I’m Rising looks like a great book of
inspirational poetry. How does it differ
from your other poetry book When Love Rises?
Thank you! While both books, in fact, offer an element of
inspiration When Love Rises takes you on a journey through the different phases
of romantic love. From that initial spark to discovering your soulmate,
unbearable heartbreak, healing, feeling whole on your own and then finding the
courage to try love again, then ending in an inspirational and upbeat tone.
I'm Rising is a collection of empowering messages about what
is often a journey to discover self-love and the power we have always had
within to survive and thrive. It was
written to ignite a spark to remind us that facing our fears and pain helps us
evolve. With messages applicable to both
women and men, the prose inspires us all to grow and rise to our fullest
potential.
How did you come up with the poems in I’m Rising?
Over the past several years, many of the ideas and concepts
came about as I wrote in my journal or used writing prompts. However, most of
them came to me as I searched for messages to support my Rising theme for this
self-love collection.
What will readers get out of your book?
I hope they will allow themselves to embrace their own fears
and challenges and then travel with me through an evolution of growth. Ultimately, I want people to come away,
feeling inspired to own their power.
What inspired you when writing I’m Rising?
The realization of sharing my experiences and metamorphosis
to a stronger and more resilient woman could help someone else drove me to
honor my truth.
When did you decide to become a writer?
I’m not `sure that it was as much a decision, as it was a
natural acceptance that I was a writer. I’ve written poetry and short stories
for as long as I can remember. Deciding that I wanted to publish my work and
become an author occurred as a young adult shortly out of architecture school.
When writing, I’m Rising, did anything stand out
as particularly challenging?
Writing the pieces in the Challenges Chapter required truly
ripping off the scars and bearing my soul. There were literally moments when painful
memories or thoughts would come out of nowhere and crowd my mind. Writing it
out was a therapeutic way to process the pent up frustrations and hurt. It was
difficult, but worth the realization that acknowledging my feelings resulted in
finding my voice and strength.
What do you like to do when not writing?
I love the arts, both visual and performing, so checking out
shows, and small art collections are always fun to do with family and
friends. To wind down and re-energize I
like to curl up with a great read or pull out my acrylics and watercolors for a
little painting. I also enjoy sketching, taking photos and taking on creative
do it yourself projects. Given I no
longer design buildings, these activities allow me to exercise my creative.
Where can readers find out more about your work?
Readers can learn more from my website, www.michellestradford.com. To stay updated on
my next book release, read samples of work in progress, etc., please connect
with me as follows:
Instagram @michellestradfordauthor
They can also find both of my books on Amazon, Barnes &
Noble, Google Books, Indiebound, and other major book retailers.