A Touch of Redemption

Last Thursday, I went for a routine blood test, which has always been challenging due to my very small veins. I was directed from one department to another until finally reaching the blood collection area where many patients were waiting. Despite my upcoming elective procedure on Monday requiring these results, I still needed to wait my turn.

When my time came, the phlebotomist struggled as expected. In a final attempt, she asked me to stretch out both hands, successfully drawing blood from each—though it was quite painful. This experience sparked a profound thought: the discomfort in my hands reminded me of Christ’s crucifixion, though my momentary pain was insignificant compared to His suffering.

What makes this reflection especially meaningful is the Easter season we’re celebrating today! Jesus didn’t remain on that cross or in the tomb—He conquered death and rose again! As the Scripture beautifully declares, “He is not here; he has risen, just as he said,” (Matthew 28:6).

This resurrection isn’t just a historical event but offers hope to everyone. The promise that “because I live, you also will live” (John 14:19) transcends religious boundaries, inviting all to consider what new beginnings might be possible in their lives.

Whether you share my faith in Christ Jesus or not, Easter’s themes of renewal, hope, and perseverance through suffering speak to the universal human experience. Even from small moments of discomfort can come beautiful reflections on life’s deeper meaning.

May we all find moments of peace, renewal and joy during this season!

Happy Easter my friends!

Much love, always!💞😊

Victory Over Death!

Mar31

When I think about Jesus, I feel joy, appreciation for His sacrifice, and overwhelming relief that my life is free from the clutches of sin and shame. Christ paid the ultimate price for me and everyone who believes in Him. He translated my earthly being into a spiritual and heaven-bound believer.

What an overwhelming victory!

Death could not hold Him. Propelled by love, Christ went down to hell and defeated the enemy of our souls. As we enter into the Easter season, I am drawing inspiration from the timeless wisdom of Scripture, which illuminates the significance of Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection for humanity:

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
John 3:16

“He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay.”
Matthew 28:6

The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the ultimate triumph over sin and death, signalling the promise of new life for all who believe in Him.

“He himself bore our sins in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed.”
1 Peter 2:24

This Easter, let us reflect on these powerful truths and rejoice in the hope and redemption that Christ’s death and resurrection bring. May our hearts be filled with gratitude and our spirits renewed as we celebrate the victory of our risen Saviour.

Happy Easter! 🙏🌷✨

A Name in History

Mar20

Today, I want to share something truly special with you all. Have you ever come across a book that not only transports you to another time and place but also leaves you utterly spellbound? Prepare to add a new favourite to your collection: “A Name in History” by Hillery Baptiste.

This captivating historical fiction is like no other. Set in the heart of London, it follows the journey of Ella, whose life takes an unexpected turn when she discovers a seemingly ordinary shell fragment hidden among her late uncle’s belongings. Little does she know, this discovery will lead her on a whirlwind adventure, unravelling family secrets and uncovering a history deeply intertwined with the scars of slavery.

What makes “A Name in History” truly special is its ability to weave together the past and present, taking readers on a poignant journey of self-discovery and resilience. Through Ella’s eyes, we are transported from the vibrant streets of London to the sun-drenched shores of the Caribbean as she delves deep into her family’s history, challenging everything she thought she knew about herself.

But this isn’t just any historical fiction novel; it’s a powerful reminder of the importance of understanding our past. History isn’t just about dates and events; it’s about people, their stories, and the legacies they leave behind. “A Name in History” beautifully captures this essence, reminding us of the indomitable spirit of those who came before us and the strength we inherited from our ancestors.

So, this spring, if you’re looking for a book that will transport you to another time and leave you pondering long after turning the last page, look no further than “A Name in History” by Hillery Baptiste. Trust me; you won’t want to miss out on this incredible journey.

Let me quickly add that I know Hillery personally, and I am so blessed to have edited this novel. You can find “A Name in History” at your local bookstore, online retailers or at Arrow Gate Bookstore here. Let’s learn from history and not repeat the mistakes of the past!

Happy spring reading and much love, always! 📚✨

Tales of Five Lies Reimagined

Jan19

I am back in the fray! After a 12-year hiatus, I have decided to start writing again. I have several abandoned manuscripts on the back burner that I’ve neglected, although I love my job of working in a publishing house, reading manuscripts, and discovering new voices. In the process, I have neglected my own voice. And I then realise I can combine both, manage a publishing house, and write whatever I want.

So, here it is. The second edition of my short story turned novella was published last year September by Arrow Gate Publishing. You can order from Amazon or at Arrow Gate’s Bookstore here. You can the book trailer here.

The plot is an explosive, enthralling thriller that peels back the layers of a seemingly perfect life. Christine White is a woman of privilege and beauty, living a life of opulence. Her existence is shattered on a cloudy night when she becomes an unwitting witness to a chilling crime. As she grapples with the horrors she’s witnessed, a ruthless killer remains on the loose, ready to strike again. In this heart-pounding tale, Christine’s quest for truth reveals that her perfect life is built on a foundation of lies. As she navigates a web of secrets and confronts her darkest fears, the ticking clock adds urgency to her mission, but the price of the truth may be too high to bear. If you’re a fan of thrillers and suspense, “Tales of Five Lies” is a must-read.

“Tales of Five Lies” is a gripping narrative woven with suspense, deceit, and a relentless pursuit of answers. The title is available in paperback and ebook formats. I hope you’ll all enjoy reading it.

Wishing you all a happy and relaxing weekend, my friends! 🙂

Love’s Essence from Two Hands

Oct31

My daughter wrote the poem below on my birthday, and she gave me the permission to share it. If only we have love in the world, we will dance on the streets rather than raining bombs on ourselves. Our souls will have dwelled in safety, not fear.

I hope you’ll all enjoy reading the heartfelt love from a daughter to her mother.

Two Hands

Strong and Firm

Cupping and moulding a shape.

Spreading out a piece of Eternity

Your love, more priceless than

Moonbeams, and fickle dreams

And troubles that dissolve

In times steady pace

Providing a sense of security

Two Hands

That cup my face.

Providing an unexplainable

Yet undeniable sense of place

Apparent in shape and constitution, and beauty

Two Hands with concrete

And resolute wisdom

Pointing beyond the Earth’s clouds

To the Author and Finisher of our Faith

Pointing and providing

Undeniable direction and words of gold from your breath

Though my human and

Simultaneous half girlish and half grown.

Nature may blindside those hands.

You wait, arms and hands outstretched.

Hold within those hands

The love that moulded me

The love and the piece that was.

With you, becomes a part of me.

Resolute and strong, beckoning

Me forth with those Two Hands

Two Hands that lead mine to

The right path, advising, adjusting.

And teaching to pursue beyond

This world

In your embrace, my visage is filled with your warmth.

A cover provided, and obstructing the view.

Of deep and embedded scars of effort

And experience within your

Two Hands

And so, with my own Two Hands, connecting.

Extending out from my arms

I trace the scars.

Interlock fingers and once again

We embrace, but from I to you.

I love you ❤

As I read the poem again, my heart flush with pride and love for my daughter but it was quickly dampened by the wars raging around us. As the world rabbles with overwhelming hatred, I pray and hope we’ll find a way to truly love each other, eschew war, and our world will prosper.

Thanks for reading dear friends and please, stay safe, wherever you are in the world.

Much love, always! 🙂

Scents of the Past

Jul12

Have you ever wondered how some scents can transport you to events in the past? When I peel an orange, I’m reminded of my childhood when my dad would sip a drink under a tree while I played in the backyard. Oranges always trigger these memories for me. Perfumes are a passion of mine as well, and I often find myself attached to a particular fragrance because of the memories it invokes. Certain home fragrances take me back to happy memories, and I keep selecting them.

Our senses can remarkably transport us back in time, evoking vivid memories and emotions. While sight and sound often take centre stage, the power of scent can truly captivate us, unlocking forgotten moments. The aroma of freshly baked bread, the scent of summer rain, or the perfume worn by a loved one—these fragrances hold the key to a sensory time machine, enabling us to relive past scents.

Scents have a unique ability to trigger memories with remarkable precision. I love the aroma of a freshly cut grass (some people may find that strange). It transports me to carefree childhood days spent playing outdoors and chasing my brothers through the countryside. The whiff of a particular dish might conjure images of cherished family gatherings, or spending time with a loved one. Scents have a profound impact on our lives, subtly influencing our moods, triggering nostalgia, and imprinting themselves onto our memories. The fragrance of a particular place, era, or occasion becomes etched in our minds. Exploring the scents of the past is akin to peeling back the layers of history and embarking on a fragrant adventure.

Scents hold a unique and captivating power over our memories. Effortlessly, they take us back to cherished memories, connecting us with our personal histories and the people who influenced them. Whether natural or deliberately crafted, scents enrich our lives and deepen our understanding of the intricacies of human memory.

Are there any scents that have a particular effect on you? I’m eager to read your comments about them below. May we all have a delightful day and a wonderful summer, and always spread love and happiness wherever we may be.

Much love, always! 🙂

Words

Jun30

In a world where silence can be deafening and noise overwhelming, we often underestimate the immense power of the right words. Words possess a profound ability to shape realities, ignite emotions, and create lasting imprints on the tapestry of our lives. With a single word, we can bridge the gap between souls, uniting hearts that were once strangers. We can kindle the flame of inspiration, awakening dormant dreams and pushing the boundaries of what is believed to be possible. A word of encouragement can breathe life into weary spirits, nurturing resilience and instilling the strength to persevere.

Yet, sometimes, words can be wielded as weapons, inflicting wounds that cut deeper than any physical pain. They can tear down the strongest foundations, shattering the delicate harmony of relationships and leaving lasting scars on vulnerable hearts. The damage inflicted by a thoughtless comment can reverberate for years, eroding confidence and casting shadows upon once vibrant souls. We can see plenty of evidence around. Just check social media, and the hatred is staggering!

Words can heal, uplift, build bridges, and tear them down. The right words can unite, divide, inspire, discourage, and empower. The responsibility lies with us, the custodians of language, to choose our words with care and intention, for they have the potential to leave indelible imprints on the lives of others.

Let’s harness the power of words to create worlds of compassion, empathy, and understanding. Let’s paint portraits of hope using vibrant colours of encouragement and affirmation. Let’s craft narratives that celebrate diversity, challenge injustice, and elevate the voices of the marginalised. In the symphony of human existence, may our words be the harmonious notes that resonate with love, empathy, and unity.

In the end, it’s through words that we connect, express, and shape the very essence of our humanity. Let’s never underestimate the power we hold within our tongues and pens. May we choose our words wisely, for they have the potential to transform lives and leave an enduring legacy in the tapestry of our collective existence. The Bible says in Proverbs 18:21, “a gentle tongue is a tree of life, but perverseness in it breaks the spirit.”

So let us embrace the beauty of kind words, like a field of blossoming flowers, and spread their gentle essence wherever we go. May we sow seeds of kindness through our words and make the world a more beautiful place.

Be kind with your words!

Much love, always. 😊

Uncover the Gripping Tale of Love, Trust, and Sacrifice in “Pictures of Anna”

Jun27

In the midst of the cruel and tumultuous era of war, there are stories that transcend the boundaries of time and place, touching the depths of human emotions. “Pictures of Anna” is one such captivating tale that weaves together themes of love, trust, and sacrifice against the backdrop of the horrors of war.

This captivating tale will transport you to a bygone era of war and unveil the profound human emotions that transcend time and place. “Pictures of Anna,” written by Sam Martin, an award-winning British author living in Germany, is a spellbinding tale that cleverly blends the themes of love, trust, and sacrifice with the brutal backdrop of war.

In a quaint old Norman church, under the golden rays of the late morning sun, a young bride named Anna anxiously awaits her groom. Her journey is one of escape, a desperate flight from the horrors of her past as a German of Roma origin during the dark days of 1930s Germany. London becomes her sanctuary, promising a new life free from the terrors that haunted her.

Sam Martin unfolds a powerful narrative, revealing a tapestry of emotions that resonate with readers. Through his gritty prose, Martin paints a sensitive portrait of Anna’s life, entwined with hope and heartbreak, love and hate, anger and confusion. The story becomes a poignant exploration of blind prejudice, intolerance, and redemption.

Martin skilfully brings to life the claustrophobic and tense atmosphere of the home front. He delves into the prevailing opinions of the time and illuminates the seismic decisions made by those in positions of power. In doing so, he creates a well-rounded view of the era, shedding light on the struggles and sacrifices of everyday people caught in the turmoil of war.

Anna’s journey resonates deeply with (me) readers, reminding us of the indomitable human spirit. Her story serves as a stark reminder that the effects of war extend far beyond the battlefields, impacting lives in profound ways. It challenges us to confront our prejudices as we witness the consequences of blind hatred and the power of love to overcome adversity. The fate of Anna is an unfortunate reflection of many lives still facing prejudice while searching for safety from war.

As you delve into the pages of this remarkable novel, you will be transported to a world where the past collides with the present, where Anna’s story becomes a universal tale of triumph over adversity. Through its pages, we are invited to witness history through the eyes of those who lived it and to cherish the freedoms we enjoy today.

I enjoyed reading and editing this story of hope, heartbreak, and redemption. The lady who inspired the author, Sam Martin, is still alive, and through her story, we gain a deeper understanding of the resilience of the human spirit and the power of hope to guide us through the darkest times.

Pictures of Anna is available wherever books are sold, and can also be purchased directly from the publisher here: https://arrowgatepublishing.com/store/

Dreams and Realities

Jun19

Unveiling the Mysterious Tale of Hugo Swann: Dreams That Haunt and Reality That Terrifies.

In this gripping mystery written by C.D. Fox, the author presents a haunting tale of suspense set against the backdrop of Oxford University. This gripping thriller plunges readers into the unsettling journey of Hugo Swann, the son of a renowned psychiatrist, a shy and introverted student struggling to find his place in an unfamiliar environment. Hugo’s life takes an unexpected turn when he finds love and delves into uncharted territories, only to be besieged by a relentless string of unsettling dreams that threaten his sanity.

Hugo grapples with his own inner demons while seeking solace in the arms of a new girlfriend, Alice and embracing new experiences. However, as his dreams intensify, Hugo’s path intersects with a mysterious woman, haunted by a troubled past, who seeks psychiatric treatment from his own father.

Little does Hugo know that this encounter will plunge him deeper into a nightmarish abyss. As the veil between dreams and reality becomes increasingly blurred, Hugo finds himself in desperate need of psychiatric assessment, unable to distinguish between the sinister occurrences plaguing his sleep and the waking world. In a race against time, Alice embarks on a heart-pounding quest to uncover the truth. But as she unravels the mysteries surrounding Hugo’s plight, she discovers a shocking truth. Will Hugo be willing to confront the terrifying reality that awaits him?

“Dreams” is a masterful blend of mystery, thriller, and suspense that will captivate readers from the first page to the last. C.D. Fox weaves a spellbinding narrative, delving deep into the darkest recesses of the human mind, leaving readers spellbound and questioning the limits of perception.

Prepare yourself for a mind-bending exploration of the human psyche, where dreams become nightmarish traps, and reality holds unimaginable horrors. With every twist and turn, the tension mounts, and the race to unveil the truth becomes an urgent and relentless pursuit.

I enjoyed editing this novel and readers are indeed in for a ride. The novel is available wherever books are sold.

Chasing Humans: A Poetic Film

Feb18

”Human life is as evanescent as the morning dew or a flash of lightning.’‘ – Samuel Butler. I agree because life and love is a journey. Find out more in this short documentary I wrote and directed with a friend.

Here’s a transcript of the film:

Life is a journey, and it starts with a cry… the cry of a new-born baby. It ends with moans, groans, or the contented sigh of an older man or woman who’s led a fruitful life.

Or it can end in running feet, a chase, a stab, searing pain, blood splattered on the sidewalk, the cold street receding away as a young life flitter away into nothingness…

A life cut short…

Humans are chasing humans and killing without thought or regard for the pains inflicted on unfamiliar people.

Life can end well, or, it may end in tragedy.

Twenty years ago, I got married to the man of my dreams, and two years later, I was in the hospital, in labour, and anticipating the birth of my son.

It was a complicated process. A short life, my son passed away two days after he was born.

My life stopped briefly.

I didn’t know how to process my grief. I cried every night, and I prayed every night.

Days passed. Time didn’t wait for my grief. And I healed with the love of my husband and family.

Three months later, there was a miracle.

I was pregnant again. This time, everything felt different, but I was hiding my fears. I smiled openly while I cried and cringed inside, wondering if the new life growing inside me would live, and survive.

Nine months later, I welcomed another son.
He lives. He’s kind and makes me laugh. He’s energetic and loves life. I had two more children, a daughter and another son.

My family means everything to me.

But something is wrong.

I’ve lived in London for over fifteen years, and every time there’s a young life wasted on the streets, I remember the child I lost.

Although my son died as a new-born baby and in different circumstances, I relive the pain every time I read or watch the news of another senseless killing of young people on our streets.

My eldest son is now 17. He’s brilliant and hardworking. He had one of the best GCSE results in his school, and he’s currently studying Medicine at A levels. He wants to be a doctor. Samuel wants to help and make our society a better place for everyone.

But should I be afraid anytime he’s out of the house? Or because of the colour of his skin?

Can I have hope that things will improve, and that love may conquer hatred, racism, anger and the ugliness inherent in the human soul?

My son believes in a better society, a better world.

Rafael Benedetti wants the world to see goodness in him. Fay Beneddeti intends to champion the course of women and family. These people are keen to see positive changes in our society.

Maybe, there is hope Afterall.

I won’t be afraid anymore.

Hope, no matter how fleeting is still better than fear.

Loving humans can be a reality while chasing humans could become a myth.

I hope love wins!

I want life to end well for our young people.

Let’s start from the beginning.

Seyi Sandra David.