I am always inspired by people who do the thing they love to do and then sometimes you meet a person that takes this to another level. That’s my friend, Cassandra, because even though she has a disability, she does not allow it to stop her from doing what she’s called to do. I am excited to shine the spotlight on her today!
Tell us about yourself and what you do.
I am a visually impaired inspirational author and I write to find a way to live with my health challenges & disability.
How does your work create an impact in the world?
I share the words that lift my spirits and help me find a way to make it through each day. In addition to publishing self-empowering inspirational books, with the help of family and friends, I share the words on social media to help others live happier and emotionally healthier lives.
Was there a turning point in your life that made you seek out inspiration and self-growth learning opportunities?
Yes, I have always written but never leaned toward it as a genre for publishing. I always thought I would publish novels or educational information. I fell into writing inspirational words as a result of my injury and resulting anxiety. I needed to find a reason to wake up and went to live through the pain. Writing helped me find the steps necessary to bring clarity to my mind, and hope to my life.
Where do you get your inspiration from?
I grew up reading Maya Angelou, Cesar Chavez and being socially aware of life challenges. My heart has always been big and I have always wanted to find a way to help our society on a larger scale. With the advent of the internet, voice to text software and my disability, I can now help others, while I help myself. Sometimes you can be happier by taking your mind off your own issues and focusing on someone else.
What is your favorite source of inspiration?
The Bible because it shows how we can live each day in peace. It helps me find solace, joy, strength and the energy to keep hoping that my health, life, and pain will get better.
What was or is the biggest struggle you’ve faced embracing who you are?
Realizing that wanting to do something doesn’t mean that you can. I struggle daily with my eyes and often I am stifled by pain. Losing my health was a challenge that I did not see coming.
How do you stay inspired to keep going on your journey?
I listen to my heart, lean on my iPad and listen to my babies and the inspirational thoughts I have written. Other times I play gospel music, pray & listen to audiobooks. The one thing that I love almost as much
What emotional challenges have you faced?
Realizing that I am not who or how I thought I would be at this point in my life.
What would be your top tips for:
- Finding inspiration -find ways to quite your mind, relax and listen to the wind and the rain. Hear the peace in their movement and find the quiet in your storm. Look in the eyes of your loved ones and find the best within you to help make their days be better. When you look outside of yourself and your troubles, you can find joy through the pain,
- Keeping inspired – rely on your faith and trust in the promises of God.
- Raising your spirit – sing your favorite songs, pray, read your bible, and meditate.
- Staying positive – smile every morning, look for ways to create something, and look past your challenges,
- Anything else you have found invaluable – find at least 3 inspirational thoughts each day and focus on positivity.
What advice would you like to give someone when it comes to a) life and/or b) business.
Find ways to do, create and be true to your life’s calling. There you will find what matter most.
Remembering your hardest struggle what was the lesson? What is your advice?
Finding a way to survive & keep my sanity through the eye pain was the biggest challenge I have ever faced. I learned how strong the human spirit is and that we can find a way to survive anything as long as we have faith. My advice is to find a way to stay connected to God. Prayer, write, read and meditate through the storms of life.
If you are in business or write a blog for yourself what made you take the leap?
A friend suggested I blog, it’s been a great challenge and a great learning experience.
How do you keep motivated through difficult times?
By praying and talking to God. I find that I can face life better knowing that He promises relief and blessings.
