Cat had an amazing week meeting new author friends and was invited to be a guest on an awesome podcast that all my “ladies” need to know about! Please meet Candace Gish. Candace is the founder of “Divas That Care Network.” She is also the host of the podcast of the same name and has several women who host shows on Divas. Candace is a best-selling author too.
I really enjoyed being interviewed on her podcast this past week, as you will hear just how much fun we had doing so as she wanted me to share some of what I do here through “Cat Lyon’s Reading Den & Lyon Literary Services” and how I enjoy helping other authors learn how to market their books and branding.
Let’s learn a little more about Candace and all she does with the Divas! But first? Here is the link to the episode we did, and I hope you will take some time to listen. I even shared some of my marketing tips with all her listeners!
About Candace ~ Join Diva Host Candace Gish as she interviews a variety of committed women weekly, who are working to make the world a better place!
Candace is an independent businesswoman who understands the challenges women face in business, including how to be successful. She also understands the importance of having mentors and a strong support network. Her four daughters and wonderful husband inspire her to work for a better world. She loves connecting with women who have big dreams and the commitment to make a difference. She believes in the power of women when they come together to effect change, which is what the Divas That Care movement is all about.
Hello! My name is Candace Gish, Iām a motivator and empowering change agent who understands the challenges women face while finding success in their everyday lives and businesses. I am an advocate for mentorship and strong, supportive networks. My four daughters and wonderful husband have inspired me to create a better world, thus the Divas That Care Network was born. I enjoy connecting with goal-oriented women and a commitment to make a difference. I believe in the power of women converging to implement change and have ensured that the purpose of the Divas That Care movement quantifies just that.
I created the Divas That Care Network because I am the mother of four beautiful girls who look to me to model the hope and countless opportunities that lie in their futures. I recognize and salute the power that a true DIVA holds. A strong, informed, and empowered woman is a force to be reckoned with and admired. She will not back down or accept no for an answer. She works hard and pays her dues on her path to success, but not without often being overlooked and discounted by others, due to her self-assuredness. She is a lover, a giver, loyal, and dedicated, but her passion is often mistaken for overconfidence.
The Gish Family!
Why I Keep The Divas Going
Every day I get more and more inspired by the guests who have been on my show, they talk about their lives, dreams, fears, motivation, ways to help themselves or others, things that can be hard to talk about, and so much more. How can you not get inspired when listening to these amazing women. My continued desire to provide a proper example for my girls as other women inspires me to keep moving forward and NEVER give up.
Welcome Readers and Friends to a Special Guest Spotlight, Cover Reveal, and News for Award-winning author Diane Olsen.
CAT is very excited to announce and share some literary award news for my friend and fellow author Diane Olsen! Diane has just been awarded her second Bronze Medal, given by the Illumination Book Awards by Jenkins Group, Inc.
This is her second win but her first win for her ‘Rising Wind book series‘ with book three titled “The Weeping God and The Book of Hope.” I am just thrilled for Diane. So we are celebrating with a Sneak Peek Cover Reveal for Book Four of the Rising Wind series! But before I do? Here is more about Diane’s award-win in the category of Mystery/Thriller…
THANK YOU TO ALL THE EXCELLENT AUTHORS WHO ENTERED THEIR INSPIRING BOOKS IN THE 2022 AWARDS.
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Now, before Cat gets to the Cover Reveal, I want to share the amazing Reader’s Favorite 5-Star Awarded Book Review Diane received from them. The reviewer did a fantastic review that actually sums up the Rising Wind Book Series from reading book one, The Thunder Beings, then book two, Ice and Bone, and book three that she has just won the Bronze Medal titled The Weeping God and The Book of Hope.
Diane’s books to this series can be read as stand-alone’s, or for a richer reading experience, you can read them in consecutive order. Either way, readers are going to love reading this series. Even though the series is fictional, Diane adds so many real facts and real information from her research to each book. And many different topics and elements like comparisons of world religions, how all humanity is connected, the hope of mankind, elements of archeology and paleontology, extinct beings and animals, and so much more! Here is how the Reviewer Summed up Rising Wind…
Books two and three of Rising Wind
Book Review By Reader’s Favorite of Rising Wind and Book Three:
The Weeping God and the Book of Hope, part three in the Rising Wind series, is actually a prequel to the first two books, so it’s not necessary to have read those first.
The lead characters, Sage Dalton and L.W. are the main character’s parents in the other Rising Wind books. Although the characters are different and it is set in an earlier time period, the tone of the book is very similar. This time they discover an ancient text in a Mexican desert tomb that leads Sage, L.W., and a group of fellow explorers to Tibet, where they find themselves in the middle of a war. Even with danger at every turn, they still manage to discover secret caves that lead them toward an elusive yet powerful Book of Hope.
First and foremost, her books have a superb cast of characters that readers can easily relate to. They care about each other, work together to achieve a common goal, laugh together, and cry together. Second, her stories revolve around rare ancient discoveries found all around the world. Much like the great Indiana Jones films, each new discovery comes with an element of danger.
The third common theme is an embracing of all world religions. Religion is somehow intertwined with each rare find that the characters make. I appreciate the way Ms. Olsen always characterizes the religious elements in her stories in a positive light, as the hope of mankind rather than the way most works of fiction portray religion in a negative sense as mankindās biggest problem. This is a fun read filled with colorful characters and lots of action. I recommend it for fans of character-driven adventure who like to learn about science, ancient civilizations, and world religions along the way. ~Scott Cahan for Readersā Favorite
Award-Winning Author Ms. Diane Olsen
Diane Olsen’s New Cover Reveal For Book Four Coming Very Soon For Release and will be titled Rising Wind: Book 4, Like Feathers Of A Wing”… Book Description (may change a little before release).
About This Soon To Release Book Four:
Experience the spiritual, social, and cultural evolution of humanity in the fourth book in the Rising Wind series by Diane Olsen. She demonstrates through extensive research that humanity is interconnected. A treasure to celebrate, no matter what culture or faith we represent. We are as oneā¦ ‘Like Feathers of a Wing.’
Embarking on what appears to be an impossible project, the couple endeavors to struggle forward on their mission to help build shelters for the homeless and capture sustainable water in the desert. Be mesmerized by the wide array of strange and dangerous creatures that cross Gideon and Secoraās path. Will death take one or all their treasured friends? Will anyone travel this journey unscathed?
Are you ready for another amazing mystery thrill ride through fiction and history, READERS?
Stop by often, as Cat will announce soon when this one is released!
Readersā Favorite is one of the largest book review and award contest sites on the Internet. They have earned the respect of renowned publishers like Random House, Simon & Schuster, and Harper Collins. They have received the āBest Websites for Authorsā and āHonoring Excellenceā awards from the Association of Independent Authors.
Larry Martin is not a good person. He is lazy. He treats women badly. He thinks the world owes him everything that he wants but hasnāt earned. Unfortunately, Larry was also raised by an abusive father with right-wing beliefs which he adopted as his own. What more can one expect from a person raised without love?
Then Larry loses his job as a journalist and eventually loses his home as well. Homeless, forced to live day by day, begging and often stealing, Larry decides to shed his old self and change. He decides to become a better person. In The Other Shoes of Larry Martin, Book One: Revelation of Lies, Pavane Ravel brings us a story of transformation, internal growth, and connections with people on personal levels, showing us that change is possible when we start with ourselves.
Pavane Ravel has a writing style that is easy to fall into. It is comfortable and has a good flow. There is definite good character building. I intensely disliked the main character at the beginning of the book. As this book is based on profound character growth, the author did a remarkable job of slowly easing the reader along on the journey. I found the attention to detail with the construction of the various homesteads quite interesting.
The Other Shoes of Larry Martin is ideal for readers who enjoy extraordinary character changes, fighting for survival, and climbing to the top to make a change for the better. This book can also be recommended to those readers who want to know themselves on a deeper level. I loved how the story itself became the story of the book. Highly recommend it!”
Author Pavane Ravel
About The Author
Pavane Ravel is the author and writer of her introductory novel series of “The Other Shoes of Larry Martin.” Book one, “Revelation of Lies,” was released Oct. 2021 and is available for purchase on her official website, Amazon, B&N, online, and many online bookstores.
Ravel has always wanted to be a full-time writer and finally has reached the point in life where that dream is a reality. Pavane traveled extensively over the years and has seen nearly the entire United States, much of Canada and Europe, along with some of Central America. Pavane also studied both political science and journalism in universities both stateside and Europe.
Pavane is now happily married with children; she enjoys discussing economics after working as a commodities broker. Pavane resides in NYC and spends time concentrating on both family and her writing.
This book was an important story to tell for Pavane, as Larry Martin is such a complex and fascinating character. Pavane enjoys humor and loves to engage and connect with readers on social media.
Usually, I donāt start my guest spotlights of an author by sharing my book review and other reviews already on Amazon first.
This is not an ordinary special guest spotlight with Randy being a first-time best-selling Amazon Author; Iām kind of excited to get to the good stuff first. Please, meet Randy Grimes, an awesome friend, and Iāll share all about him and his amazing wife with you after the reviews. Since he and his wife are attending their 13th Super Bowl in Calf., I thought I would have him as my Special Guest Author to share his fantastic new book!
Randy Grimes is a former professional football player who played his whole NFL career for the Tampa Bay Bucs. He was drafted right out of college, playing for Baylor University. Just a little boy from Tyler, Texas, who had big dreams of just playing the game and sport of football. But, he never knew addiction was lying in wait years later.
That is a smidge of what you learn while reading his new memoir titled āOff Center: A Memoir of Addiction, Recovery, and Redemption in Professional Football.ā It has been a long journey for Randy to get this exceptional book written and to the finish line to release.
And, āhow sweet it isā that it was released right before the Super Bowl ~ 2022!
Of course, Randy and Lydia have been busy in California with all the Super Bowl festivities and soaking in the sun while Randy does his NFL duties (lol), like Radio Row at the Super Bowl this past week. Not only to promote and share his new memoir but share a message of HOPE. Also, sharing what he and Lydia and other former pro athletes do through their organization of https://proathletesinrecovery.org/our-story/ that I highly suggest everyone should take a visit!
Off-Center by Author Randy Grimes is a former NFL Pro who played with the Tampa Bay Bucs. Unfortunately, his memoir is not your average read. Randyās story, testimony, and intervention of another are fine examples of how anyone can be ātouchedā by addiction, be it a regular person or even as a sports pro.
With big dreams of playing football, a little boy from Tyler, Texas, had no idea that addiction had been lying in wait for years. That is the cunningness of any addiction. Randyās memoir also shows how this can happen without going rogue with ego or status or being a āParty Guy.ā If there is anything he knows best, Texas is known for, āThe Love For Family, Faith, Church on Sunday, and FOOTBALL!
While he shares his life, past pro career, while sharing an intervention and part of the advocacy work is some of what you find between the pages of this exceptional book. With āNo Shame,ā the author shares the real and raw of his downfall, how he crawled on his hands and knees into a treatment center, and another example of how many athletes end up having addiction problems later in their career afterward.
It seems that when you play pro sports and have the best doctors and sports medicine professionals helping you stay in the game, and itās over? All the author wanted to do was get rid of the pain from all the injuries he had. So sad he had no guidance after he left pro football.
Then the true miracle of faith begins to work within his life after losing just about everything he worked so hard for and to provide for his family, as he went from being lost, addicted, and spiritually broken to a man who stands tall today within redemption! And that is only the tip of the iceberg youāll read within this fantastic memoir.
I have read many memoirs from other sports pros, and this one is not your standard braggy sports stats and facts. Everyone should read this book and learn how anyone can change and turn their lives around after addiction. Randy and Lydia help many athletes gain life from addiction while healing the whole family through several foundations.
I highly suggest parents read this memoir/book, and I enjoy reading a great book that can teach you something while cheering (for Randy) simultaneously! Itās what makes this book a must-read.
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Now, this Cat has been in the business of book promoting and marketing for an extended time. That means Iāve read many memoirs from everyday folks to many high-profile people like celebrities, sports pros, and others.
I can honestly tell you there is a little something within the pages of this book for anyone who enjoys reading.
So with that said, here is more about Randyās book and a few more reviews for āOff Centerā that share āThe Whyā you need to read this fantastic memoir. Since the book was released on Amazon Books and Amazon Kindle a few days ago, Randyās biography has HIT #1 in over 6 different categories. Now that is priceless and a darn good read!
ABOUT THE NEW MEMOIR of RANDY GRIMES
Randy Grimes quickly learned one important truthĀ as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers top draft pick: play through pain or get cut.
This is just part of being a pro athlete, he told himself.
Growing up in Tyler, Texas, Grimesās life was very much on center. A childhood spent in church on Sundays and on the gridiron all week turned into a football scholarship to Baylor, marriage to his college sweetheart, and a coveted NFL roster spot.
When the Bucsā starting center began piling up brutal hits, he determined to do anything to stay in the game. If the pills prescribed by the team doctors could help, Grimes would take them.
āAll in a dayās work,ā he told himself.
Even before Grimes left the NFL, his life began slipping off center. Eventually, he lost almost everything he owned, the respect of his children, and very nearly his life, before tumbling out of the car and crawling on hands and knees into a treatment centerāliterallyāinto a life-changing miracle.
Off Center is Randy Grimesās riveting story of having it all, playing the sport he loved, losing almost everything, and ultimately finding redemption and hope. Witness the addiction trap that binds millions and claims thousands of lives each yearāand the steps Grimes took to reclaim his life and guide others.
Today Grimes and his wife, Lydia, stage drug and alcohol interventions for professional athletes, celebrities, business leaders, and everyday Americans to find recovery from addiction.
Recovery has become his playbook. His treatment center colleagues are his team. And those with addiction are his community.
Above all, Randy & Lydia Grimes want people to know: āEven when the world seems to be yours, there is room to fall. And even when that world seems to slip away, there is hope.
A Few More Book Reviews For “Off Center.”
“I saw something very special in Randy Grimes while recruiting him from high school to Baylor University. I saw a leader, a warrior, someone who would battle through any obstacle to reach his goals. The pages of this book just reaffirm what I already knew. Nothing, not even addiction, could ever keep Randy Grimes down. A great comeback story!” āGrant Teaff; head coach, Baylor University 1972-1992; executive director, American Football Coaches Association; College Football Hall of Fame
“I’ve seen athletes who wanted to be great but were unwilling to do the necessary hard work over the years. Recovery is similar. Some want to be soberābut are unwilling to do what it takes. Not only did Randy do the work, but his story is the perfect example of the fruits of recovery. This book is one of those fruits!” ā”Sudden” Sam McDowell; MLB pitcher, Cleveland Indians 1961-1975; six times MLB All-Star; author,Ā The Saga of Sudden Sam
“I played during the same time as Randy and shared his conference and in fact, faced his team twice a year. I know firsthand the pressures he faced to stay on the field. I also know the play-at-all-costs mentality that existed then. Randy accurately describes the dark side of the NFL, and what many were and still are willing to do to be the best. Great job, my NFL brother!” āEric Hipple; NFL QB, Detroit Lions 1980-1989; mental health advocate; author,Ā Real Men Do Cry
I sure hope all my readers, friends, and visitors have enjoyed reading thisĀ Special Super Bowl Guest Author SpotlightĀ all about my friend and call Randy a fellow author too!Ā
The image above is the most memorable day I hold dear as my hubby, “Big Tom,” and I finally met Randy and Lydia’s beautiful wife.Ā
They were gracious to come and speak for an event I pulled together for a friend at the Arizona State Capital to raise awareness of all addictions to share our recoveries, and it was the BEST DAY EVER! (Lol).
Randy and I have supported one another’s recovery for almost four years. Randy and Lydia have been amazing friends and kind mentors to Tom and me. We have advocated and have networked together several times. So when I call him while I am helping someone in need of recovery or intervention advice, he is always the first to answer my call…
So we are blessed to call them both our friends. ~Cat
It is not every day you can be excited about having a few extraordinary friends who are Zen Masters of our current time. I am blessed to say I do! One update about Clifford is he was newly awarded the title of “Clifford Stevens (Zen Master Kiichi Gong),” as he studied Qi Gong, Zen, and meditation under Master Genro Xuan Lou Laoshi for many years before being certified as a Zen teacher in 2016, and now, as Zen Master in late 2021. We worked together when their book was first released in late 2018, and as many of my visitors know, I always say a book is a new release to any reader who has not yet read it.
This is purely true for their best-selling book titled Find The Seeker!: The pathless path to fulfillment and happiness… Many of my visitors also know that I live my life maintaining recovery. I can truly say their book helped me learn to make some necessary corrections within my path that I still use and follow today, and the practices helped me build my self-worth and in being comfortable with who I am in my own skin.
If you go read some of the book reviews on Amazon and Goodreads about “Seeker,” they mesh together a little like this: “Finding the Seeker, the Pathless Path to Fulfillment and Happiness” is a moving and refreshing book that makes the reader look forward to reading it each day and page by page.
The simplicity of reading this book with its simple and understandable language, the meanings will come to form like lightning and rain, followed by sprinkles of magic dust. It is a true pathless path to well-being, a happier life, and teaches how to cultivate the seeds within us to get there.” That is what you gain from reading ‘Find the Seeker and so much more.”
They have not only received and awarded a five-star book review given by Reader’s Favorite but it is also receiving high praise by many “Enlightened Ones and Zen Teachers”…
Here is more about this amazing read and some of the accolades it is garnishing too!
Reader’s Favorite Book Review – 5-stars!
Reviewed byĀ Sefina HawkeĀ for Readers’ Favorite
Find the Seeker! (The Pathless Path to Fulfillment and Happiness) written by Xuan Lou Genro and Clifford Stevens, is an inspirational non-fiction book on finding true happiness and fulfillment. The book would appeal most to a mixed audience of adults and young adults of any beliefs who wish to find their true nature and understand their spiritual needs. This book guides the reader in learning about the spiritual dimensions that all people share to provide guidance on existential questions, the true nature of oneself, and how to live a fulfilling life.
Find the Seeker! (The Pathless Path to Fulfillment and Happiness) by Xuan Lou Genro and Clifford Stevens is a well-written book that is truly unique. I enjoyed how the book was inspirational and informative in that it taught me not just about myself but also about Eastern religion and Zen. I found myself truly enjoying this book because it felt as if the authors were trying to teach me and help me improve myself as a person, both in mind and spirit.
The fact that the book was in an understandable plain English that avoided jargon greatly appealed to me because I did not have to be an expert or constantly look in a dictionary to understand what was written. Instead, I understood the concepts from the very beginning of the book. Overall, I am glad that I took the time to read this book, as it has changed the way I view myself, and it has taught me what I need to work on to achieve a more fulfilling life!
About The Authors and Zen Masters
Co-Author & Zen Master Cliff Stevens
Clifford Stevens (Zen Master Kiichi Gong) studied Qi Gong, Zen, and meditation under Genro for many years before being certified as a Zen teacher in 2016 and as Zen Master in late 2021.
Born in the United States, Stevensās career included teaching, journalism, PR manager, and a translator. He studied Qi Gong, Zen, and meditation with Genro Xuan Lou and Laoshi.
The author shares his meditation-imparted experiences, and the Dharma transmission from Genro qualified me to be named a teacher of Zen. He enjoyed writing this understandable, easy reading guide along with Master Genro for those wanting to learn more and practice true Buddhism and the benefits that come with the teachings in Find The Seeker!
Gert Beirer, who was born in Austria in 1945, studied Zen, meditation, Kung-Fu, Qi Gong, and acupuncture in Asia. He was given the name Genro (āOrigin of Joyā) Xuan Lou, Laoshi (Laoshi = āSpiritual Masterā) by Zen Master Tetsuo Kiichi Nagaya Roshi. Genro Xuan Lou, Laoshi was named Zen (Chan) Master by the Abbot and Grand Master Kun Kong at the Lingyin Temple (Shakyamuni Buddhism) in Hangzhou, with whom he studied 11 years, by Abbot and Zen Master Shi Chan Ming in Wuhan, Province Hubei, China, and was also named Shifu or āSpiritual Teacherā in 2009 by Shi Xue Feng, Abbot of the Ding Shan Temple in Germany.
Genro Laoshi has lectured at universities, appeared on TV, held seminars on a variety of spiritual and self-help topics, taught Qi Gong courses, and published articles and books on meditation. Both authors reside in Austria.
Find the Seeker! with the subtitle “The pathless path to fulfillment and happiness”, based on the tried and tested wisdom of a living Master and enlightened ones throughout the ages, accompanies us on a life-changing inner pilgrimage.
Find the Seeker! is a powerful, straight-talking wake-up call to people of all faiths and confessions, holding up a mirror to our worldly existence, suffering, and the intricate workings of the ego. Immensely uplifting and rewarding, the book serves as a traveling companion and guide, enticing readers with a vision of what we really are -which can only be directly experienced – by helping us unfold our true nature and reboot our spiritual search so that we can abide in the one Self. In this way, seekers become finders, and we can enjoy the bliss and lightness of Being that are inherently ours.
Find the Seeker! has garnered extensive praise from spiritual teachers:
“A unique, extraordinary and extremely valuable work.” – Ihaleakala Lew Pen “Disarming and worth experiencing.” -John Tarrant “Refreshing as a clear stream.” -Robert Meikyo Rosenbaum “The book…touches your heart.” -Hue Feng
āFind the SeekerĀ is fresh as spring grass and refreshing as a clear stream. From the very start, the teachings in this book refuse to be confined to a spiritual checklistĀ or manual of meditative techniques. Instead, theĀ authors again, and againĀ challenge readers to return to the vibrant truth of original nature.
Going beyond optimistic self-help andĀ nihilistic despair,Ā Genro Xuan LouĀ andĀ Clifford StevensĀ remind us of how wonderful it is to let go of grasping and taste the vividness ofĀ direct experience.āĀ āĀ RobertĀ Meikyo Rosenbaum,Ā neuropsychologistĀ and psychotherapist, ZenĀ and Qi Gong teacher, author ofĀ Walking the Way: 81 Zen Encounters with the Tao Te Ching, andĀ Zen and the Heart of Psychotherapy.
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Q&A With Zen Master/Author Clifford Stevens
How did this project begin?Ā Zen Master Genro Xuan Lou, Laoshi self-published a book in German many years ago and wanted to share his āinsightsā with a larger audience. He asked me, his pupil whom he later named to serve as a Zen and meditation teacher, to collaborate with him to do a revised, expanded, and updated edition for the English-speaking world.
Tell us some more about your book.Ā A living Master and I, his pupil, have teamed up to offer readers a ānewā book based on the age-old pathless path.Ā Find the Seeker!Ā accompanies people on a life-changing inner pilgrimage. It is a traveling companion and guide and a powerful, straight-talking wake-up call holding up a mirror to our worldly existence. It entices readers with a vision of what we really are ā which can only be directly experienced ā by helping us unfold our true nature. In turn, we can abide in the one Self. In this way, seekers become finders. This enables us to enjoy the bliss and lightness of Being that are inherently ours.
Who will this book appeal to?Ā Find the Seeker!Ā focuses on the spiritual dimension all of us share. For this reason, the guide is for all readers who wish to lead more fulfilling lives, get answers to key existential questions, and unfold their true nature. More specifically, it targets people interested in the categories of mind-body-spirit, self-help, personal growth, and happiness as well as Eastern religion and Zen. It is for people of all faiths and confessions, whether beginners or longstanding seekers.
Why is this book relevant today?Ā The book is relevant because it addresses the same obstacles faced by people since time immemorial. Just because we are in the year 2018 does not mean that the āspiritualā challenges are different.
Moreover, we are living in a day and age in which people are becoming increasingly skeptical and estranged from what they really are. From a spiritual perspective, many of us are living dysfunctional lives. We often transform the path into being as we really are i.e. our true, Absolute Self into an overly complicated, burdensome task.
Many books and teachings reinforce the fallacy that there are countless āstepsā and āgoalsā to attain before accomplishing this, and so much we have to ālearnā before we can āreachā our goal. Instead, we already ARE what we seek. Abidingā in the Self comprises our real mojo. It is ultimately more breathtaking, rewarding, and joyful than any other pastime, activity, work, or form of recreation on Earth. This is a contrast to our fast-paced, fun-loving, self-staging, technology-oriented society. It is just as relevant today as in the past to āknow yourself.ā
Author/Zen Master Geno Xuan Lou, Laoshi
What makes this book unique?Ā First, it is not a new discovery, concoction, or miracle cure. It is based on first-hand experience as well as the tried and tested wisdom of a modern-day Master and enlightened ones throughout the ages.
The strength of the book is its focus on the spiritual dimension underlying Existence which all people share. It also picks people up where they are in a compassionate and understandable manner. Second, the book is not a wishy-washy quick fix or feel-good esoteric porridge pandering to those who want a spiritual baby rattle. Instead, it is a book of tough love, asking people to forego their thinking, logic, emotions, ego processes, and past experiences.
The book is in stark contrast to the majority of books and teachings of Buddhism, most only indulge in superficial descriptions or sayings and provide seemingly āpreciseā instructions, lists of goals, or steps to take. Third, the book does not slowly work its way to a conclusion but continually repeats key messages to hammer away at our conventional beliefs.
We act as facilitators, hoping the book will fall on fertile ground. Speaking with authority and a sense of urgency, we strive to transform the complicated path of so many seekers into the realization that we already are what we are looking for. Finally, Find the Seeker! aims to help people free themselves from their dependency on intermediaries, gurus, and religious institutions, or from the self-delusion of being less than they really are.
What was the hardest part of writing this book?Ā At the very beginning of his famous classic Tao Te Ching, Lao Tzu stated that the Tao that can be expressed in words is not the eternally unchanging Tao. It is a challenge to attempt to put in words that which is nameless and cannot be described. Moreover, it is crucial to ensure that one remains faithful to what one IS and not adapt the book to please the audience.
What was your favorite chapter (or part) to write and why?Ā There is no āfavoriteā chapter or part of the book because all the chapters come together to make a holistic whole. Nevertheless, it was gratifying after several chapters were done to see the book taking shape. This is a book, which is designed to unfold its impact and slowly work on readers.
In contrast to a novel read in a few sittings, a good spiritual book is like a symphony that one can repeatedly listen to. The challenge is for our readers to immerse themselves in it in the here-now, and allow each page to turn into a revelation or an awakening. By doing such, they will enable the book to point to the Isness and Suchness ā even if they do not ācomprehendā everything right away.
What were your goals and intentions in this book, and how well do you feel you achieved them?Ā To humbly attempt to express what cannot be expressed in words, to tell things straight but to make it all understandable and compassionately pick people up where they are. Perhaps the book will serve as an inspiration to help readers reboot their spiritual search and renew their lives. However, the book should not be overestimated.
This book (and any other) is only capable of giving readers a hint of what awaits them. We tell readers not to simply take our word for it. The work of finding the truth will have to be ādoneā by them. And this work wonāt be āintellectualā in nature, but can only be directly experienced ā by turning within. A number of spiritual teachers highly praised the book before its publication. Now we will see how readers react to it.
There is much more to this in-depth Q&A and interview with the author and I highly suggest an inspiring visit to their official website to read the rest here>>> https://www.findtheseeker.com/meet-clifford/ as you will learn so much more about both authors. Please visit and connect with Master Clifford Stevens on Social Media… āFind The Seeker!: The pathless path to fulfillment and happinessā is now available at leading online bookstores! Get your copy now and help the authors by writing a review of the book while you reset and refresh your LIFE!
Steve and I got to catch up on what he has been up to the past year since he was with us last. And I sure was surprised to hear he is making a run for political office in his old childhood area where he lived in Coos Bay, Oregon. That is District 4 for those who live in Oregon. He has even written his resume’ of why he wants to serve Oregonians in congress and this little handbook shares why. It is now available on Amazon.
“America the Beautiful” is a Must Read! ‘Quality of Life’ and survival of our democracy, nation, and the planet can be achieved by rebooting and repurposing state and federal governments–namely, the White House, Congress, and State Legislatures.
A Founding Fathers’ worthy blueprint that actually serves in the best interest of the majority middle-class and below for America’s Survival-an innovative, a functioning platform of agendas and initiatives-with truer middle-class representation for a far more effective, efficient, and inclusive ruling class societal governmental body.
We simply MUST STOP anointing aristocrats, bigots & bullies, conspiracy theorists, and obstructionists as our Rulers! We Must Raise the Bar!
Now, beyond politics, Steve has also been busy writing and revising two of his first favorite children’s books to be appropriate for children of all sages to read and enjoy, not just for the tots as bedtime stories. See, Steve is the “Big Guy behind the little guy of Stevie Tenderheart Books!” I do believe these two ebooks are still on sale until after Valentine’s! They will make a great gift for Valentine’s Day for all the children and grandkids you love in your life! š
by Steve William Laible and Nancy Watson | Oct 8, 2021, ~ Kindle is only $1.99 until after Valentine’s Day!
Based on a True Story. In this version, the author elevated the wildly popular children’s āpicture bookā of the same name, to a 6 x 9ā illustrated paperback novella [77 pages] so older children can get in on the fun too. It’s a fuller, richer story.
Summary: A warm and ātenderheartedā story of gladness and adventure abound in this amazingly crafted, splendidly illustrated story about a boy and his dinosaur and SO much more. Weāre talking about puppies and parrots and rabbits and chicks; frogs and dogs and pollywogs, but we shouldnāt say anymoreā¦surprises and all.
In keeping with theĀ āBEDāĀ theme, of his first book,Ā Stevie Tenderheart My Favorite Place to Be…(A Bedtime Story) where Stevie loves his bed SO much, he wishes he could take it everywhere he goes,Ā in this story,Ā Stevie FILLS his bed instead, with ALL of his favorite things. (If you can imagine.) It’s a hilarious bedtime story with calming twists and turns that both parents and kids adore. The animals and their expressions are just too adorable to miss.
by Steve William Laible and Nancy Watson | Oct 8, 2021, ~ Kindle Also On Sale for $1.99!
Stevie Tenderheart Books
Based on a True Story. In this version, the author elevated the wildly popular āpicture bookā to a full-color, illustrated, 6 x 9″ paperback novella (for older children). Stories within stories of gladness and adventure abound in this sweetly crafted and splendidly illustrated storybook about a little boy who loves his bed SO much, he wishes he could take it everywhere he goes.
Author Insights: The author uses a little misdirection (or leg-pulling) in his books, which is his nature, coming from a comic strip background. He feels this adds to the flavor and fun of his bedtime stories immensely. He believes his tongue-in-cheek writing style resonates with childrenās funny bones.
Build your Stevie Tenderheart Home Library Today!
Stevie’s books are perfect for Bright Eyes & Toothless Grins. They appeal to positivity, kindness, and a general feeling of self-confidence and well-being. They are meant to be read ONLY at bedtime as a prelude to sweet dreams. The gentle cadence and leg-pulling lower the noise of the day, helping children feel silly, safe, (loved & cozy) at bedtime. ZZZzzz
Dispensing with āHe said, She said,ā dialogues, Stevie’s storytelling is easy to read and follow helping parents put their children to bed on time, every time, guaranteed! Just be mindful when you say, “It’s Stevie time.” They will likely hear, “It’s TV time.” (And that’s on you.) “-) (Stevie Tenderheart books have been lauded with 600+ Goodreads ratings and reviews.)
HERE IS Steve’s next fun project is this brand new release of “BACKFIRE!”A DIY Fun Board GAME!
by Steve William Laible | Jan 20, 2022, ~ The Ebook Version Also On Sale FEB. 15th!
A Blast For Family and Friends!
“Backfire” wasnāt created in a think-tank or peer-reviewed by focus groups or industry giants with top-secret, sophisticated, corporate laboratories at their disposal, but rather from the mind of a family man with a creative and innovative thirst for quality time with his boys. āBackfireā is a Do-it-Yourself (DIY) Board Game invented by the authorāa single dad raising his then, three young sons, Adam, Chase, and Kyle.
Family FUN Game Night Returns! Speaks to the truly amazing board game this is. The stacking point play is unmatched with anything on the market today. Manufacturing the actual board game was cost-prohibitive on his military pension, so he decided to share his prototype here in this book, so other gamers can get in on the fun! Competition & strategies are always keen. No game is ever alike. Each game has a different dimension and a different outcome!
āBackfireā is NEVER boring only exciting!!
āBackfireā enjoys elegant play with tremendously crafty twists and turns whether using the multicolored game board or flashcards. One minute you are stacking your dice, bridges, and overpasses (advanced play) and winning! And then, in the blink of an eye, you lose! How will you know? Everyone is yelling āBackfire.ā Thatās just the beginning of the end. Players then add their point values (in chips) to the āFools Potā deciding whether or not to challenge the pot and win untold richesā¦ānuff said.
Beyond being the perfect family board game for decades of fun, āBackfireā is ideal for college dorm life too & military personnel stationed in isolated outposts where recreation & morale are so essential. āBackfireā is the elite MUST HAVE board game when quality family time matters!
About Steve William Laible
Steve Proudly Served Our Country! Thank You, Steve!
Author Steve William Laible
“I shall be in transports of delight once parents, but especially children–those with bright eyes & toothless grins–discover Stevie Tenderheart books.”
Steve William Laible is an American Children’s Author who lives in the Pacific Northwest.
He ended his Stevie Tenderheart comic strip after five years in publication to write more. He currently has 17 Stevie books on Amazon & Amazon Global in Print, ebooks & Audiobooks, plus his Family Fun Game Night Board Gamebook, Backfire by Kodel, a must-get to complete your Stevie Home Library.
Steve served his country with honor & distinction for 22 years as a Mustang (enlisted & officer) from Aerospace Support to Special Duty/Joint Service tours at the Pentagon, Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS); Commander-in-Chief, Pacific (CINCPAC) Hawaii.
As Chief of Administration, USAF Honor Guard (Wash DC); Superintendent of Publishing HQ 15AF; Commander, Civil Engineering Squadron & Commander, Flight Operations (CCQs) in Korea, [honorary call sign āghostā] supporting two F-16 Fighter Squadrons, retiring on New Year’s Eve 1993 as a Captain.
Steve received the Bronze Star device for Desert Storm; Distinguished Graduate (Leadership Academy); Lauded as the USAF Outstanding Administrator of the Year; Nominated for White House Fellowship; unaffiliated 2020 candidate for Congress, Oregon’s 2nd District. Canceled by Covid.
I sure hope you have enjoyed learning more about my buddy and friend, Steve Laible. Before I close I want to share a YouTube Link and really encourage you to not just watch this video, but listen to the words as Steve shot this video some years back about The WHY he loves writing and publishing children’s books. He has a BIG ā¤!
He is the BEST STORYTELLER I know, and many of his books are based on memories of his childhood. Take a listen as the color of the video is a bit rough, but you’ll enjoy it just the same!
; "Illumination Bronze Seal - 250 Roll")
![Stevie Tenderheart Books Backfire by Kodel: (DIY Board Game) Family FUN Game Night Returns! by [Steve William Laible]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51kiw0TwEZL.jpg)
"CAT'S BOOK LIBRARY 4 READERS" 