The first question asked when my book comes up in conversation is “Where did your story idea come from?” or “What inspired you to write The Spider and The Butterfly?”
I smile and reply that there are stories all around us and a story can be found in everything we do. I like my story, though. My story behind my story I mean. Let me share it with you if you will.
I was at a braai at a friend’s house in October 2012. We call a barbeque a “braai” in South Africa, except we think it’s nicer because it’s an open wood fire—using real wood and no gas! Nothing beats the fire and unique smell of a braai—one of my favourite things hands down! Anyway, one of the younger woman at the braai suddenly developed a severe migraine headache and went to lie down on the couch. I was really concerned for her and wondered if I could help in some way. I sat beside her and really felt for her seeing the pain she was in. In an effort to console her, I decided to tell her a story and hopefully take her mind off the pain. I just started talking, and let my imagination run. I don’t know exactly where the story line came from, but my intention was to help and I think God took over from there. The story seemed to calm her and brought a smile to her face as she slowly started feeling better.I watched the expression on her face change from one of pain, to distracted interest, and to fixed concentration as the adventure unfolded. Truth be told, I think her improved state was a combination of the story distracting her from the discomfort, and receiving some love and care in the moment. It was a marvelous time she and I shared, and neither of us could keep the smile off our respective faces afterwards. I was tremendously inspired by this amazing experience, and the motivation to actually putting pen to paper, so to speak, was born. I decided to bring the story to life in a short children’s novel and to hopefully inspire others to use their God-given imagination to spread His message.
I have since realised the story my friend heard was just the bare bones of the end story—it evolved considerably after I started writing. I was further moved to use my own three furry “children”as the main characters of the story. The more I wrote, the more ideas poured into my mind. I prayed for God’s help with the task every step of the way, as I trust in His love and guidance more than anything else in this world.
When I think back now of how the story came to life, it made me realise we should never underestimate the power of love, and how random acts of kindness can positively impact the lives of others. Not only does your light shine brightly when you take your mind off yourself, but blessings certainly chase you down in return. I took the time to care for a friend and look what transpired, a God-inspired story to help many children in need of spiritual guidance.
Look out for my next blog on what motivated me to write the story.
So so excited for this to come out!!! Cannot wait to buy it!!
Super excited for this to come out!!! Cannot wait for my copy!
Thank you so much Francesca! Please follow my blog posts as well. I will be keeping you up to date with news on when the book will be published. Thank you so much for you love and support!
Super proud of your Debs. Will be a great success ~ with GOD’s guidance. Lovies always to the most beautiful person inside and out. Take care xx
Thank you so much Juliet! Really appreciate your kind words and support! You are so special! Please also follow my weekly blogs (like and/or comment) as feedback and support is so valued. God bless you endlessly Juliet!
Wow!!!!
What an inspiration…
I am really looking forward to reading this book!!!
Thank you so much Chantel! Really appreciate your message! Every week I will post a new blog, sharing interesting stories and facts about the book, as well as news on publishing. So keep following and thank you for your support! God bless you honey xxx
Inspiring! Can’t wait for the book to come out!
Thank you so much my Sven! Your support and love means the world to me! God bless you endlessly!
Love this!!! I also really like your blog name and theme. It’s different and makes me want to read!
Thank you so much Melissa, I really appreciate your feedback. You made me smile today, thank you! I am sure you will find my next blog, Choosing Memorable Character names for The Spider and The Butterfly, interesting as well, so look out for it this week! Let me know what you think, I would love to hear your opinion. Take care and God bless you Melissa!
Can’t wait for this book!!!
When can we buy it???
So wonderful to hear your excitement for the book! Thank you Tracey! The book is not out yet, the manuscript was sent to publishers on 29 November 2018, and it takes up to 6 months to hear if publishers are interested. So it is still early days, but come rain or shine the book will be published as I am also looking at self publishing. In the meanwhile, please keep following my blogs and thank you so much for the support! God bless you endlessly Tracey!!!
Sounds fabulous
Thank you so much Barbara!
So excited to follow this blog and read the book hopefully soon.
Thank you so much Carmen! Appreciate your support so much!
It’s so awesome. Sounds like a winner
Thank you so much Terry! Your support is valued and so appreciated!
Wow Debbie, what a kind soul you are. Amazing that a book was inspired through your story.
Thank you so much Avia darling! I really appreciate your kind comments, sending you a beeeeg hug, hope you can feel the love. May 2019 be an amazing year for you and your family!
Thank you so much Terry! You were so instrumental in this journey and I can’t thank you enough. Your beautiful daughters will each get their own signed copies for sure! God bless you endlessly my friend!
Hi Anthea, thank you so much! Makes my heart smile to know the stories left you feeling inspired! God bless you endlessly!
Bless you! Your extraordinary kindness is such in inspiration! Representing our Father and shining His love to those around you! So special!
Thank you so much Charlene! Edgard is the true hero, he never gave up despite all the odds against him. Gods nature is extraordinary kindness, the more I spend time with God, the greater kindness I have to give. God bless you endlessly!
We cant wait to read your book Debs! You are such an inspiration to so many people. Keep shining His light special soul. May God Bless you always xx
Thank you so much Sherene! I really appreciate your message and I cant wait for read to read it too! I will be sending Juan and Inge a singed copy from Cape Town to Canada!!! God bless and protect you and your family for eternity!!! Love you!