As I was sitting on my patio today, basking in the eighty-degree sun on an Oklahoma February day, I took in the sounds of nature around me, saw a few wintering birds spreading their wings, and felt the warmth of sunshine on my body. I wondered if the birds were ready to migrate back to the spring-like temperatures. My thoughts turned as I contemplated the seasons in our lives that come and go. I quenched my thirst with a glass of cold water and paused as I began to think about the new season I am entering.
It’s the night before my book launch, and I am excited and nervous to see what the next season holds. Life has a way of happening, charting its course, and often brings you to your path of purpose. Sometimes, as one friend said, what you have been through in your life is training for your life purpose.
I will never forget the day my good friend told me I helped a lot of people in my career, but I wasn’t done yet, and now I was going to help others by sharing my story. Nor will I forget entering one of the most prestigious writing contests in Oklahoma. I had never entered a writing contest and entered my work in the unpublished book category, which was a premier category to win. The competition was tough, with many experienced writers and a lot of entries. My mouth dropped open as I heard my name as the first-place award winner, and I waited to hear my name a second time before I timidly walked up to the stage to claim my award. I was even more shocked when the judge who awarded me first place said, “This is a story that needs to be shared and read.”
Encouraged by this win, my journey continued. I met so many wonderful, fabulous people and immediately took to learning the writing craft. I had so much to learn.
Many times, I wanted to cry and give up, and I didn’t know if I had the courage to share my story. One by one, people began to champion me; some shed tears as they listened to part of my story, and another said I must have had a phoenix wingspan to endure all I did. The confirmations continued. I was told my story was filled with many messages and layers of hope that needed sharing. As I shared my story, others shared theirs, and we found commonalities. I discovered we empower others when we share, give them courage and strength to overcome, and embrace the universal language of love.
Along my writing journey, I continued to have doubts and insecurities. What if I fail? What if? What if? And I recalled what I heard long ago, “It’s better to fail in trying than never to try at all.” Then, I took a breath and thought, what if – I helped one person, what if I saved a life? So, I did what I’ve always done in my life: I got up and carried on with hope in my heart and a dream that we can change the world, one person at a time.
Today I want to be an inspiration to others, to make a difference, to give others hope, and leave this world a better place. And so, I write.
Until next time – Read, write, and learn…J
