A Book is Born
When one understands the why behind a goal, it becomes far easier to persevere through the challenges inherent in determining how to achieve it.
Writing, publishing, and ultimately delivering a book to readers is by no means a simple undertaking. While the writing process itself demands extensive research, careful refinement of ideas, repeated drafting, and rigorous self-editing, the publishing world presents an entirely different and often unforgiving journey. Submitting a manuscript for evaluation—subject to scrutiny and critique by multiple publishers before acceptance—is a solitary and arduous path, one that few choose to travel.
Although securing a literary agent can be advantageous, obtaining one is a challenge. Responses from potential publishers were frequently discouraging: polite rejections, statements of limited capacity, assertions that the work does not align with their scope, or recommendations to pursue costly editing services—often followed by long waiting periods of eighteen to twenty-two months. After enduring this cycle repeatedly, I realized I could no longer remain stalled at the gates of traditional publishing, I pursued another option.
At that point, I paused to reflect, guided by a single, powerful word that helped me move forward: versus
Through careful consideration of choices that I had, I came to understand that progress required commitment to one path over another—not both. These pivotal contrasts included:
Giving up versus trying once more
Remaining true to myself versus conforming to the majority
Following intuition versus chasing market trends
Passive voice versus active voice
Progress versus perfection
Quitting versus adapting
Being realistic versus being accommodative
On October 28, 2025, a long-held dream was finally realized. Through prayer, perseverance, and unwavering faith, my first book—Awakened Faith: How a Grandmother’s Wisdom Made All the Difference—was officially published.
This moment evokes memories of a traditional Kikuyu song often sung during momentous occasions such as weddings, graduations, and dowry ceremonies. Its meaning is deeply fitting: “The many prayers I held for this day have been answered. Look and see—the day has finally arrived”. Even as I write these words, I can almost hear the chorus and ululations that accompany such celebrations.
There are no unanswered prayers; some simply require time to come to fruition. Prayer teaches perseverance and patience, reinforcing the importance of steadfast trust and unwavering faith in the Creator of the universe.
As this book is introduced to the world, I am profoundly grateful that I chose not to give up. Despite uncertainty, rejection, and moments when the path ahead seemed obscured, I remained committed to writing, believing, and moving forward. Emerging on the other side of that tunnel stands as a testament to faith and resilience.
Ultimately, the decision to move forward rests with everyone. Hold fast to your faith, persevere with purpose, and in time, you will be glad you did. My hope is that this book, Awakened Faith, adds value to you as a reader. I’d love to hear your thoughts. I am an email away…
