.com
www.amazon.com ; www.alibris.com.

Inquiries (386) 532-5308 and payment can be made through PayPal or sending check or money order to Padaran Publications, P. O. Box 391041-32739, Deltona, FL 32739. People can join me on Facebook or Twitter.

Ella: Hello Martha! Tell us a little about you and your book.
My writing career has been, until the last few years, one of those “don’t quit your day job arrangements”. Having made my living as a tax professional, I found early on that my creative writing skills came in handy when I had to write client letters to the IRS.

Ella: Answer this for us: Why am I powerful?
I am powerful because I never once accepted there were things in this world I could not overcome; I could not conquer; I could not embrace.

Ella: Please introduce us to your book, In the Land of Cotton.
As a child growing up in Memphis I could not have known that the Boyd family, the main characters in In the Land of Cotton, would have such a haunting effect on me. Last fall, their indelible personas became overwhelming. They were all I could think about. I sat down one afternoon and the book began to flow to paper. I still had vivid memories of Cypress Grove, a primitive farm the Boyd family had lived on since the days of the Civil War. They had no electricity, no running water and certainly no refrigeration yet they wanted for nothing. It was a step back in time but, as a child, I wanted to be part of that. As the reader journeys through the 1960's, they travel along side the Boyd family as they experience the historic events of that decade. You will find as a reader that you will become immediately vested in the characters. The Boyd's have the voice for every Black American that lived through those turbulent times.

SLAVERY IS MORE THAN CHAINS AND SHACKLES
SLAVERY IS A STATE OF MIND

Immerse yourself in this highly anticipated political docu-drama set in the Deep South amidst the backdrop of the Civil Rights Movement. Martha was a young white girl living in the Deep South, inundated with the racist sentiments of the times. But Martha's natural curiosity and generous heart led her to question this racial divide. When she discovered a primitive Negro family living deep in the woods near her house, everyone's life changed forever. Take the journey of a lifetime alongside Martha as she forges relationships that lead to self discovery and a clearer understanding of the world around her. In the Land of Cotton provides an outstanding snapshot of life in the South during those troubled times - a snapshot everyone should take a close look at, regardless of era or color. The year was 1956. Read the entire article at the BP Blog.

A graduate of the College of Notre Dame of Maryland , Lisa Douglass earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science, and continued her education at Loyola College in Maryland , where she earned a Master of Engineering Science degree. Currently, she is a software development consultant for the United States Federal Government.

Ella: Give us the synopsis of the book being discussed.
Lisa: BaloneyBooks.com, offers a series of children’s books I’ve written all about five-year old Gwendolyn BALONEY Lomax. These stories recount childhood remembrances told to me by my mother, who grew up as the youngest of eight siblings in a four-story row house in Baltimore . I love these stories because they are simple, timeless, wholesome tales about childhood and family. I think readers will find the main character, BALONEY, to be both familiar and likeable. Each story unfolds through her eyes. My goal with these books was to write stories that are tenderly written, without being overly sentimental. They deliberately steer clear of moralistic themes, relying more on basic notions of love, youthful spirit, neighborliness, and the natural development of childhood awareness.

Ella: Tell us about your passion for writing.
Lisa: My enthusiasm for writing stems from my excitement for storytelling. I’ve always loved to hear a story being told and am thrilled to be able to tell a story that would be as exciting to the reader as it is to me.

Ella: Where are you from? How did you start your writing journey?
Lisa: I was raised in Baltimore County , Maryland . I started my writing journey in the classroom, taking creative writing courses. I loved the idea of creating characters and telling fantastic tales. Although I put that endeavor aside for a while, as I pursued my education and embarked on my career – that interest had never left me. Writing these books sort of brought me back to my first love. I feel like I’ve come full circle.
Read the entire article at the BP Blog.

Offering developmental, content, and copy services to authors and publishers, Rhonda Crowder is a freelance editor who has worked on seven novels in less than three years with two appearing on the Essence bestsellers list. Currently, she lives in Cleveland, Ohio and is a general assignment reporter for the Call and Post Newspapers as well as a contributing writer for magazines and trade publications. Rhonda is also an aspiring novelist and has been featured in Who's Who in Black Cleveland.

Ella: How did you get your start in this business/industry?
After interviewing and writing an article about Triple Crown Publications CEO Vickie Stringer (which she loved), for the Call and Post Newspapers, she asked me if I edited manuscripts. I said yes, submitted my resume, completed a sample edit, and went on to work on three novels. Two became Essence bestsellers. After that, I signed up on Myspace and found there was a huge market for this service. From there, I established myself as a freelance editor and authors began to reach out in need of my services.

Ella: Did you have any formal training?
Yes I do. I hold a Bachelor of Arts in English with a concentration in creative writing, editing, and publishing from Cleveland State University.

Ella: What separates you and your firm from the competition?
I believe I have the ability to view a manuscript from four different perspectives: as the average reader, a student of literature, writer, and editor. Then, when it comes to street or urban lit, I got some 'cred.' LOL. Also, I understand psychology and logic. That's important when reviewing stories because stories must make sense.

Ella: How would you describe your experience as a entrepreneur?
One word, chal-len-ging. And, that's because I'm a one woman show. There's so much to be done other than the actual work. Records and taxes. While, I enjoy doing the actual work more so than doing the business. There's a difference between the two. But, I refuse to give up. My goal is to perfect the business. I've finally got the work load under control.

Ella: What do you like most about your profession?
I enjoy reading. I love working with words. And, although I may sometimes become extremely frustrated during the process, I get a rush when witnessing a story come together in the end. Also, it's a shear pleasure to hear the sound of an author's voice or see the look on their face once that book is in print. I love helping people make their ideas and dreams come to life.

Ella: What is your biggest challenge in business? How did you overcome it?
Transforming what I do as a side job into a company. But, this year, I plan to use the resources available through organizations such as the Urban League and others to ensure that the business aspects is in order and can thrive.

Ella: What advice would you give someone just starting out in your industry?
You have to do this work for the love, the passion, not the money. It's a slow grind in the beginning. But, if you love it, never give up. The rewards will eventually come!

Ella: What do you hope to offer your clients or customers to shape their lives?
In addition to a well-edited manuscript that will sell forever, the tools they need as to survive as writers with or without me.

Ella: What are 3 things all leaders possess?
An ability to listen, generate ideas to solve problems, and communicate effectively.

Ella: How does your mission or vision keep your business growing?
By helping others communicate effectively, the have a better chance at stay in business. With that, I remain in business!

Rhonda Crowder can be contacted at paydapiper@aol.com. Visit her on-line at Myspace, Facebook, and Twitter.

Meet Patricia A. Bridewell author of Reflections of a Quiet Storm
Patricia Ann Bridewell was born and raised in Los Angeles, California. Her first fiction novel, Reflections of a Quiet Storm, will be released by Xpress Yourself Publishing in March 2009. She is currently working on her second novel.

Patricia earned an Associate of Science in Nursing from Los Angeles Southwest College, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing – Cum Laude from Holy Names University, and a Master of Science in Nursing Education from Mount Saint Mary’s College.

She is a member of Sigma Theta Tau International Society of Nursing – Nu Xi Chapter at Large, and the Zora Neale Hurston/Richard Wright Foundation. She is a writer, registered nurse, and nurse consultant. She is a member of West Angeles Church of God in Christ in Los Angeles; she resides in Lancaster, CA. and has two adult children and one grandchild.

Intimate Conversation Interview with Ella Curry, president of EDC Creations Media Group

Ella: Patricia, please tell us why you are powerful as a woman and writer.
I am powerful because God put words in my head that magnified three-fold when they were placed on paper.

Ella: Tell us what motivated you to write this book, Reflections of a Quiet Storm.
My motivation probably came from life experiences, some of which were negative and others positive. Approximately a year and a half prior to writing the book, I started journaling my experiences and thoughts and I kept that journal. I started writing the book from my journal notes.

Ella: Who did you write this book for?
I think the book was written primarily for women, but I feel that most anyone, men or women, can benefit from the character’s experiences. The book was based on many things that occurred in my life. So, I feel that many people may be able to identify with some of the things that happened in the character’s life. I also believe that people will be able to see there is always a light at the end of the tunnel no matter how bleak things might appear in life.

Ella: Bring your 3 main characters to life. Tell us who they are and what you love about them.
Pauline Bridges is the main character in the story. There are lots of characters that come into play in this story because she has dreams and constant flashbacks of her past, but at the same time she interacts with people who are in her life at the present time. Another main character is Naman, her ex-husband, and Keith, who becomes her new love interest in the story. Another character is Bethany, who is a long-time, best friend, and then there is Darryl, Bethany’s husband, and Vangie, another of Pauline’s friends.

Meet the Main Characters

Pauline Bridges is a very spiritual person who has always been passionate about helping other people. She is the matriarch of her family and the CEO of a self-owned business . Her life suddenly takes a change after a near fatal accident. Dreams, flashbacks, and memories become a challenge. She also has the challenge of trying to remain that gigantic source of strength in the life for friends and her children as they go through their crises.

Naman is her ex-husband, who comes into the story through her dreams and a few brief interactions in present day situations. Naman’s character is somewhat self-centered, but at the same time has a certain warmth to his personality, and he cares about his children. The development of a drug and alcohol problem brings out a darker side to him, which was the main issue that brought devastation into Pauline’s life while they were married.

Keith becomes Pauline’s new love interest in the story. He is very debonair and intelligent, and he becomes a strong support system for Pauline while she is going through all of the chaos in her life, while at the same time dealing with her past. He is the kind of man that Pauline never expected she’d ever have in her life, but as they become closer, she realizes that he cares for her.

Patricia A. Bridewell-Electronic Presskit for the Virtual Book Tour
http://edccreationsbooktours.ning.com/forum/topics/patricia-a-bridewell

Ella: What is your favorite book, music, movie, play?
I have a many favorite authors, but a few of my favorite books were an autobiography called A Piece of Cake by Cupcake Brown, This Fire Down In My Soul by J.D. Mason, and Love and Lies by Kimberla Lawson-Roby. I love gospel music. Some of my favorites are: Mississippi Mass Choir, Marvin Sapp, Brian Cage, Tremaine Hawkins, and many more. I also enjoy India Arie, Jill Scott, and any of those Motown oldies but goodies. My favorite movie were The Color Purple and Claudine, and favorite play was Dream Girls.

Ella: Could you imagine your life without writing today?
I could not imagine what life would be like without writing because even though I’ve only been writing professionally for almost 4 years now, I’ve always integrated reading and writing into my life. I’ve always preferred to write over talking. Even if I had a business problem that I needed to address, it was much easier to sit down and write a letter rather than call someone on the phone. Of course, I realize that verbal communication is necessary and I’ve experienced phenomenal growth in that area, particularly after I started teaching, but writing is still my favorite method of communicating and I think that’s probably why I was destined to write. I just believe that God just opened other doors first to make a way for my writing career.

Meet Patricia A. Bridewell Online

Website: www.patriciabridewell.com
Email: bridern@verizon.net
Reflections of a Quiet Storm (Paperback)
Paperback: 300 pages
ISBN-10: 0977939863 | ISBN-13: 978-0977939862

Ruth 1:20-22 (Amplified Bible)
And she said to them, Call me not Naomi [pleasant]; call me Mara [bitter], for the Almighty has dealt very bitterly with me. I went out full, but the Lord has brought me home again empty. Why call me Naomi, since the Lord has testified against me, and the Almighty has afflicted me?

If you have never read this story, here we have a woman whose life was drastically changed. First, she and her husband, Elimelech, and their two sons left Bethlehem because of a severe famine. Looking for a better life, they journeyed to Moab. While in Moab, Naomi’s husband, Elimelech, dies, and ten years later, her two sons die, leaving her to care for her two daughters-in-law. Naomi decided to return to Bethlehem, but upon returning she has no husband or sons, instead a bitter heart.

I can’t recall how many times I have read this passage of scripture and each time God would speak to my heart. I believe all the scriptures are written to teach us valuable lessons that will be taught through life’s experiences. I had no idea the one day I hade to practice applying this principle to my life.

Just as Naomi did not understand why God had chosen to take her through one of the most challenging experiences in life, I pondered as well. Just like a child growing up in life you have expectation and plans that usually don’t include bruises and bumps in the road. But I found that even when the unexpected things in life do occur, God has a plan and purpose to make something good out of the worse situations.

At 42 years of age I found hope, encouragement and a renewed spirit while going through a divorce. Although my plight was not one in which I welcomed or embraced I had to accept that this part of my life God had already known about before the foundation of the world.

He was taking me through one of the most unpleasant times in my life but I had to trust that the one in which I had given my life to knew exactly what was best for me and there was something about my life that He was going to reveal and what I had faced and conquered was really going to alter my life forever.

I had one choice to make either I was going to allow myself to be bitter with what He had allowed to happen or I was going to let the situation develop and make me into a better person, I decided to use the situation to make me better.

God was using my situation to bring me to a place of maturity, confidence and total dependency on Him. I learned not to look at my current condition although quite hard at times but I had to realize that some day God would show me why He had chosen me to carry this particular cross. A lot of things we go through in life are not for us at all but it’s for someone else, who is in need of encouragement, help and support. Read the rest of this article

Carletta D. Washington is currently pursuing a Doctor of Education degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Missouri, St. Louis. She has more than eleven years working in large and small public schools at the middle and high school levels as well as within the community.

She is the Founder & CEO of EDUCATION 4 ALL, INC., a non-profit community outreach organization that provides affordable quality workshops for students, parents, educators, and communities, started in January 2002.

Ella: Tell us about your passion for writing and introduce us to your book.
Improving the quality of public school education cannot be accomplished without the collaboration of school, home and community. Washington works off the premise that “one team, one goal” is critical in fostering improved student achievement and preparing our children for their journey into the real world. The message holds as much value for parents as it does the education community and policy makers.

Ella: Where are you from? How did you start your writing journey?
St. Louis, MO. English has always been my strongest subject in school. I love to write. Also, I felt the need to share with parents some very important tips for helping their children to be successful in school. In addition, I wanted to approach education reform from a comprehensive viewpoint by including information for all stakeholders. For more details, read the entire article.

Intimate Conversation with Diane A. Sears

Diane A. Sears is an author, Managing Editor of a quarterly international fatherhood journal, publicist for non-profit organizations, a member of the University Council for Fatherhood and Men’s Studies Program at Akamai University in Hilo, Hawaii who has worked on Fatherhood and Men’s issues since 1999. In June 2008, Ms. Sears launched the INTERNATIONAL FATHERHOOD AND MEN’S ISSUES INTERNSHIP PROGRAM. (Read More)

ELLA: TELL US ABOUT YOUR PASSION FOR WRITING.
I grew up in a home that was full of books and magazines. I was surrounded by adults who were always reading and very proficient in communicating through the written word. Between the ages of 3 and 4, I was personally introduced to the world of writing by my mother. She prepared and implemented daily lesson plans which consisted of writing the entire alphabet, my name, and the numeric system. Each morning after breakfast, for approximately two hours, under her watchful eye, I would practice writing the entire alphabet, the numeric system, and my name.

When I was approximately seven years old, she introduced me to the world of grammar – particularly, sentence structure. “Make each sentence that you write interesting. Never begin each sentence with the same word. Put variety in your sentences,” she would admonish me after reviewing my English homework and sending me back to my room to rewrite the sentences so that they reflected “variety” and “were interesting.” I would return to my room, rewrite the sentences so that they were “interesting” and reflected “variety”. My mother would review the rewritten sentences and give them her stamp of approval.

Many years later, in the late 1980s, my mentor – the late L.T. Henry, an author, photojournalist, sales and success motivation trainer, and a classically trained jazz musician who played briefly with The Philadelphia Orchestra and former drummer for internationally acclaimed songstress and film and television actress Ms. Della Reese --- learned that the New York City-based Negro Ensemble Company, Inc. was co-sponsoring the National Literary Achievements Awards – a national writing competition. He urged me to enter the competition and I followed his advice. In 1988, I submitted a short story and was selected as one of a number of finalists in the national writing competition’s Fiction Category. For more details, read the entire article.

Intimate Conversation with Chaz Kyser

Chaz Kyser is a journalism instructor/newspaper advisor at Langston University. She is also the author of Embracing the Real World: The Black Woman’s Guide to Life After College. This career guide was created for Black women making the transition from college to the professional workforce, and has been nationally praised, most recently by Tyra Banks. She lectures throughout the country on topics relevant to college students and recent graduates of all ethnicities.

Ms. Kyser is also a freelance editor and writer. Her career columns and advice have been published in numerous publications and websites, including Essence, The Miami Times, and www.blackcollegian.com. Ms. Kyser received a masters of science degree in publishing from Pace University in New York, and bachelor’s degrees in print journalism and sociology from Texas State University-San Marcos. She is a native of Fort Worth, Texas.

Ella: Tell us about your passion for writing.
"Embracing the Real World: The Black Woman's Guide to Life After College," is the first book published and the only one on the market geared toward Black women making the transition from college to the professional workplace. Readers will get "schooled" on everything from applying and interviewing for jobs, succeeding in a new position, choosing where to live, handling conflicts with co-workers, managing their boss, networking effectively, budgeting, negotiating their salary, and coping with job loss. The book has received national recognition, most recently by Tyra Banks. For more details, read the entire article.

Intimate Conversation with Darryl Hutchins

Darryl Hutchins is a Christian comedian known as D'Lo (The Bernie Mac of Christian Comedy). He has been doing comedy for over 15 years. His comic style puts you in the mind of the late Bernie Mac. He has been featured on TV shows, Radio Talk Shows and various newspapers.

As owner of Upstage Comedians, a booking agency for clean and Christian comedians, he is providing a service to connect customers with comedians across the country. His company is one of the fastest growing agencies for booking comedians.

About Upstage Comedians: Upstage Comedians is an agency where people can book clean & Christian comedians for any venue. They have booked comedians for corporate events, church events, anniversaries, birthday parties, cruises, comedy shows, and family reunions. The comedy they provide is safe for all ages. Ask about their comedy tours and all inclusive packages. They have packages to fit just about any budget.

ELLA: Did your company change the way consumers were previously taught to think?
Oh yes, definitely! We have been taught that laughter and the church doesn't mix. I have had people tell me it's not polite to play with God. We are not making fun of Christianity at all. We are taking life events or funny things that have happened in church and present them to the audience in a way that's non-offensive. In Luke 6:22 the Bible states " ...blessed are ye that weep now, for ye shall laugh." We all know the scripture that "A merry heart does the soul good like a medicine." This is a ministry as well as a service. Our mission it to throw out old tradition and bring in new fresh laughter. For more details, read the entire article.

Under the Juniper Tree
“Even Christians Get Depressed”
by Christian fiction author, Shelia E. Lipsey

This is a three part Christian workshop discussing what causes depression and how to manage depression. There are several stories within the workshop sections that may apply to you or someone you know. The goal here is to acknowledge the fact that depression can come into anyone's life, even a dedicated Christian. Please read the three sections and let's discuss the material in each section. If you are dealing with depression, let's talk about it as a community. If you have questions or would like more information, please leave your responses in the comments section here.

Part One and Part Two are also included here. Please take part in all three sessions.

Introduction
Do Christians get depressed? Think about this question for a moment. Ponder over it before you answer.

If we are grounded and rooted in God and our faith, how then can we say that we become depressed? Isn’t that what having faith is all about – believing and hoping in that which we cannot see? Isn’t that why Jesus is our Savior, our Lord, our Father, our everything? Doesn’t his word say if we abide in Him and he abides in us then we can ask anything and it will be done? Doesn’t he tell us to cast our cares upon him? Or what about the passage of scripture that says, ‘He doesn’t put anymore on us than we can bear?’

If I believe God’s word is true, then why are there times when I feel down and out, troubled, like there is no hope and no where to turn? Why do I cry, moan and groan, as if there is no tomorrow and no one who cares? Why do I close myself off from loved ones, family and friends and seek shelter in the confines of my room? Why do I feel isolated and alone, like no one understands what I am going through and how I feel? The answer I give to you is what I have come to call “under the juniper tree.” In other words, I am going through a period of depression. There, I said it – depression. I said it again. Maybe it’s taboo to some believers, but God is not a good of condemnation. He has made us in his own image, that’s true, but God also placed us in bodies of imperfection, that because of Adam and Eve’s sinful nature, must be subjected to various groaning and ailments – including depression.

(Leave your thoughts on these questions and let's talk about it.)

Biblical scholars, theologians, Christians, religious folks and non-religious folks alike, have varying opinions when it comes to Christians and depression. I am particularly interested in this subject because I am a Christian who has battled depression most of my life, starting when I was a young child. Being saved at the age of eight did not give me a ticket to bypass the road of depression. Yet, I know beyond a shadow of doubt within my heart, spirit and soul, that I am a child of God.

I often refer to a story in the Bible that some of you may have heard or read about it. It’s the story of Elijah, a prophet of God. Elijah was a strong man who feared God. In 1 Kings Chapter 18, God had commanded Elijah to prophesy to Ahab that it would not rain until he said it would. Ahab, an Israelite King, married Jezebel, a princess from Zidon. Zidon was known for its paganistic, witchcraft and idolatry. Evil was rampant. Jezebel, like the inhabitants of Zidon was an evil, wicked woman, and quite devious which is why the marriage between Ahab and Jezebel was forbidden by the Lord.

Much like Adam who was persuaded to eat of the forbidden fruit in the Garden of Eden, Ahab was persuaded by his wife, Jezebel to introduce the idol god, Baal, and he went so far as to build worship centers for his people to worship Baal. No longer were they able to worship the one true God. Enters the prophet Elijah. Ahab had 450 prophets who were going to compete against Elijah in a contest to see whose God was the true God.

The prophets and Elijah each built an altar and prepared a sacrifice. However, even though it was customary to light the altar, this time things would be different. The contest called for the prophets of Baal to pray to Baal, and Elijah to pray to the Lord. Whichever god responded by setting his sacrifice afire would be judged the true God, and the god losing the contest would be abandoned.

The prophets of Baal went first. They places piles of wood on their altar and prepared their sacrifice. Afterward, they prayed to their god, Baal to light the fire of the altar. They prayed and chanted, screamed and hollered, prayed and prayed from morning to evening without any fire coming forth from Baal. When it was determined that Baal was not going to light the altar that the 450 prophets of Ahab had constructed, Elijah stepped forward.

Elijah’s altar was not extravagant like the altar built for Baal. It was simply built and Elijah prepared his sacrifice. Elijah went so far as to douse his pile of wood with water that was it overflowed into a ditch. At this time, water was a precious commodity because of the lack of rain, so imagine the amazement of everyone who witnessed Elijah’s act.

Unlike the 450 prophets, Elijah did not weep and wail, scream and shout, and have a fit when he prayed. Instead, Elijah simply asked the Lord to reveal himself and show that He was the one true God. Immediately, a fierce bolt hit Elijah’s altar and the sacrifice, the altar and the water was consumed!

Everyone who had gathered to witness the contest between the prophets and Elijah were in awe at what had taken place. Elijah, after the Lord revealed himself in the flames, ordered the 450 prophets to be executed.

I imagine that Ahab hurried home to his wife. He told Jezebel everything that had occurred. Being full of evil, she was so full of rage and hatred that she turned around and ordered that Elijah be killed. Elijah was truly a man of God. He followed God’s commandments without hesitation. He believed in God and in all that the Lord told him. Yet, like so many of us, Elijah seemed to have forgotten all about God when he heard that Jezebel planned on killing him. Instead of standing boldly before her, without worry or fret, Elijah took off. He became fearful and depressed.

We, as Christians, often do the same thing. No matter how good God is to us, no matter how many trials and tribulations he bring us through, no matter how many tough times and tragic events he delivers us from, when trouble hit, we began to worry, become fearful and many of us, like Elijah and myself, enter into a deep depression. We began to have a ‘woe is me’ party. We can’t sleep, we can’t eat. We can barely work. We don’t want to talk or associate with co-workers, friends, families or loved ones. Some of us even think about and/or commit suicide because we believe there is no other way out.

(Readers, do you agree or disagree? Tell us your thoughts. This online workshop continues for two more sections) Read the rest of this article.

I wonder what kind of woman I would be now if I had had a different mother. I thought about that this morning and thanked God for the one I had for most of my life. I say most of my life, because she was an inspiration even in her death.

I was born a middle child and, somehow, I expected less and got more. More, because even in my independent ways, I paid careful attention to what my mother did and said. Early on, I was impressed that what she did and what she said were totally congruous. She lived the life of a Christian and, from her, I received a legacy of faith, integrity and strong moral values. She believed in the work ethic, and taught us that a person who would not work would be capable of theft and dishonesty, that we should do to the best of our abilities whatever we agreed to do and for whatever we were paid. To her, theft meant more that snatching something and getting away with it; you stole if you accepted pay for something that you didn’t do or didn’t do well.

I’ve often said that I wish I was as nice a person as my mother. And that is true. Although a leader in her church and community, a teacher and school principal, this never seemed to impress her. She loved people and met some of her closest long-time friends at the bus stop and at the supermarket. Some of them hadn’t finished high school, but she said they didn’t have her opportunities and had done well with what they had.. In her late seventies, she took “the old folks” as she called them grocery shopping in her car every Wednesday morning. The neighborhood children loved her, and volunteered to run errands for her. Of course, she rewarded them with goodies that she loved to bake.

Her faith in people surpassed any that I’m likely to have. Well into her seventies, one evening in late autumn when darkness had already set in, Muz, as we called her, drove to the supermarket for something, parked in the parking lot and headed toward the entrance. A young man stopped her and said, “Lady give me those car keys.” She looked at the switch blade knife, then at him, threw her arms around him and said, “Son, don’t you have a mother?” The unfortunate young man, wrung himself out of her clutches and said, “Get away from me, Lady.” “But son,” she persisted, “What you’re doing isn’t right.” He ran. My siblings and I begged her never to do such a thing again, but she said. “He has a mother, and he obviously cares about her.”

If I have talent as a writer, I probably inherited it from my mother. She wrote the first fiction that I ever read. At age seven, I found a short story on her desk or some other place that now escapes me. The title, THE DREGS OF THE CUP, intrigued me, and I read it. I wasn’t sure how she’d react to my having done that, but she asked me what I thought of it, and when I said it was too short, she seemed very pleased. One day, I am going to write a novel suitable for that title.

Muz loved to laugh, and my fondest memories of her are of her laughing. I used to come up with all kinds of antics to make her laugh. It was a lovely, musical sound. I remember distinctly times when I told her one joke after another to keep her laughing. Mind you, the jokes were squeaky clean, or I cleaned them up before I told them. One Saturday when I was about seventeen or eighteen, I went with my church club on a picnic, pitched baseball for a few innings and, the following Monday, I was forced to go for therapy to improve my injured shoulder. In all truth, the very next Saturday, Muz went to the same place on a picnic with the choir to which she belonged, pitched nine innings of softball, won the game and never had one pain. Obviously, that made me the butt of family jokes.

I haven’t mentioned my father, because this is about my mother. But given the chance, I could say some wonderful things about him, including his exquisite singing voice, a little bit of which rubbed off on me. Celebrate Mother's Day 365 days a year!

Gwynne Forster, Author of Getting Some Of Her Own and Drive Me Wild

With women making the largest strides in the arenas of politics, education, entrepreneurship and business, no other time is more poignant for Letter to My Daughter, Maya Angelou's poetic tribute to the emotionally adopted daughters who have touched her life. In response to the question regarding the reason for her tribute, she was quoted, "I gave birth to one child–a son, but I have thousands of daughters." No doubt with this poetic volume, Dr. Angelou will garner many more female supporters happy to draw upon her maternal wisdom.

On September 11, 2008, the seventh anniversary of a very scary and profound time in US history, Dr. Maya Angelou met with Literary Publicist and CEO of EDC Creations Ella Curry to discuss her gift of poetry to the world's daughters. When Curry further asked about the book's inspiration, Dr. Angelou confided, "Well, this is my 80th year and I have been celebrating it all year long. And I realize that I have much less time ahead of me than I have behind and that I have learned some lessons and am in the process of learning some. So I thought I would jot down some of the incidents, some events which took place in my life from which I drew great lessons."

Always a teacher and naturally so, Angelou had this to say, "In looking at that [my life's lessons], I didn't want to say which lessons I learned or what exactly I did with the lessons–solutions. Because I know that my readers are as intelligent and resourceful and they will read about one incident they will get one solution. They'll gather it and then six months later, if they read it again they will find another possible lesson to be learned. I know that is the way I do when I read other people's work...I hope that's what will happen to my readers."

Opening with a powerful letter to daughters everywhere, Angelou says in part, "My life has been long, and believing that life loves the liver of it, I have dared to try many things, sometimes trembling, but daring, still." As Curry accurately described, Dr. Angelou, "in the rhythm of her poetry and the elegance of her prose", expresses the numerous useful lessons in terms of the people she's met, the places she's been and the events of her life.

During the interview with Ms. Curry, one of the most awe-struck memories she shares is her friendship with Civil Rights Activist, Coretta Scott King. She says of their friendship, "I was brought to look at those events because a number of friends of mine have died recently and I thought back to Mrs. King and how we were chosen sisters and how I miss her." Knowing the importance of grieving time but also knowing the need to celebrate the legacy our loves often leave for us, Dr. Angelo continued, "...I felt, 'Well maybe, maybe there's a way I can reduce the mourning, if I can go back to that life and see what their friendship did for me.' And as I went back, I was disheartened, heartened, I was inspired because I had been thinking about their absence and not really about the fun we had and the lessons they taught me." Dr. Angelou goes on to describe how Mrs. Coretta Scott King's "stick-to-it-tiveness" has bolstered a lasting memory of her influential husband that may not have been more than "footnote in history" without Ms. King's tenacity.

Dr. Maya Angelou's Letter to My Daughter is packed with profound and inspirational gems designed to do what all faithful motherly advice does–educate, empower and empathize.

About Laura Major: Laura Major is a multicultural fiction author and freelance writer residing in the greater Phoenix area of Arizona. Her first novel, Mismatched was published by Amira Press in February of 2008. Laura also manages a multicultural website, Sable Lit Reviews.com, one of the few of its kind providing commentary on the multicultural impact of current events as well as multicultural book reviews.

History: The Spirit of Nannie
by LaTonya Branham

Women, beautifully dressed in unison with a common theme, mission, and scripture verse, gather annually at their church – many unknowingly, in the spirit of Nannie. This spirit was actually a vision brought to life in the early 1900s by author, educator, businesswoman, lecturer, and religious leader – Nannie Helen Burroughs from Virginia. Totally committed to the development of women – both young and old – Ms. Burroughs took a bold step in 1901 by requesting that the role of women in foreign mission and job training be addressed by the church. She wanted a more significant role for women and was not afraid to present her vision at the National Baptist Convention in Richmond, Virginia.

One of her accomplishments as the founder of Women’s Day - 100 years later - still exit today throughout many churches across the United States and abroad. We can only imagine the faith and fortitude it took for Burroughs to assert her dreams before a convention of leaders who perhaps looked down upon such a request from a woman.

Even though she is credited for advancing the role of women in the church, Ms. Burroughs acknowledged her own mentors, which included Mary Church Terrell and Anna Julia Cooper. Both of these dynamic women committed their lives to education and social change. Cooper, Terrell, and Burroughs are founders of major organizations. The National Trade and Professional School for Women and Girls founded in 1909 by Burroughs was later re-named in her honor. She also helped to establish the National Association of Colored Women. Ms. Burroughs’ message was very clear. She set out to establish a school and train young women to become contributors to mission projects, earn their own wages, keep their homes in order, and maintain moral values – while committing themselves to a life of service and development of character for all Christian women.

It is easy to become inspired by Nannie Helen Burroughs because she personifies the kind of woman who rejects excuses for not becoming the best that you can be – then takes a stance by articulating and creating an environment where dreams become reality. Of course, life is filled with challenges that often block our way toward achieving our goals – or even ‘just making it’ day by day. After witnessing how we are increasingly so quick to tear each other down rather than building up one another, it becomes apparent that in this day and age, we could use a dose of Nannie’s spirit - not only for women, but for men and children as well. Our children are learning and displaying adult behavior at an earlier age - oftentimes in a negative way. I believe that we owe our children the opportunity to see and experience a better way of life.

Exercising our faith has become more critical because the challenges are mounting – health issues, financial crises, prison rates, family members at war, a lack of education, and morally bankrupt. It is possible to stop pretending that all is well, or acceptable. In my assessment, the era of “anything goes” should cease. We make it harder on ourselves and society when “anything goes.” Ignoring our own needs and the needs of others is damaging – and in many cases becomes irreparable if the result is death. Life was not meant to be that way. Our conduct, our words, and our actions must flow from love. Love for ourselves, our families, our community, and our environment. A commitment to improving ourselves and the lives of others is truly the essence of Nannie Helen Burroughs' life.

Share your opinions and remember to return here to read other articles.

LaTonya Branham is an author, college administrator, and adjunct professor at Central State University in Ohio. Her latest book released December 2007 is entitled Spirit Seek: Words from Scriptures That Transform Your Life. Visit her web site at www.Latonyabranham.com. E-mail can be sent to Latonyabranham@hotmail.com. Her books can be purchased online and wherever books are sold.

LaTonya Branham, Author
CultureSeek - ISBN 13: 978-0-9787296-0-8
Spirit Seek - ISBN 13: 978-0-9787296-1-5
E-mail: LaTonyaBranham@hotmail.com
http://www.latonyabranham.com/
http://www.knowyourhistory.com/

Founding member of the Soul of the Pen
http://www.soulofthepen.com/