The best part about Author Talks seems to be that you get such great questions from those who attend. Last Friday night we did a combo of Talking and Wine Tasting at Garland Wines Book Event–and a lot of thoughtful questions did come up.
One of the topics that arose was worrying about what family members will say if you speak your truth. One response was, “But if you do not own your reality, then you cannot do anything to work with it or change it. You have to be able to talk about things. But you cannot talk if you do not own.”
Another friend shared that she had grown up in an Irish family like me and they did not discuss difficult subjects. She wondered if it was just an “Irish” thing or an “immigrant” thing or if other cultures thought the same way. A great discussion ensued. Clearly, it is not just the Irish who are challenged with difficult subjects.
Someone also shared that she had moved away from her native country and loved that it allowed her to see how another culture behaved. It gave her the ability to make her own choices about how she wanted to live her life and not just be constrained by one way of thinking.
Another touching observation was when two people who had read my book knew that even though my parents and I never discussed my chronic pain or compromised hips, they lovingly did what they could by buying me a bike and skates that allowed me to travel as fast as my friends.
In between the thoughtful discussions and catching up with friends, the two hours flew by. I look forward to more opportunities to talk with others about subjects/topics that Silent Courage brings to mind. Thanks to everyone who shared.
I know not everyone can attend the book events, so if you have read my book, let me know what you think. I am always fascinated by what strikes a chord with different people about my story. If you really like the book, I kindly ask you to consider writing an Amazon review of Silent Courage. It’s such a compliment and it helps me get the word out. Thank you again for sharing my book with friends and family. Maybe someday soon I can convince you to share your story.
If you’ve been thinking about sharing or writing your story, I’m leading two workshops at Equilibrium (47 S. Polk St.) in Chicago this summer. Equilibrium is a wonderful education center located in downtown Chicago’s Dearborn Station. I’d love to see you at one (or both) of the events:
- “Whole Person Healing” on July 21. 6-8 p.m.
- “Mining Your Soul Story” on August 16. 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
For full details and to sign up, visit the Equilibrium website or call them at (312) 786-1882.
Photo Credit: Slava Bowman
Mary Byrne Eigel 