New Poem: Louder Than Words

I am finally back after the insanity that has been the last few weeks! Between setting up new book events, working my (regular) job, and writing the third book in the series, I haven't had much time for anything else. Fortunately, I've been writing a lot of new poems, and compiling some of the best (at least, in my opinion) for Dauntless.

Soon, I plan to write some posts about subjects other then my books and poetry, I have a lot I want to write! Time management has always been a friend to me, but as I get busier, it's become harder to breathe! Whoever told me that summer break would be less crazy then a semester was wrong, or at least, in my case! Oh well, at least I'll get to vacation before school starts back up.

The poem that I will share with you today is called "Louder than Words", and was borne after a long day that prompted deep thought. Sometimes I'm convinced that my best poems come to fruition in the oddest hours of the morning, but oh well! I really hope you enjoy it, as it was a lot of fun to write!

Louder than Words

I love the depth of mind-crafted words

Precious thoughts inscribed in ink

The heart's true intent, that like a bird

Wings it's way to glory, refusing to sink

The pen is mighty, stronger then blades

Oh, how fitting that it bends the swords

Should warriors tremble at the sound, afraid

For don't they know war is louder than words?

Discriminate not, in passion the fiery tongue

Meant to be heard, a pounding drum

That breaks from the pages and through lungs

Calling for all who crave depth to boldly come

Why hide your face, did disgrace promise aid

In a life scrambling for meaning, craving truth?

So much empty talk, but is anyone unafraid?

Can an ear bend to works grand in breadth?

Shadows dwell where pools of light should be

Eyes show shattered windows to empty souls

Hungering for the ability to boldly live free

Speaking words of truth beyond their control

Like vines, the whispers tangle

Desperate to breathe in wonder

Their minds, oh so strangled

Can blind eyes ever see color?

The world is muted and violent

But there's a glimpse of light

In kind words that shatter silence

Ringing in ears longing to fight

The pen is mighty, stronger then blades

Oh, how fitting that it bends the swords

Should warriors tremble at the sound, afraid

For don't they know war is louder than words?

(Picture not mine, found on google images)

HEAV Convention: An Absolute Sellout!

I am finally returning to a regular schedule of posts, after spending the last two weeks preparing for the Virginia homeschoolers convention! I had first attended this convention as a vendor two years ago under the Young Entrepreneurs section, and now I finally had a chance to return; this time as a full-blown vendor under my own brand. 

I have to admit I wasn't sure what to expect. My first experience had been good, but disappointing in some ways, so I was naturally a little nervous. After all, this was to be my first book signing as a traditionally published author, and there are certain risks to be taken when undergoing such an endeavor. Being a new author can honestly be scary at times, but also incredibly exciting. 

I am happy to say that I did not leave discouraged. In fact, I found my passion for writing rekindled through the passion and fire in the hearts of many, many young people I encountered. Not only did I sell out of every single copy of Wings of Honor, as well as most of Wings of Darkness (all but two), but I also got the chance to meet so many aspiring authors and writers!

Speaking to these amazing young people truly humbled me. I honestly found it a little difficult to stand there as they looked up at me with admiration...because I truly still see myself as one of them; a fiery dreamer with goals as big as the sky. Who am I but a simple artist with a love of words, who wants to bring hope to a dying world? Some would call that statement dramatic, and perhaps it is. But if it is truthful, then at least I can speak with candor.

I was also incredibly blessed to have my best friend (basically a sister) Sarah help me run the booth and keep the operation smooth and stress-free! Not only has she inspired my writing and encouraged me to share my stories with the world, but she has been a steadfast warrior at my side through thick and thin. Seriously, every writer needs a friend as awesome and indispensable as her! Thank you sis, for all you do, it is not taken for granted!

Yes, I experienced overwhelming success, but money is not my end-goal, nor will it ever be. I really enjoyed encouraging these incredibly talented young writers to press forward into their writing, and to never give up on the story God has given them! I hope to read their stories one day, I sure am excited for each and every one of them as they embark on their journeys God has in store for them! 

This is my favorite part of writing; meeting like-minded people who share a similar passion for writing. Sure, I love penning stories and delving deep into worlds previously unknown...but how precious is a heart full of love for books that could one day change the world? 

Even if my books never fall into the hands of another reader, this past weekend has proven to me that what I have done, and am doing, matters. That God is using me to touch people I have never met, and perhaps may never truly know. And even if I never get to meet these young people again, I am praying for them all every single day! May I always carry that passion in my heart as long as I write, and I pray I never forget that God is the source of my stories, as well as my success. 

I am so thankful for everyone who came out and supported me, purchased my books, and shared in my dream! You guys are the best, and I am so grateful to have met every single one of you! 

I plan on doing more events in the future, and as soon as I have some events set in stone, I will share them on my blog and Facebook pages!