In January we reviewed the newly released e-book Forgiveness Never by Charlene Gutzmore in which she adeptly covers the issue of un-forgiveness and choosing to forgive. Now we have the wonderful opportunity to link with the author in an interview. Here’s what she had to say:
1. Are you a first time author?
This is my first time writing a book and self-publishing it. However I have written a number of articles for church magazines and I have authored a couple of blogs. I also journal quite a bit and have over 20 journals
2. What inspired you to choose the concept of forgiveness as your subject matter to write about?
The inspiration came from my own struggles with forgiveness. Like every woman, I have had friends who have hurt me and told lies about me. I struggled with holding grudges and planning to make my "friends" pay for what they have done to me. Through all this I realized I was not happy and realized it stemmed from the un-forgiveness I had in my heart. The book the Gift of Forgiveness by Charles Stanley showed me what my problem was and I wrote all the friends I felt hurt me and told them I had forgiven them. I also asked them to forgive me for holding a grudge against them.
I am not exempt from causing pain to others. I am fortunate to have been offered the gift of forgiveness and I know how it feels when someone no longer holds what you did to them against you. It is a good feeling, a burden lifted.
3. Tell me a little about Forgiveness Never.
Forgiveness Never is about the difficulties and struggles we go through on our journey toward forgiveness. A journey I believe we all must take if we are to be truly happy and fulfilled. When I was writing this book I had women in mind because I have a heart for the struggles we women go through. We have a heart and we want to forgive and do the right thing but at times when we think about the pain and hurt we have suffered, more times than none, we choose un-forgiveness. Forgiveness Never will help us realize that choosing to forgive, no matter how difficult and painful, is the right decision in all cases because it ends up freeing you, the forgiver, and who doesn't want to be free?
4. What would you like to accomplish with Forgiveness Never?
I would like Forgiveness Never to be a handbook for all to use on their journey toward forgiveness. I would like churches, counselors, schools, reading groups and especially women to use it to better their lives as well as others
5. Is this the beginning of a self-empowerment series for adults?
Yes, I am working toward other self-empowerment topics that I believe make us whole persons and fulfilled human beings.
6. What's your best advice to first time authors?
My advice to first time authors is never ever give up on your dream to publish your own book and don't listen to the negativity around you. It will only defeat you and prevent you from becoming the person God wants you to become. Surround yourself with people who will encourage you and believe in you and tell you the truth in a positive way.
Research your topic and be an expert in it. Know what you are writing about. It will make it more real and easier to write if you have some experience in topic about which you are writing.
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