Is Your Life On Full?

A few days ago, I posted a comment on Facebook that read: I pray that I don’t get to heaven with my life on full. When I say that, I mean that I don’t want to get to heaven with my life that’s full of unrealized visions, dreams, songs, or businesses that could change the world for the glory of God. Now as you’re reading this, I hope that your prayer is that your life isn’t on full (full of the talents that you know you have that could change the world for the glory of God). God has gifted all of us with certain gifts and talents to make a major impact on the world. Our responsibility is to remain open to His spirit, pray that He will give us His heart (which He will), and that He will fill us up with Him (again, which He will) to be sent out to the nations. There’s no need to compete against each other or to copy each other (because we all are uniquely different).

I would hate for any of us to get to heaven with our life on full due to our complacency (refer to my Complacency & Talents blog from April 18^th, 2011) and say to the master I was afraid and went and hid your talent in the earth (Matthew 25:25). I recommend you read Matthew 25:14-30.

I know this is a short post, but this is something for us all to pray about during the course of this week (and hopefully for the remainder of our lives). God bless.

Author Spotlight (Michael Beckford)

This week’s author spotlight is on my brother & fellow author Michael Beckford.

Michael Beckford’s life began whereas most lives end. His July thirty-first nineteen hundred and eighty-five story began as a cliff note or ode to a young mother whom had to give away her first and only child at the time. She being at the tender age of fourteen, was barely able to tend to herself, let a lone a beautiful baby boy with long hair and a sparkle in his eyes. 

The scenery of sadness and depression filled the air, as Michael Beckford’s mother had to make the tough decision to give him up for fostercare. With a childish innocence, little Michael Beckford had no say in the matter, nor did he understand the complexities of the situation at the time.

During the years of Michael’s foster care, he grew up as a child with a very vivid and inquisitive imagination. He just had a way of bringing the things which were dull and obsolete to life in his imagination.

Like most in life, Michael Beckford witnessed many storms in life, both in a spiritual sense and in the natural such as 1992’s Hurricane Andrew, which destroyed nearly every home around the neighborhood except his. “Truly God was in the work over my former foster home,” Michael Beckford says.

Just as storms don’t last always, his departure form the foster home, came at the sudden death of one of his caretakers, Edna Lewis. With her untimely death, it brought life to Michael Beckford’s situation, which moved him into adoption by two beautiful, young, and energetic parents.

These two parents fueled Michael’s desire to be greater in life, henceforth the birthing of a Great American Writer was formed. From the everyday life stories and struggles in school, Michael’s new mother guided him into writing journals about his daily life’s like’s and dislikes. This movement into the deeper parts of Michael’s mind and creativity led to the praised and often underserved expressions of poetry.

Michael’s new mother, being an Award Winning English Teacher, signed him up for oratorical, a writing contest, and is responsible for the consummate birthing of his writing success in which he enjoys today. She did not give him a natural birth, but the birth of his writing has been an expression of an effect felt upon the many whom have read his books.

Michael Beckford penned his book in February 2004, which is suitably titled Speak Up Poetry! This is a book which essentially dials into the history of a man, and the spirit of the African-American community as a whole. This book digs deep through the progressions and depressions which have been experienced over time since the time of slavery.

Speak Up Poetry! Is a notable success, with it being Michael Beckford’s first book published, and he was only eighteen years of age at the time. This book reached many corners of the country, as it was available for sale throughout the Barnes&Noble, Borders, and other chain retail outlets.

As Michael Beckford began to Speak Up! So did his parents, whom helped to influence some of his collegiate decisions while he attended FAMU. While attending FAMU for a brief season, Michael Beckford took some time off from the book circuit, and expanded upon his knowledge through college, and continued his craft of writing.

It wasn’t until April of 2009 when Michael Beckford reappeared on the writing scene with his first self-published and successful book, Beautifully Ugly People! A transition in writing he took from poetry, to the Christian fiction genre, he’s mostly known for today. Beautifully Ugly People! has been both a book which touches the hearts of many and begs the question of, ‘why do people have to be so beautiful, and yet so ugly?’

His book Beautifully Ugly People! has broken the barriers of what individuals may feel Christian fiction should portray. This is one of Michael Beckford’s best at digging deep into the heart of the situation, and letting God do the rest.

In between touring, blogging, speaking, and just engaging his readers; Michael was putting the finishing touches on the sequel to Beautifully Ugly People! which is I Am The Secret! And was released in December 2009 to great reviews and pestered the many questions of ‘what is the secret?’

I Am The Secret! Has since been the go to book for teen issues and problems. The 5000 Role Models program in Miami-Dade County took the initiative to purchase a book for each individual graduating senior. I Am The Secret! Is also herald as a must read for young adults going through their own struggles in life.

As Michael Beckford continues to travel the country promoting his books through prison ministry, church events, conferences, and other exhibits; he has learned that in order to fight, one must first beware that there is a fight. With the many successes of his books so far, at such a young age, many seek to wonder what he would be speaking up about twenty-five years from now.

Michael De’Angelo Beckford is truly a renaissance man; a man whom loves Jesus Christ. It is Michael’s vision to bring Jesus Christ in his writing to those whom don’t know him, because at the end of the day, it doesn’t matter if one were to know who Michael Beckford is, it’s a matter of knowing who Jesus is. 

Walking In Integrity

I am privileged & honored to have my editor Shantae A. Charles write a column for my blog. I know many people (including me) will benefit from this post. She needs no introduction, so receive a blessing from what she has to say.

Walking In Integrity

            Integrity: This word is bandied about freely but seems to be in great demand in our present day society. I've been doing a study on this concept and principle and I'd like to share a few insights with you.

            1. Integrity doesn't stem from an external judgment but from an internal examination by God of man's heart. Evil people perform charitable deeds all the time. That does not mean that they themselves are walking in the path that God deems as integrous.

            2. Integrity is tied to our motives. David said, test my motives and my heart, and see if there be any evil way in me, once again pointing to integrity being an internal work, not as many preach, an external show.

            3. Integrity opens the door to mercy. God really does look at our heart condition. Many people in this failing economy are finding themselves out of work, their homes in foreclosure, their cars repossessed. Their credit rating is so low it is no longer in numbers, but in words: pay us. Does this mean that they are bad, disreputable people? No, life happened, but now their character is being decided by Equifax and TransUnion. But, this is where mercy comes in. God will show himself strong on behalf of those whose hearts are towards him.

           4. No amount of anointing will make up for lack of integrity. As one writer stated, "If a man has integrity, nothing else matters. If a man doesn't have integrity, nothing else matters." Ask Saul, chosen of God and totally lacking in moral fiber. Rather than completely follow God's directions, he decided to be king and priest without God's permission, to appease the people. The result was the loss of his kingdom.

           5. Integrity cannot flow out of dishonesty. You are either wholly integrous or wholly dishonest. Integrity will not allow you to present a business plan to someone and then renege on your part of the contract. The Bible speaks of keeping your word, even to your own hurt. There has been many times when I undervalued a service to a client. I didn't demand more on the back end. I absorbed the cost of miscalculation and revised my contract for the future.

6. You can injure your inner-self by doing what costs too much to your soul: compromise. Many people have felt totally disillusioned after losing their integrity and felt that it could not be restored. Ask Judas. He repented after he sold Jesus for 30 pieces of silver, but no one was willing to receive his repentance. He took his own life as a result. Please know that if you feel this way, there is HOPE. God will restore you willingly. Confess to God how you fell short. Allow His grace to restore your soul and then allow the Holy Spirit to fill you freely, and empower you to live a life of integrity.

          7. Integrity is one thing that the enemy desires from you, so that he may make a mockery of God. See. Job 2:1-9 After Job had gone through his second round of loss with bodily affliction, his wife posed this question: "Still you maintain your integrity? Why don't you curse God and die?" You see, the one thing the enemy is after is not your children, or your home, or your money. He's after your integrity. He's after that part of you that God is measuring, that opens the doors of mercy on your behalf.

         8. Your integrity can speak so loudly, that God will remain silent during your greatest trials. Have you felt lately like God wasn't speaking and everything wrong that could happen has happened? Let me suggest to you, that God is taking measure of your heart. He likes what He sees, and maybe, just maybe, He might be holding testimony service with you as the subject matter. Let that sink in.

         I encourage you to walk in integrity (Ps. 26). It may cost you but God will repay in mercy towards your situation. There is nothing you lose in this life that God cannot restore. If you've ever done what you promised God you would never do, cheer up. You're in good company (just ask Peter). Grace is still available in this season to make it right. Blessings and Church Love!

Shantae A. Charles is a Publisher, Editor, Artist, Teacher, and Author of the Church Love Novel Series, available on Kindle, Nook, Books-A-Million, and Barnes & Noble. For more info, visit her blog, www.legsclosedmindopen.blogspot.com. 

Author Spotlight (Chicki Brown)

Contemporary women’s fiction/romance author Chicki Brown has published three Kindle bestselling novels (Hot Fun In the Summertime, Have You Seen Her & Hollywood Swinging). She released I Can’t Get Next To You August of 2011.

An avid reader, her favorite authors are Beverly Jenkins, Eric Jerome Dickey, Lisa Kleypas, J.R. Ward and Suzanne Brockmann.

A New Jersey native, Brown and her family relocated to suburban Atlanta, Georgia in 1994, and she now proudly calls herself a “Georgia peach.”

Her many homes in cyberspace include http://www.chicki663.webs.com/, http://www.facebook.com/chicki.brown and @Chicki 663 on Twitter.

School Is History

This week's blogpost is written by my sister & fellow author Ellen Thomas. Enjoy!

School Is History

By Ellen Thomas Author Of

THE BIPOLAR EXPRESS: One Christian Woman’s Life Journey In The Company Of A Child With Bipolar Disorder and Asperger’s Syndrome.

            “Time to get up. It’s the first day of school,” says an apprehensive parent of a child with mental disabilities. 

            First thought: “Could this be the year things will be different?”

            A new backpack is filled with bright crayons, a composition book and sharpened pencils. The bed holds a child with an educational history. A past of making embarrassing mistakes that have made it difficult to make or keep friends and mishaps that teachers or administrators remember.

            Fortunately, a battle does not ensue. The child rises and dons the new clothes purchased during the “Back To School” sales. He/She is eager for a fresh start and stands proudly for a “First Day Of School” photograph.

Most likely the excitement will die quickly as bullies sniff out the most vulnerable kid on the playground. Whatever disability the child holds will soon cause frustration and anxiety. Each day the parent’s fear grows and the mornings begin with, “I’ve told you three times to get out of that bed.”

            But there is hope. Our daughter, who struggles with bipolar disorder, Asperger’s Syndrome and attention deficit disorder, began college this year. Her school, her history, was a constant metamorphosis from public school, to home schooling, to tutoring, to private school to virtual school but she preserved and a high school diploma hangs on our wall.

Here are a few things my husband and I learned riding THE BIPOLAR EXPRESS.

·      Dreams Change.  Your child isn’t going to fit a “traditional” model. You may have to try alternative education such as home schooling or virtual school. We used them all – repeatedly. Familiarize yourself with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and Individual Educational Plans (IEPs). These may provide your child with services and accommodations necessary for access to a free appropriate public education.

·      The Future Looks Too Difficult But Don’t Lose The Moments Of Celebration. You may not get to live day-by-day. It might be minute-to-minute but celebrate any small success. Keep your hope alive by not focusing on grades or trends. Focus on your child, he or she is more than their history.

·      Don’t Be Too Hard On Yourself. As a child moves into middle and high school, the journey becomes more difficult. You will be your child’s best advocate. Making sure your child’s education rights are being upheld can be exhausting. It can cause a financial and emotional toll on your mind, body and spirit. Take time to rest, spend time with friends and most importantly, your significant other.

The Greek philosopher, Plato said, “Do not train a child to learn by force or harshness; but direct them to it by what amuses their minds, so that you may be better able to discover with accuracy the peculiar bent of the genius of each.”

Your child is beautifully and wonderfully made. Discover and celebrate their talents, and interests. It’s worth the trip.

Author Spotlight (LaShanda Michelle)

This week's author spotlight is on my sister & fellow author LaShanda Michelle. I was privileged & honored to meet her through a mutual friend. If it wasn't for her, I probably would not have a book out to this day. Anyway, show this sister some love.

Born and raised in Huntsville, Texas, LaShanda Michelle always had a passion for writing. Every since her mother, now a retired school teacher, taught her how to correctly hold a pencil, she knew writing was what she was born to do. While in school her fourth grade teacher encouraged her to submit her work in a contest to become a published writer. When she didnt win, her teacher encouraged her to hold on to her creativity because her writing would surely take her far. LaShanda remained confident and concluded that one day her dream would come true.

Throughout middle and high school LaShanda studied journalism and served on the newspaper staffs of both schools. In her junior year of high school her hard work on the paper and undeniable writing ability earned her a coveted spot as a student columnist. Her senior year she served as Co-Editor-In-Chief, and was also a member of the student literary magazine staff. During this time she also won many awards that proved her writing ability.

After graduating high school in 2000, she studied journalism for one year at Sam Houston State University before enlisting in the United States Air Force as a medical supply specialist. Her enlistment privileged her to relocate to Anchorage, Alaska, where she spent the next few years honing her craft. While in Alaska she published four books, including a bible study that tackled many hot button issues that young adults face. She also wrote and produced a stage play entitled Let No man Put Asunder... Not Even You! She was also a part of Soulicitations, a creative arts ministry that toured the city promoting Christ through poetry, music, and acting. During this time LaShanda was also featured in Crusin' For Christ, a Christian entertainment cruise, hosted by best-selling author Kendra Norman-Bellamy.

In 2009 LaShanda released Casting Down Imaginations. It chronicles the lives of two young women who leave the supervision of their parents and live life on their own as college students. Along the way they experience a number of obstacles, including an abusive relationship, an unplanned pregnancy, and unforeseen family problems that threaten their futures.

LaShanda's latest novel, Sweeter Than The Honey, was released this past May. It tells the story of Kamilah, a high school senior who is forced to learn the hard lessons of life after falling into a same sex relationship with her new friend. Problems arise when her homophobic mother finds out, and Kamilah has to choose which love she will remain faithful to. The book is available through all major book retailers. 

LaShanda’s website is: www.lashandamichelle.com

Finding Your Passion

It’s Labor Day and 2/3 of this year is done. Where are you with your dreams and goals for 2011? Well, if you’re like me, you’ve had to endure some struggles this year. I’ve told many people at the beginning of 2011, that this is a year of big moves. I know some people can testify to that, but with it came a lot of struggles and unnecessary strife. From unemployment, threats of losing your job, people on your job (co-workers) threatening to drown you underwater to save their job or just tired of being a gerbil running on wheels (the rat race). There’s more, people are jealous because you decided to pursue your passion (or calling of God), other people are fearful of what the future holds because they have nothing to fall back on (not taking the time to find or pursue their passion) and want to make your life a living hell, your closest friends and family won’t support your passion/talents (see last week’s post entitled “No Love, No Honor, No Support” for more on that), or you are just ready to leave your current job to focus on your passion/talent to impact other people’s lives for the better (because you know that your passion/talent is not just for you, it’s for others around you and those you haven’t met yet).

If this describes what you’re going through, then this post is written for you to encourage you not to cast away your confidence, not to give up on God, and to press forward with your passion. Just know that this post is also for me. I need encouragement as well (considering I’m going through some of the things I mentioned above).

So, I ask you the following questions:

1. Do you know what your passion is? Many people don’t, and they have a hard time finding it. If this is you, it’s OK. To find your passion or mission, you have to dig deep inside, get alone with God and pray for Him to reveal it to you in His time (remember, the steps of a righteous man are ordered by God). It will be revealed to you; meanwhile, just keep your mind stayed on Him and experience His perfect peace. If you know what your passion it, then give God praise and perfect it for the glory of God. If you perfect your passion, and present it in excellence, people will take notice and want more of your passion (granted, some people will actually be inspired to pursue their passion).
2. Are there any activities or thoughts that absorb you so thoroughly you lose track of time?
3. What subjects do you find most exciting to talk about?
4. Do you have any skills or talents that inspire self-confidence? I know some of you have the gift of knitting, singing, writing, speaking life to others (and giving them hope and encourage with the love of Christ) and you know it too.
5. When you have a free afternoon, how do you choose to spend it?
6. If you had all the money you needed to pursue a hobby or a special project, what would it be?
7. If you could develop a “dream” business for yourself, what would it be?

Talk about your passions with people who you know well and trust. Now I need to inject something here. Not everybody can embrace your passion, so you need to discern who you tell it to. Joseph in Genesis 37 is a prime example. He should’ve read his brothers better (they said, we shall see what will become of his dream). As one of my sister friends would say, not everybody is a divine connection to you. You don’t tell your business to someone who has a “what’s in it for me” mentality. Back to my original point, sometimes other people can read our souls when we can’t. Once you become aware of your passion, you can determine your mission and begin to feed it. This in turn will feed the drive that will make your dreams come true.

If you are making statements like the four mentioned below, I strongly consider that you pray and work on pursuing your passion now!

1. I wish I could quit my job.
2. I’m tired of going from job to job.
3. I can’t keep working this hard. I’m getting too old for this.
4. I’m tired of wasting my time, hanging around people without much ambition and who aren’t going anywhere.

Some people don’t want to pursue their passion (this is for those who know what their passion is), because they have selfish motives. They’re being stingy or prideful with it because their church or people around them won’t accept them or their passion/talent. The easy way to rectify that is to give it to God and understand that it’s not about you!  It’s for the glory of God – let Him do the work and give Him all the glory!

With that said, this is the time to make it happen. As Gloria Estefan would say, “Get On Your Feet!”

Author Spotlight (Angela Y Hodge)

I had the privilege of meeting Angela at Crossroads Academy where we were part of an author panel along with 2 other well-known authors. Without further ado, the spotlight is now on my sister & fellow author Angela Yolanda Hodge.

Angela Y. Hodge is an Author, writer and Motivational Speaker living in Tallahassee, Florida. She is a graduate of North Florida Community College where she studied Early Childhood Education.

She is a dedicated member of the Tallahassee Authors Network and the Beautiful Bless Sister Book Club.

Angela’s short story titled, “The Amazing Journey Of Healing “, is featured in the anthology, Words from My Kings and Queens, which was compiled by Marvin “Merv” Mattair. In her story, she shares how she overcame insurmountable odds in her life and has become victorious in her daily walk.  Angela is also working on her own book release for later this summer, which will be a collection of poems and prayers.

Angela has appeared at the 2011 State of Black Florida Conference at the State Capitol. Black History Come Alive at the Sealey Elementary Math and Science Magnet School.  A guest Author at the Sealey Elementary Young Author Conference. She also sat on the Author panel at Crossroad Academy.

Angela started writing at an early age, It’s through her pain she gain strength to overcome being rejected by love ones, abused, often misunderstood, trails, and doctor visits. Angela Stated God had a purpose and a plan for her life.

Website: www.angelayhodge.com

No Love, No Honor, No Support

Jesus was explaining a parable in Luke 14:15-24. There was a man who made a great supper and invited people to come. One by one, there were excuses as to why they couldn't come. Eventually, the master said to the servant to go out to the streets and lanes of the city, the poor, blind etc., and invite them. When they all came, there was still more room at the supper. The master then said to the servant to go to the highways and hedges so the house will be full. What's the focus here? Well, this parable was an invitation to Israel to accept the invitation to Jesus, but they rejected him (granted, Jesus would say in other gospels that a prophet is not welcomed in his own home town). Jesus got from Israel no love and no honor.

You are called to do something great, and people who are close to you won't accept you and what you can provide. Instead, they will find every excuse in the book not to support you, or they will want you to give something to them at a discount (or better yet, for free, cause we're brothers, sisters, first cousins, whatever). What happens is that you get no love, and no support from your own.

I dedicate this section to my fellow authors (you will understand this). One of my fellow authors wrote a comment on her Facebook page and it provoked my thinking on this topic. To all the authors that have complained to me about how their friends and family don't support them and haven't bought their books, I say," So! There are way more people out here that you don't know than the ones you do know and are related to. Millions! So if your friends and family won't support, reach out to the millions of strangers that WILL!" I still have several "friends" and family members who haven't done a thing to support me.

What she said was the essence of the parable mentioned above. There is no love, and no support from your own (I'm referring to close friends and family - whether immediate or extended). But when you make it big and are a celebrity, that's when people will take notice. By that time, it will be too late.

This post is not to convict anyone, it's just a little thought about the need to support each other's visions, dreams and talents. We don't do that because we're selfish (and some are just jealous because they went for it) and we need to suppress that spirit. There's no need for us not to love, honor and support someone who's trying to make their dream happen. We all have dreams and talents and we need to support each other. But if you want to sit on your dream and talent, you have no one to blame but yourself! Let me repeat that, you have no one to blame but yourself! Trust me, if you support me, I will support you. This is what it means to have love, honor and support! 

Author Spotlight (AlTonya Washington)

AlTonya Washington is a South Carolina native and graduate of Winston Salem State University in North Carolina . She released her first contemporary romance with BET Books in 2003. “Remember Love” was nominated as Best First Multicultural Romance by Romantic Times Magazine. In 2004 she was named Best New Romance Author by the readers of Shades of Romance Magazine. Her 2nd novel “Guarded Love” was labeled a “TOP PICK’ by Romantic Times Magazine. Her third novel “Finding Love Again” won the Romantic Times Magazine Reviewer’s Choice Award for Best Multicultural Romance of 2004. 

 

Her fourth novel “Love Scheme” was nominated for the annual Romance Slam Jam ‘EMMA AWARD’ as Favorite Steamy Romance. In March 2007 she released the third title in her popular Ramsey series “A Lover’s Mask” which was nominated for the Romance Slam Jam ‘EMMA AWARD’. Her January 2010 Harlequin/Kimani release “The Doctor’s Private Visit” received an EMMA nomination for Favorite Hero. Under the pen name T. Onyx, AlTonya crafts her erotica titles and will release her third effort later this month: “Pleasure’s Powerhouse- Trois Plaisir”.

 

AlTonya plays many roles including “mom” and currently resides in North Carolina where she works for an academic library as a Serials Assistant. In fall 2010 she became a graduate student in pursuit of her Masters in Library Science. To learn more about her upcoming works visit her website http://www.lovealtonya.com/ .

1. Which project was your longest project to complete? My lengthiest projects are the historical romances. So far I’ve crafted two and I’d have to say my second title by far required the greatest time commitment. “Passion’s Furies” (Genesis Press 2008). Historical romances have always been my favorites and the chance to create them has been a phenomenal experience. There is however considerable work to be done before the book is actually written- lots of reading & researching everything from the subject matter, to patterns of speech, dress, furnishings, modes of travel, etc. in Passions I used the Denmark Vesey rebellion in Charleston, SC as the backdrop of the story. Educating myself about the man, his mission and his followers was extremely enlightening and very enjoyable.
2. How did you make the time to write if you’re working a daytime job? I truly believe that it is only possible to write while working a day job if writing is in your heart. If you’re writing with the intentions of striking it rich so you can quit your day job, then you won’t get very far. Writing definitely has to be in your heart- a part of who you are. I write several times a day throughout the day- I write during my 20min morning break, my lunch hour, in the morning when I first arrive at the library and have that time before it’s time to begin the workday. I write after work (most days) I try writing during the weekends mostly when my son is away visiting family- it’s important that I make time for him and that he not see my writing as something that always keeps mommy busy and away from him. My writing schedule may seem extreme (even more so now with grad work) but it works for me. That’s what’s important, finding a schedule that works for you no matter how weird it may seem to others.
3. Why do authors give up? Is it due to instant gratification? Writing is not an easy thing, it takes time, dedication, discipline. Once the book is written, I think that’s where the real work begins. As involved as writing can be, marketing can be just as involved- even more so. It’s an entirely different animal, but very necessary if one expects to have some success in the writing world. It takes a lot of time to get your name out there especially if you don’t have a publicist or someone who handles that for you. Most of us don’t and it takes so much effort. I started writing in 1994, got published in 2003, but I don’t think people were really starting to know who I was until 2009. I did tons of book signings back then. I didn’t always sell a lot of books but made a lot of contacts and those emails were the seeds of my early marketing strategy. There’s no set rule for marketing success but you have to begin somewhere. It can be such a tedious/time consuming process that I feel many of us become discouraged. I feel I still have a long way to go, but I plan to have fun getting there.

Church Issues (Unity - The Lesson)

Remember in the prelude, the greatest impact the church has made on the world is our lack of togetherness. The body of Christ (the church of Jesus Christ) is divided, denominationally, racially, and probably economically. The tragedy of the matter is that we put more emphasis on our denomination, our pastor, and our church over the Bible. Some churches and/or denominations (or folks within their congregations) swear up & down they are the right church and every other church is the wrong church. This goes to show that we are taking pride in our division!

Now because of all this division, it’s easy to assume that those who are antagonistic will not attend church. And if they’re smart enough, they’re probably thinking, “Why do I need to go to church where there’s division; I can stay home and be divided.” It’s our division and attitude within the church why the rest of the world is going to hell first class. Consider, we as the church have talked the talk, but have not walked the walk. We have not demonstrated to the world by our actions, togetherness. In fact, we’re the greatest perpetrators of division in the world! We have got to come together. Here’s a great example of how we create division among ourselves. Once you start talking about denominations with certain people, they will get so indignant over that (I was born this denomination, and will die this denomination) than they do over Jesus & the Bible. God instituted a plan and is allowing us to be a part of it. We have an awesome responsibility but we’ve been playing church (being about the denominational business instead of the Kingdom business). I’d like for us all to do some independent thinking for a moment. Just because you were raised a certain way doesn’t mean you were raised correctly! Don’t forget, that judgment must begin with the house of God? How do you think our report card as a church would look?

Note that I’m not saying to leave the denominational church; I just want you to think about how divided we are. Here are some thoughts:

1. Some of us in our respective churches have become so worldly, that no one can tell the difference between saved people and worldly people. In fact, we have forgotten about a dying world, but we tend to those within our own church and/or denomination.
2. Now this will offend some people, but think about this. Some people will have the audacity to put our denominational doctrine over the scripture that we become overbearing and judging those who don’t measure up to the denominational doctrine. To me, this really a tragedy.
3. There are missions who are really preaching the Bible, Jesus & the cross. And there are some who are bent on missions to get people to their respective church and/or denomination that we lose the real purpose of missions. Again, adding on to the division (and lack of unity).
4. Sometimes leaders in churches are tuned to the spirit of God; but will avoid heeding what God is trying to say to them for it not measuring up to the doctrine of the church. What happens is God’s plan is subverted to the local church and we’re not leaning on the spirit of God. Leaders can place such emphasis on another man’s doctrine, whether it’s Calvinism, Lutherism, and so on. Again, I’m not saying that’s wrong, but everything needs to be subject to the Bible, not the Bible being subject to us.

Another problem in some churches is this: everybody wants to “be,” but not everybody wants to “be obedient.” It’s because people want to be leaders, but we won’t have followers. In fact, if the leaders can’t come together on one accord, what chance does the church have?

If you have a bible, look at 1 Corinthians 1:10; 4:6 and Ephesians 4:11-13. The section in Ephesians is crucial; unfortunately, many churches lack this. If you back up to the book of Acts, you’ll find multiple times within the first 3 chapters that the disciples were on one accord. When that happened, miracles & blessings came. Many people were saved. We need a shake-up in our respective churches. I also understand that within this time, there were some coming with strange teachings, and as a result, wars would erupt. I believe this is a result of our division and us (as human beings) being downright selfish! We need to go back to the basics: where is your relationship with God (just between you and Him)? And I’m talking about, you studying the Bible and not based on what another person (whether it be a fellow church member, or your church leader)! The Bible is to be our standard, not the other way around.

All we have to do is put our personal agenda’s aside, and decide to agree to agree! Remember we need “U” in Unity!

Author Spotlight (Anastasia Means-Dallas)

Anastasia Means-Dallas is an author, educator, and gospel singer who currently resides in Atlanta, Georgia with her husband and kids.  She is originally from Tallahassee, Florida.  She received her B.S. Degree from Florida A & M University, her Masters in Reading from Nova Southeastern University, and she is currently working on her Doctoral Degree at Nova Southeastern University. 

Anastasia has a heart for God, and a passion for helping hurting people.  After experiencing a failed marriage, and other unhealthy relationships, she was able to take her experiences and capture them in a book.   Her first book,  “Waiting With A Purpose-A Guide to Finding Your Boaz,”  is a must read for singles.  This book takes nuggets from the biblical character Ruth’s life, and it gives the single woman wisdom as she fulfills her purpose in God while waiting on a mate.  The book also introduces “Roaz,” who happens to be a counterfeit Boaz.  Roaz represents the spirit of distraction and deception.

The book is available in most major bookstores and Amazon.com.  Anastasia is available for conferences and workshops.  You may contact her at anastasia.freeman@yahoo.com.

Church Issues (Unity - Prelude)

This is a very serious issue and it’s a deep concern to my spirit. I dedicate this series to anyone who says they’re a Christian and to anyone who’s an antagonist. I believe you all will be able to understand what I’m about to discuss.

I was able to attend a church in 1998 and the lesson was entitled “Together On One Accord.” The pastor asked all of us a question and it was simply this: what’s the greatest impact that the Church has made on the world (and I’d like to ask you the same question). Before you read further, just think on that (better yet, make a list). We said things such as salvation, faith, healing, and things of that sort.

If you did come up with your list, are you satisfied with what you wrote down? I’m willing to believe that your list is actually correct, but the pastor said these words, “our lack of togetherness – in short, division!” And that is going to be the topic of this Unity series.

Now I’m sure some of you were thinking of Queen Latifah’s U-N-I-T-Y. But that’s not what I will be discussing. But there’s a statement that says, united we stand, divided we fall. This is so true and so far, we are divided and falling away from true unity.

Jesus never showed partiality, He only showed impartiality (Matthew 22:16). Consider His genealogy, His residency in Nazareth and His willingness to minister in Galilee & Samaria. If He only showed impartiality, we have no right to put our church and/or denomination over the Bible (if we do that, that’s almost saying, that’s our lord and not Jesus). I can’t forget that churches can be divided by classes (whether it be low-income, middle-class or wealthy). We tend to look down on those who are not in the same class they are, therefore creating division.

Most of the problems in this world stem from the church, whether it’s due to the lack of silence, promoting the denomination’s agenda, the church’s agenda. We’re supposed to be about the Father’s business, but because of what I stated in my prior sentence, nobody (Christian or non-Christian) wants to get involved. Truthfully, I can’t fault them. While I’m on this particular subject, it’s interesting that you’ll find some churches that will promote themselves as the true church (and all other churches are either apostate or are tombstones) or the church that has true religion. Notice the problem here, the emphasis is on the church and not on Jesus. Now a question has to be asked and answered: if this is true, why is it that most people who will make the claim that their particular church either is the true church or religion, are so caught up in the world that they glorify the evil that’s in the world (I would even expand that to ask, are we not even sensitive when the world degrades the God you say you serve)? This is the mystery since we’re all reading from the same Bible that says that we were once in the world, but we’re to separate from the lifestyle of the world. Continuing on this topic, some churches are like one big social clique to the point they can’t stand to socialize with anyone that’s not part of their local church or denomination. I’d like to ask you plainly, what’s up with that? Apparently, we must’ve forgotten the passage in John where Jesus (being a Jew) was talking to a woman at the well (from Samaria). He was witnessing Himself to her, not a particular church (and that’s where we have failed seriously, which I believe is mainly due to pride).

An example of division (among us as Christians). One thing that troubles my spirit is when a Christian leader has the audacity to throw Israel under the bus (and nothing is said about it). Here’s the leader’s quote (from early 2008):

The Israelis have illegally occupied Palestinian territories for almost 40 years now. It took a divestment campaign to wake the business community up concerning the South Africa issue. Divestment has now hit the table again as a strategy to wake the business community up and to wake Americans up concerning the injustice and the racism under which the Palestinians have lived because of Zionism.

The Divestment issue will hit the floor during this month’s General Synod. Divesting dollars from businesses and banks that do business with Israel is the new strategy being proposed to wake the world up concerning the racism of Zionism. That Divestment issue won’t make the press either, however.

Apparently, this leader must not have read his bible (and yes, I made that comment)! Because Joel 3:2 pretty much says, God will judge those who divide Israel. We can not be a Christian and bash the nation of Israel. It can’t happen!

As I embark on my Unity blog in full (which will start next week) and hopefully I didn’t get too far ahead in this post: if you knew your church was talking against your race in the past, would you currently stay in your church?

Author Spotlight (Tracy L. Darity)

Tracy Darity (embed www.TracyLDarity.com ), the author of He Loves me He Loves Me Not! and Love…Like Snow In Florida on a Hot Summer Day is a lifelong resident of  St. Petersburg, Florida.  Her novels are released under the imprint of Teganjaz Books Presents… The title is a derived from the names of her three daughters, Shaunte, Morgan, and Jasmin, whom she attributes to her continued success in writing and publishing.

As a child Tracy always had a creative imagination and a love for reading.  In her early teens she began writing short stories as a hobby.  It was not until she attended the 1997 Essence Festival in New Orleans, Louisiana, that she decided she wanted to fulfill her dream of becoming a published author.   The words of Activist and TV Show Host, Tavis Smiley inspired her tremendously.  During his speech at one of the forums she jotted down this message, "We all have a God given talent but if you don't have the desire to define, develop, and deliver your talent, you will always be in the audience and never on stage."

Tracy returned home from the festival energized and began penning her first novel.  Although the manuscript was completed in late 1998, she became discouraged after receiving rejection letter after rejection letter from the publishing industry.  She shelved her manuscript but every now and then would pull it out and do minor rewrites.  The desire to have her work published still simmered deep inside.  In 2004 the flame inside of her reignited and she made the decision to pursue self-publishing.  As time passed she began to feel discouraged again but refused to give up.  She did research, talked with other self-published authors, and continued to believe that her dream would one day become a reality.  Today she is enjoying the success of, He Loves Me He Loves Me Not! and, Love…Like Snow In Florida On A Hot Summer Day.  Her third release, The Red Bear Society, a powerful story that will explore the aftermath of high positive HIV readings at a local high school, after a blood drive to assist an injured student.  The release is slated for a December 1, 2011, to coincide with World’s AIDS Day.

To learn more about Tracy L. Darity, and her novels, please visit www.TracyLDarity.com.  You can also click here (not sure if you embed links or not  http://archive.constantcontact.com/fs028/1102365104718/archive/1103607728924.html ) for a more intimate look at the author.

Books are available in Trade Paperback, Hardcover (He Loves Me He Loves Me Not!), Amazon Kindle, and Barnes & Noble Nook.  To purchase:

Author Website (http://www.tracyldarity.com/apps/webstore/), Amazon or Barnes & Noble.

Church Issues (Minorities & The Church)

I don’t take the credit for writing this post (however, I did make a few modifications). This post will be a prelude to the next topic which will be Unity. I know this is a very touchy subject especially for minorities because we'll fall so deep into a church and its traditions because it's all we know (passed down from generation to generation). I'm not saying that's totally wrong, but I ask that you do some independent thinking and learn all you can about the church you go to (and please, ask questions). The flip side is that we'll go to a church based on our feelings even though the church may not be right for us (I'm not saying this is a cause not to go to church at all).

It’s a sad truth that the church is the most racist organization that has ever existed. Because the church has allowed the devil to creep in churches, some have taken the name Christianity and used it to subjugate people and put off on them the aura of inferiority. The result is that minorities have put off Christianity to turn to other religions (ex. African-Americans dumped Christianity to turn to Islam – specifically the Nation of Islam). Why is that? It gives the appearance that the NOI has the African-American interest at heart and Christianity doesn’t.

Just because some people got together, bought ski masks and decided to rob a bank in a Ford truck, doesn’t mean that the Ford truck is bad! The same holds true: just because some people took the Bible and used for ulterior motives, doesn’t mean the Bible is bad! We must find out if there’s any validity in Christianity or are we going to be directed by what some idiotic person does! You don’t throw the baby out with the bath water. A lot of people of color dumped Christianity because of what Caucasian people have done (use the Bible for ulterior motives to keep people in slavery). Think about it: Muhammad had slaves; Jesus had disciples (not slaves). Anyway, it’s obvious that they weren’t Christians. Just because somebody says they’re something, doesn’t mean it’s true! We must find out if there’s any validity in the Bible (irrespective if somebody tries to disprove it or somebody tries to rewrite the Bible their way). Let’s try some independent thinking for a moment (I’ll talk more on independent thinking in Unity). Don’t dump the Bible because you are missing a great benefit to your life! I know people have misused things, but I have to find out the Truth of God for myself (reading, studying the Word & praying). I have found that God is no respecter of persons! I have found that His Word is life to me! I have found that His Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path!

The beauty of God is that He doesn’t see any distinctions with our external appearances and skin color; unfortunately, we do. We need to rise above it. I don’t want to get too far ahead in this, because this is leading up to the Unity blog.

We can’t get to God except through Christ. We can’t get to Him through Muhammad or Confucius, Buddha or any other prophet. If God is the Creator, then He makes the rules (and has that right). If you were to read Ephesians 1:3, you’ll find no gender or ethnicity mentioned in that verse! No one can pull that over us now, because we can read. And this is why it was a crime for minorities to read back then. That’s how people were messed over because they couldn’t read. I can appreciate the mode of operation (not accept it) because that’s how you can control people through ignorance. Unfortunately, it was done through the church (and the church got in line with it – I’m referring to the organized and/or denominational church). In fact, some people will say that because Ham (from Noah's day) was part of the Cush tribe and because Noah cursed Canaan (not Ham) that it was OK to keep its descendants in slavery, supposedly minorities, which is far from the truth. Also, there are some churches that say they accept all races, but if you research the history, their doctrine is covered with racism and that minorities are a curse. I pose a question to that: would you stay in a church like that if you're a minority and found this out, knowing that you could possibly be a pawn to the church to boost the church's ego? And why is it that activist groups have to get churches to change their racist ways in order for minorities to participate in the church's doctrine? Would you still want to go a church like that if you're a minority? As I stated earlier, God doesn't see color, man does (in fact, there's a song I remember that went colors don't hate, people do). 

Now let’s be real for a moment: God never covers things up. The church as a worldwide organization has been covering things up and it’s time for exposure. Judgment must begin at the house of God. Since we are the house of God, it has to start with us! It must be exposed. See you on the next blog.

Author Spotlight (Kena Bwembya)

This week's author spotlight will shine on my sister & fellow author Kena Bwembya.

Kena Bwembya is the owner of Keeping With the Industry Publishing (KWI) and the author of Saved for a Season. Bwembya is a graduate of Texas Southern University's Thurgood Marshall School of Law and Chestnut Hill College. She resides in Florida with her husband, Charles.

Mrs. Bwembya loves to write fiction and is working on her second novel Chasing the Sun. Find our more at www.kenabwembya.com

About the Book:

Saved for a Season is a heartwarming, inspirational fiction novel that covers love and friendship in a realistic and entertaining way. You will relate to the character's humanness and cringe at their mistakes but love the way they overcome obstacles.

High school sweethearts reconnect at a much anticipated wedding in the small town of Cobbleville, Florida. Though once grounded in friendship and faith, each have new struggles that threaten their friendships and marriages. Struggles that have the promise of leading some to self-destruction. Will Lela, Jake, Tristan and Jeff make the choice to live and love without fear?

Church Issues (Faith vs. Works)

Hebrews 11:1 says: Now faith is the substance of things hoped for; the evidence of things not seen. Between this passage and the last few verses of James 2 has been a struggle for many people. It’s been so much of a struggle that many people have left the church over. I’d like to address this particular topic because we all can get it twisted sometimes. Having said that, I pray that you have an open mind and heart as you read this.

Some people will say that faith is more important than works.

Some people will say that works is more important than faith.

Both of those sentences have caused major confusion. If the truth be told, both faith and works are equally important, no more or less. A proper balance is needed.

For those who say faith is more important than works. Let’s talk about this for a moment. Some people will have faith in multiple things: such as a car, money, a new job, a new business and that’s fine. Notice that those are things that are unseen yet. Here’s a thought: if we have faith in those things mentioned above, how come we don’t step out on faith and do what we’re called to do? Have we become part of the rat race (and complacent)? Before we go further, hold my feet to the fire on this (ensuring that I’m not complacent and that I also step out on faith to do what I’m called to do). What I’m talking about here is a prime example of faith without works is dead.

A great example: I believe I’m called to be a singer and songwriter, but I sit on my talent because I’m scared of what’s going to happen. I could face rejection or my family and friends will laugh at me.

This example shows that you have faith in your calling, but no works are added to it. There’s a passage in Luke 14:28-33 that says “for which of you intends to build a tower sits down first and count the cost.” Why is this statement so important? Because a verse or two later, it’s stated if the tower is not completed, that person will be a laughing stock (yes, I’m paraphrasing that, but you get the point).

Some can go overboard with faith and say that it’s more important than works, hope and love. Faith can’t do anything without works, hope and love.

For those who say works are more important than faith. Let’s talk about this for a moment. Some people say that works are mandatory in order to ensure your salvation. Well, yes & no. Yes, because your works demonstrates your faith; however, works doesn’t ensure your salvation. It’s recorded in the Old Testament that our works according to God are nothing more than a filthy rag. I don’t know about you, but that doesn’t sound too good. Christ died for us in order to have salvation without any part of ours (accept to receive it from Him). If our works determined how clean we are, then we could be clean by rolling in mud.

I need to add that Paul & the book of Hebrews were referring to faith from a vertical standpoint (man to God and vice versa); James was referring to faith from a horizontal standpoint (brother/sister to brother/sister). When you read passages such as Titus 2:5 and Ephesians 2:8-10, you’ll find that faith precedes the works and the works are evidence of our faith. Notice the balance here. You can’t have one without the other (and must be balanced).

Author Spotlight (Irma Clark)

I turn the spotlight on my sister & fellow author Irma Clark.

Irma Clark is the author of A Perfect Match, an adoption story. She is a graduate of Florida State University currently living in Tallahassee, Florida. Also, she is a member of the Tallahassee Authors Network because she enjoys spending time with other authors to motivate her writing career. Her novel is an adoption story written in Christian fiction.
Irma is working on her second novel entitled, The Barren Woman.

Church Issues (Loss of Identity)

I’m starting on a blog series that has been on my spirit since June of this year. I was debating on Sunday whether to subtitle this Loss of Identity or Free Thinking. As you can see, Loss of Identity won. This particular post has been on my spirit for a couple weeks. It’s my heart’s prayer that you open your mind, heart & spirit to this. I believe God will bless your spirit totally if you can stay through this entire post. I need to thank one of my sisters for these thought provoking questions, which will be how I start this blog (and for some additional thoughts within this blog). I modified some of the questions a little bit for all to participate.

Take this moment and think about your life before you joined your respective church and now that you’re in your respective church. Here are some questions for you to ponder:

1. How was your relationship with your parents, siblings, and friends?
2. Were you always in a defensive mode?
3. Were you always on guard?
4. Did you always feel like you have to hide the truth about your past or current church?
5. Are you openly sharing the teachings of your current church?
6. Have your habits changed?
7. Have your eating or sleeping habits changed?
8. Do you feel nervous or on edge?
9. Do you still hang out with your friends from the past on a regular basis?
10. When was the last time you called them asking to hang out or just talk?
11. What about your music choices, have they changed?
12. Has your prayer life and prayer language changed?
13. Has your vocabulary changed?  How many words have different meanings now that you’re attending your current church?
14. Do you listen to Christian radio or visit Christian bookstores or did you used to?
15. What about God?  How is your relationship with Him?  Be honest with yourself and God.
16. How many times have you chosen to lie to your loved ones about anything to do with your new church?
17. Ladies: when was the last time you wore a pair of pants/jeans or sandals to church on Sunday?  Have you stopped wearing two pairs of earrings if you have double piercings?
18. Men: when was the last time you went to church on Sunday without wearing a tie and slacks?  Have you stopped wearing earrings if your ears are pierced?

If your responses came out more on the negative side to where you’ve shunned your friends & family away, you might have lost your identity to the church and its doctrine. This is just a little something to think about.

Now, I used to go to a church where we all (men & women) were under the leader’s control. I’ll use this one clip because I will cover different clips under a different topic.

I think back to my former church and it was mandatory that we men go to the Men's Bible Studies (M-F at 6am). There were times I would register for classes either at 7am or on Thursday night intentionally just to get a break from it. Our pastor would go so far as to say we were in sin if we didn't do what he says. If we missed a Thursday night service or a Sunday service, we were taking a vacation from God. How’s that for control! He said that the wives had to be homemakers, and they were in sin if they worked. A man was not supposed to cook, that was the woman's job. There was a couple where the husband was living a double personality. He was trying so hard to be himself, but he didn't want to hear a lecture all about him being in sin if he didn't implement what the pastor told him to do (causing him to lose his own identity). My former pastor was good for making a Sunday lesson (or a Men’s Bible Study) on people who didn’t do what the pastor said. The end result was a loss of his identity, the couple divorced and they both left the church. I actually left the church a week or two after they did. Just from that, you can gain an idea of what we went through (I stayed there from August 1998 to May 2000).

There are many churches where people can't think for themselves. It's a tragedy!

The beauty of God is He gives us the power of choice. We have the choice to do right or to do wrong, but we will reap what we sow. Churches designed by God are taught to listen to Him through reading His word, gaining counsel from your pastors, parents and friends and to think for you. Domineering churches (like my former church) are taught to listen to the leader because he has made all of the decisions for you. I will add this: my former pastor was so domineering to where he decided who you married. Here’s the tragedy, most of those he married, are now divorced once they left the church.

Here are some more characteristics of a domineering church (and I’d strongly consider you leaving for your sanity):

1. Every single action you participate in with a church is determined by your pastor of the local congregation.
2. You will be told when to go to church and where.  You’ll be told how to dress, what to eat and drink, what to study and when.  You only serve on the worship team or child care when the pastor calls to let you know they have an opening that needs to be filled

Ladies, would you sit under a religions organization that's telling you what to do and you have no right to question it OR would you continue to sit under that kind of teaching even if you know that teaching is far off or contradictory? If you are currently sitting under a domineering church like what I mentioned above, why are you still there? If you have fears of leaving, talk to me. I left my former church and they actually came looking for me. But I have my freedom.

Author Spotlight (Shelia M. Goss)

This week's author spotlight is on my sister & fellow author Shelia M. Goss. I was privileged to ask her some questions, and I believe her responses will inspire you to go forward (especially if you're an aspiring author).

Shelia M. Goss writes in multiple genres. She is the author of the Essence Magazine, Dallas Morning News and Black Expressions Bestseller My Invisible Husband and Roses are thorns, Violets are true, Paige’s Web, Double Platinum, His Invisible Wife, Hollywood Deception, Delilah (January 2011), and Savannah’s Curse (February 2011). She’s also the author of the young adult book series The Lip Gloss Chronicles: The Ultimate Test, Splitsville, and Paper Thin.

Her books are available in stores or from any of the online retailers or order direct from www.kensingtonbooks.com.

Her 10th novel, Delilah,  was released in January 2011 and it’s her first Christian fiction novel. Her suspense novel, Savannah’s Curse will be in stores at the end of February 2011.

Shelia also writes young adult fiction. Be sure to share the news of her books with a teen in your life. The website is www.thelipglosschronicles.com. The Ultimate Test, Splitsville, and Paper Thin are the three books in the Lip Gloss Chronicles series.

Although Shelia has a Bachelor of Science in Engineering, her passion for writing has always been there. Shelia decided to pursue her life-long dream after being down-sized from a fortune 500 company.

She’s received many accolades since embarking on a writing career:

• 2011 EDC Creations Top Books Award - Delilah
• 2010 Dallas Morning News Best Seller - Paper Thin: The Lip Gloss Chronicles Vol. 3
• 2009 EDC Creations Top Books Award – His Invisible Wife
• 2009 EDC Creations Author of the Year – Lip Gloss Chronicles series
• 2009 Amazon Best seller - His Invisible Wife, The Ultimate Test, & Splitsville
• 2008 BlackWebAwards.com – Best Female Author Site
• Disilgoldsoul 2007 YOUnity Guild Award – Most Outstanding Book Debut Promotions- “Paige’s Web”
• Infini’s Outstanding Author 2006
• Literary Divas: The Top 100+ Most Admired African-American Women in Literature
• ESSENCE MAGAZINE Bestsellers List
• #1 Black Expressions.com Bestseller
• Honorable mention in a New York Times article & Writer’s Digest article
• 2004 OneSwan Productions Female Author of the Year
• Three Shades of Romance Magazine Reader’s Choice Awards
• Dallas Morning News Bestseller

Was there a time as you were writing, you thought about quitting (and what made you keep going)?

No. I've always enjoyed writing. I write because there's something within me that won't allow me to NOT write.

What are your sources of inspiration when you write your novels?

Life is my inspiration. I sit, observe and listen. Ideas are planted and usually come to the forefront of my mind via dreams.

How did you overcome the adversity when people reject your book?

Since I feel like my writing is a God given talent, I wouldn't or couldn't allow rejections to stop me from pursuing the path that I went on. I used the rejections to give me the fuel I needed to push forward.

What would you want to say to those who know they’re to be writing, but don’t make the time to follow-through?

If you want to be a writer, then write. Don't talk about it, do it.  If you're waiting to find enough time to write, you'll never write a paragraph. You have to make time to write. If you need to get up early or stay up late to do so, then do it. Remove the excuses from your way of life and just write.

Which project was your longest project to complete?

The longest project was a book that I collaborated on with another writer. We had two different schedules so when you're partnering with someone else, you have to make time adjustments.

Was writing your ultimate dream in life?

Yes. I've been wanting to be a writer since I was a freshman in high school; maybe even before then since I've always been on the newspaper staff or yearbook staff.

What are your thoughts on authors needing to support each other and needing to not compete against each other?

For the most part, authors are very supportive of one another. We each pass on information about our peers books as well as purchase our peers books. Once a reader finishes reading one of our books, they are eager to read other books.  As an avid reader, I love discussing books with my network of people.

When you started your first project, was it mandatory that you believed in yourself?

Absolutely.  You have to believe in yourself first, before anyone else will.

When is your best time in the day to write?

I write better in the morning.

What do you want readers to know about you?

I'm down to earth. I love my family and cherish my friendships. I'm shy but I'm also a people's person.  I love stylish purses.

What do you want readers to understand when they read your works?

I want readers to not only be entertained but encouraged or inspired after reading some of my books.

Apart from writing, what else do you like to do or what else are you gifted in?

I love doing graphics work. I do banners, websites, etc. It started off as a hobby but has blossomed into extra income to me.

More information about her can be found on her website: www.sheliagoss.com