Awakening Stories is a collection of personal essays written by twenty-three individuals who share their spiritual and emotional transformations. What was the inspiration behind putting together this collection of stories about personal awakening?

After navigating my own spiritual transformation over the past ten years and listening to the stories of others, I recognized a pattern. People often felt alone, sometimes crazy, as if no one else could possibly understand what they were going through. Since these types of experiences are so unique— deeply personal and often traumatic—it is important that we break the stigma and mystery surrounding spiritual awakenings. This anthology covers a variety of themes and experiences in the hope that readers will find at least one story that resonates, realizing that they are not alone and are always supported.

What was your process to collect the stories, and how did you decide what to include in this anthology?

For this anthology, I sought out authors from diverse demographic backgrounds who had successfully navigated a variety of life-changing journeys. I wanted readers to see themselves in those stories, to know that they are not crazy, not alone, and that there is light at the end of the tunnel. The authors who said “yes” to this project recognized the importance of sharing; they were willing to be vulnerable in order to assist others. They felt called to this project, and I am in gratitude for their contribution.

Did you find anything in your research of this book that surprised you, or that you found especially moving?

What surprised me, truly, was the authors’ courage—their willingness to tell their stories boldly and revisit sometimes painful memories. Even those who didn’t experience a “dark night of the soul” had navigated events that were challenging for them to integrate, such as an NDE, UFO encounter, or out-of-body experience. As the anthology editor, I was moved by their strength and tremendously grateful for their gift to humanity.

What is one thing that you hope readers take away from Awakening Stories?

My hope is that readers who have navigated (or may, in the future), their own spiritual transformation will find advice, refuge, and strength in these stories…that they will recognize themselves in the words of our authors and know that, though the ride might be bumpy, the outcome will be beautiful.

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