Blog Archives
Look Within to See the Real You
Life Inside a Brown Paper Bag is a collection of poetry written to encourage readers to challenge their own thinking about everyday life. What was the inspiration for this collection?
I don’t consider myself a poet or a writer. However, over time, and with a good deal of experiences under one’s belt, you should be able to arrange the 170,000 + words of the English language into some form of readable compendium that sets itself apart from other works. The collection of poems and/or sentiments that comprise Life Inside a Brown Paper Bag are largely autobiographical, that is, they occurred in some shape or form during my 73 years on Earth. They are neither unique nor extraordinary in and of themselves, but take on their own peculiar perspective under the backdrop of the medium in which they are presented.
Do you have a selection within this book that particularly resonates with you?
I think the poem The Park demonstrates what I am trying to disburse. In any given day and at any given moment there is both peace and chaos in the world. Depending on your current placement in life, whatever you are experiencing is likewise being experienced by thousands of others, while millions of others are experiencing vastly different matters. There is no universal equality in life or events. Take your peace and your turmoil with balanced sensitivity.
How did you decide on the unique title for your collection?
The title of the book is taken from a poem within, which tries to remind one that the simplicity of life is usually far more satisfying than the convoluted and arduous path that most people take. We seem to have turned life into more of a struggle by amassing an assortment of unnecessary examinations on our thoughts and deeds. Joy becomes only a biproduct instead of a first fruit.
What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?
I enjoyed writing this book. I have read and reread it hundreds of times, with innumerable changes over approximately 9 years. It sat for months like a dormant volcano, and erupted at others times like a rabid dog. Whether another volume is on the horizon is hard to say. I constantly look around me and think…that’s interesting, I could write about that…but if I don’t put it down on paper right away it fades like a cloud in the sky. I really just wanted to put together something that makes people look within themselves. That’s where you’ll find the real you.
The Power of a True Story
In GodSway: My Anecdotes with God, you share with readers the story of how your faith and love for God have forever changed the course of your life. Why was this an important book for you to write?
It was important for a couple of reasons. First, I knew the Spirit had impressed upon me that my God=encounters would be encouraging to others. As an educator, I’d seen the power of a true story – especially one about overcoming some hardship or difficulty. It’s inspiring. Second, it’s so important for people to know that God is pursuing them, drawing them in, even when their faith is small, and they are full of doubts. He sometimes goes to extraordinary measures to get our attention or to demonstrate His faithfulness. God is not just the Lord of the Bible, He is active and engaging with us today, still doing the same good work He has always done.
I appreciated the candid nature with which you told your story. What was the hardest thing for you to write about?
It was especially difficult to write about the traumas surrounding Brian’s illness and the house fire. I wrote with tears in my eyes and a knot in my stomach as I relived the profound dread and subsequent relief of those events.
What do you hope is one thing readers take away from your story?
That you don’t have to be some super spiritual giant for God to do extraordinary and even supernatural things in your life. You just have to know that He loves you; that He has promised to be with you and never leave you; to take care of you and provide for you. Then you have to take Him at His word and rest in the knowledge that He is looking out for you, even when it may not seem like it in the moment.
What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?
There are a couple of projects I want to do, but the next one will probably be the collection of immigrant stories, from my days as an ESL teacher. Possibly, sometime next year.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website | Amazon
Diana Skidmore Keathley’s journey-of-faith account details a lifetime of extraordinary divine encounters. Messages from God in her childhood were countered by episodes of engulfing fear, culminating in one terrifying attack. In a last-ditch effort to rid herself of the torment, she challenged God’s love for her and trusted Him to overcome the darkness. God responded and filled her life with a heavenly outpouring of messages, dreams, and outright miracles, molding her into a woman of audacious faith in the powerfully loving and intimately involved Creator.
GodSway: My Anecdotes With God
In GodSway: My Anecdotes with God, Diana Skidmore Keathley invites readers on a poignant journey of self-discovery and spiritual exploration, narrated through the lens of her personal experiences. The memoir intricately chronicles her childhood, highlighting early recognition of her talents and the profound impact of her upbringing. Keathley delves into the nuances of establishing one’s identity, especially within the demanding world of music, from her initial performances in childhood to navigating the complexities of high school glee club.
Central to the narrative is Keathley’s contemplation of faith, particularly the concept of substitutionary atonement and the implications of Jesus’ sacrifice. Her introspection and questions add a philosophical depth to the memoir, inviting readers to reflect alongside her. The author’s style is both reflective and earnest, creating a connection that encourages readers to engage with her journey intimately. The memoir is structured chronologically, lending coherence and fluidity to the storytelling. Keathley’s account of her evolving talent is not just a testament to her personal growth but also a representation of the universal quest to pursue one’s passion amidst fear and societal pressures.
Themes of identity, confidence, and self-discovery are interwoven, enhancing the book’s relatability. The highs and lows of her journey, depicted with vivid descriptions and engaging dialogues, add layers of realism and approachability. GodSway stands as a unique amalgamation of personal memoir, spiritual inquiry, and life reflections. Its appeal spans a wide range of readers: from those intrigued by stories of personal growth and existential musings to individuals undergoing similar life transitions or seeking spiritual guidance. The book’s accessible language and sincere tone further enhance its allure. The strength of this book lies in Keathley’s vulnerability and candidness, which resonate powerfully throughout the narrative. Her careful handling of the delicate subject of faith, marked by thoughtful vocabulary and phrasing, speaks to her sensitivity as an author. The book’s ability to balance thematic discussions with just the right amount of personal narrative is noteworthy.
For readers drawn to introspective memoirs that inspire self-reflection and offer insights into spiritual and personal growth, GodSway: My Anecdotes with God, by Diana Skidmore Keathley, is a compelling read. Keathley’s skillful storytelling and heartfelt reflections make the book not just a narrative of her life, but a mirror for readers to examine their own journeys.
Pages: 174 | ASIN : B0C71456P4
Life Inside a Brown Paper Bag
Life Inside a Brown Paper Bag, by Richard Burridge, presents a unique exploration of the human psyche through the lens of poetry. In this collection, Burridge extends an invitation to readers for a journey into the depths of human emotions and experiences. The metaphorical title hints at the themes of concealment and revelation that play a central role in the narrative.
Burridge’s expertise in blending language with emotion shines throughout the collection. His poems serve as gateways, offering glimpses into various aspects of the human soul. The language used is striking and elegant, capturing the ebb and flow of feelings like joy, grief, love, and despair with remarkable finesse.
One of the standout qualities of this compilation is its universal appeal, intertwined with a deeply personal essence. Burridge navigates a wide array of emotions, creating a sense of connection and understanding with his audience. The collection covers diverse themes, from the fleeting nature of time to the enduring strength of the human spirit. The use of vivid imagery and metaphors throughout the book enriches the reader’s experience, with each poem standing on its own as a distinct piece. The rhythm and flow of the verses contribute to a melodious reading experience, adding depth to the emotional resonance of the poetry. Life Inside a Brown Paper Bag showcases Burridge’s ability to balance profound themes with approachable language. This makes the collection appealing to a wide audience, including both avid poetry readers and those new to the genre.
Richard Burridge’s Life Inside a Brown Paper Bag is a compelling exploration of life’s complexities and beauties. It encourages introspection and a deeper understanding of our own experiences, making it a significant addition to contemporary poetry.
Pages: 300 | ASIN : B0CL4V1CSH
Rise of a Lightworker
Rise of a Lightworker by Will Sibley offers a compelling and reflective journey into the life of a man who embraced healing on both an energetic and spiritual level. This concise yet impactful narrative engages the reader with its candid first-person account of Sibley’s experiences, from his early years in North London through challenging times as a young adult to his eventual discovery and dedication to spiritual healing practices.
Sibley’s storytelling, devoid of any pretense, candidly addresses his struggles, including his encounters with alcohol addiction and depression. This openness, combined with a whimsical and grounded tone, allows readers to connect deeply with his life’s journey. His transformation, marked by a profound experience with a spiritual presence, paves the way for his embrace of Spiritualist principles and Reiki healing.
The book shines a light on the nuanced path of a healer. Sibley’s humble recounting of his work with individuals suffering from various ailments, including cancer and arthritis, provides an insightful and humble perspective. The narrative goes beyond the aesthetics often portrayed in modern media, revealing the discipline and dedication required in the healing arts. Sibley’s life story is shown with a sense of sobering and inspiring realism. His resilience and acceptance of life’s challenges, coupled with his discovery of Reiki as a means of aiding others and achieving personal serenity, is enlightening and offers a compelling introduction to the world of spiritual healing.
Rise of a Lightworker is not just a memoir; it is an invitation to understand the depth and discipline of a healer’s life, making it a valuable read for those interested in spiritual development and healing practices.
Pages: 159 | ASIN : B07LB1Q4K7
Christianity 2.0: How Amazing New Advances in the Religious Realm Can Ignite a Religious Revival
Christianity 2.0 offers an insightful examination of the evolving nature of religious belief, with a particular focus on Christianity’s adaptation to the modern world. The author, John Dorsey, explores the intersections of traditional religious thought with contemporary ideas and advancements, especially in kinesiology, to offer fresh perspectives on spiritual journeys and salvation.
The book critically assesses the trajectory of Christianity, suggesting a shift away from its original principles. Dorsey presents a provocative argument that the integration of certain texts into the Bible may have impacted the religion’s perceived authenticity and potency. He navigates through a range of theological topics, including karma, the essence of salvation, and the concept of reincarnation, providing a comprehensive look at various spiritual and philosophical viewpoints.
One of the distinctive features of Christianity 2.0 is its attempt to bridge scientific inquiry and religious doctrine. The integration of kinesiology into the discussion of faith and empirical evidence offers a unique perspective that will intrigue readers with an interest in unorthodox theological debates. I think it’s worth noting, however, that this approach might not align with the views of those with more traditional religious beliefs, emphasizing the importance of an open-minded approach to the book.
Dorsey enriches his narrative by drawing on insights from David R. Hawkins, blending academic research with personal interpretation. This combination adds a layer of scholarly depth while encouraging readers to critically engage with the ideas presented. The book advocates for significant reforms in Christianity, including changes to the canonical Bible, a concept likely to spark diverse reactions among readers.
While individual responses to Christianity 2.0 may vary based on personal beliefs and receptiveness to new concepts, the book prompts deep contemplation on the nature of faith and spirituality. The author’s suggestions, such as using muscle testing as a method to determine truth and revising biblical texts, are bold and invite critical examination.
Christianity 2.0 is a well-crafted exploration that challenges readers to reconsider established religious doctrines and opens up new avenues for discussion on the often-neglected nuances of religious dialogue.
Pages: 198 | ASIN : B0CKN8JV3K
The Lord’s Prayer for Children
The Lord’s Prayer for Children is a delightful children’s book that provides a fresh perspective on a timeless prayer. Written by Claire Abraham, this book reimagines the beloved Lord’s Prayer, tailoring it to the comprehension level of young readers.
This book is a valuable resource for parents seeking to introduce their children to the practice of prayer. Acknowledging that the traditional vocabulary might be challenging, Abraham skillfully dissects each line of the prayer into simpler words. This approach allows children to grasp the prayer’s significance, facilitating a meaningful connection with their parents and active participation in prayer rituals. Enhancing the book’s appeal are its vibrant illustrations. These visuals not only captivate readers but also celebrate the rich diversity among God’s children. With each turn of the page, a multitude of characters come to life, serving as a visual testament to the unity that threads through the essence of spirituality.
The Lord’s Prayer for Children, by Claire Abraham, merits a prominent place on any child’s bookshelf. Beyond simplifying a sacred prayer for young readers, it fosters an understanding of faith and its personal connection. The book’s approach serves as a catalyst for parents to engage in insightful discussions about prayer’s significance, promoting deeper spiritual connections. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone invested in nurturing a child’s spiritual journey, using the gentle beauty of prayer as a guiding light.
Pages: 26 | ISBN : 978-1664299955
I Want Mary’s Story To Come Alive
The Chosen One: Mary’s Story follows a young Jewish girl caught on the brink of marriage as she discovers her divine calling to give birth to the son of God, in a narrative that weaves ancient events with modern-day language. Why was this an important book for you to write?
I began to think of Mary as a young pregnant unwed teenager. Today that is common. In those days, it meant death. I wanted to portray her thoughts and fears – and yet her strength in her faith in God.
How did you approach making this ancient narrative accessible to contemporary readers?
I wanted to show Mary with close friends and a loving family. I attempted to show her interaction with contemporary thoughts while still adhering as close as possible to Jewish traditions and values. My goal was to make the story come alive for many who may have never heard it.
The characters are portrayed as multi-dimensional. How did you go about developing them to show the human side of these biblical figures?
I did a lot of research for this book through Jewish history and mythology, as well as scriptural references. It is thought that Mary was only around 13-14 when she gave birth to Jesus. Joseph may have been much older. Jewish history gives a lot of detail to places and the timeline of Mary’s visit to her relative, Elizabeth, as well as the birth of Jesus and what drove them to Bethlehem.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I am working on a YA thriller about child trafficking that will hopefully be out in 2024.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website | Amazon
When the angel appeared to her, she knew there would be consequences. What would people think? Her act of obedience could become her death – and yet, she willingly accepted her mission. She only hoped Joseph would understand….
The Chosen One – Mary’s Story is Mary’s account from her perspective. It will take you into her thoughts and hopes from her betrothal up through Jesus’s birth and flight to Egypt. Through biblical history, Jewish history, myth, and legend, the story will bring new revelations to this age-old Bible story.
LITERARY TITAN 