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December 2009, Authors Corner

Author of the Month: Jennifer Wilford

Tue, Dec 01, 2009

This month's Author of the month is Blessed Therapy. From A Writer's POV sat down with the author to get to know her and her book, "Blessed: Therapy, A True Story"

Author of the Month: Jennifer Wilford

Not only is Jennifer an author, she's also the owner and designer of Je'Designs, which is a freelance graphic design and promotional company. Jennifer had a vivid imagination as a young girl. She loved to write and draw. In her own words, she explains how she was a young child and how she came to writing. "I would make up stories about everything around me from my toys, to friends, school and pets. My professional background as a writer did not evolve until I experienced the tragedy of losing both of my parents last year. I needed an "out" for my pain. Writing allows me to release the pain from my parents death and express my true feelings. Sometimes face to face communication is difficult. Direct communication can sometimes bring about feelings of intimidation, judgment and create a barrier. Yet, when you express yourself on paper, to some degree you are hiding behind your words. Well, I became comfortable in my written expressions and Blessed Therapy was born and I felt free. No longer did I worry about other people’s opinions or having to see others facial expressions as I shed tears during the experience. I opened up my heart and let the words flow through my fingers." You know must writers have a deep story behind the reason they write. It's inspirational stories like this that make us understand another persons words. I asked Jennifer about her support system. She told me about those that support her and keep her going. "My support system is prayer and the encouragement of family and friends. God is truly my healer because there are days when the burden and pain of their death is more than I can bear. But when I feel like giving up, I remember the cross and the pain Jesus endured for us. I have found a newness of strength to carry on. I turned my fear of being without my parents into Faith that God will never leave me or forsake me. I don’t worry anymore, because he carries me; there is only one set of footprints in the sand."

 

The name of Jennifer's book is "Blessed: Therapy, A True Story" I love this title. It catchy and interesting. Jennifer explains how this story came about. " I needed a venue to express my pain, because speaking with a therapist did not seem to help. Losing my parents within 10 months of each other really had an effect on me, as it would anyone. Rather than self destruct, I began to write through my pain. God told me to write this book. During the process, God gave me the title and the deadline as to when I needed to finish. My obedience evolved into a memoir. No one should have to experience the pain that I endured, but everything happens for a reason. You can’t tell a story, if you haven’t been through the test. If Jesus endured pain for us, then what makes me any better than him, that I shouldn’t endure pain, too? My mother and father’s death gave me a new life, because I walked away from nearly 20 years of being in the alternative lifestyle. I rededicated my life to Christ so that I may become a positive influence for those going through challenging circumstances. The characters listed in the book are all family. The primary characters are my mother and father along with several cousins, aunts and friends. The surviving family members consented to my sharing the story without alterations."

I asked Jennifer what message she was trying to send with this book. This is what she had to say. "I want readers to value life. Regardless of what happens all must learn to treasure each day with loved ones and not allow issues to hinder relationships. I feel that no matter what the issues are from the past, that is where they should remain- in the past. When you lose them, you can’t get the simple moments back. Life is not guaranteed, only death is. No matter what is wrong or went wrong, make it right before it is too late. I was blessed to have had a wonderful relationship with my parents and it is that knowledge that comforts me during the difficult times. "

The book was published through author house in September 2009. It can be purchased at  www.authorhouse.com, www.amazon.com, www.bn.com

So what's next for the author? "I am currently working on my second book, Back from the Closet, which will consist of my past experiences in the lesbian life as well as the new life that I have embarked on since walking away. I am also starting a non-profit organization, Ladies in Remission. The organization will focus on women who have walked away from the life. I want the organization to serve as a safe haven free from judgment but rather acceptance. I would love for L.I.R. to  assist the elderly who have been forgotten and left in nursing homes to die. Many are abused by the hands of their caregivers. I just want them to know that someone cares. No one should live a life of loneliness and  abandonment." Jennifer also like to spend her days reading, cookine, traveling and in creative design. 

Before the interview was over, I asked Jennifer one important question. What advice did she have for her fellow authors. "I encourage anyone that has a story to tell, whether it is a painful true story or just your expressions, to put it on paper. There is no story like a true story, because the writer can become one with their own words through life’s experiences."

From A Writer's POV wishes Jennifer much success in all that she does!

About the Book: Blessed : Therapy is the long awaited book of freelance Graphic Designer, Jennifer 'Je' Dixon Wilford. After loosing her father in January 25,2008, she lost her mother 10 months and 16 days later, November 9, 2008. Looking for direction and peace of mind, she began writing, which became her form of therapy. "Anything that you have and you want it to be a success, you must keep God first", says Je'. Journey with her, through her eyes, as she takes you on the most difficult path she has ever had to cross in life. You will laugh, you will cry and you will be blessed.

About the Author: New author Jennifer 'Je' Wilford introduces a heart felt true story, that will capture your attention and touch your heart from the very beginning. In an attempt for self searching, Jennifer surveyed several higher educational programs to assist her in identifying her skills. Jennifer currently resides in Dallas, Texas and is a member of the Friendship West Baptist Church under the leadership of Dr. Fredrick D. Haynes III.

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Comments(1):

  1. Je's Blessed Therapy...

    This was excellent work. I was able to relate to alot of what she experienced in regards to her loss and her feelings about her family. I cried most of the way through the book. I highly recommend it, especially if you've experienced similar events in your life. I look forward to her next book.

    Friday, December 04, 2009 C.