My inspiration for writing “The Belly Bug Bully”

As a children’s book author, the most common question I am asked is, “What inspires you to write your books?” For the people who know me as a teacher, writer, and mom, they would bet their lives that there is only one, standard, and obvious answer to this question and that would be, my one and only 6-year-old son. This is, undoubtedly, true if the question asked, “Who?” but the “what” is not so simple. It is the most challenging question in and of itself. Why?

As an educator, my role is not only to teach writing skills and literary interpretation, it is to have children of all ages expand their minds, explore their imaginations, and discover truths about and within themselves that are often triggered by the analysis of characters in stories we read and create.

The goal is to relate to the characters, make them come alive, and to learn valuable lessons about life that will help all of us be better individuals in society, better people who have a solid understanding of self- worth, self-respect, and respect for others. It is by far the most difficult yet rewarding mission of my time and career and I am forever dedicated to it. It is vital.

I create a literal world for children that emphasizes the importance of positive self-esteem and personal strength in order to overcome adversity. My children’s books are my own anti-bullying campaign, if you will. My voice is echoed through my characters who reinforce the greatness behind individuality and being unique, loving oneself and embracing those around us.

In this contemporary world of bullying and not-so-nice peers, we must come together as parents and educators to empower our children from an early age to believe in themselves and be good, moral, responsible people. We must reiterate to them that a positive mental attitude is essential in developing positive and healthy self-esteem and personal growth. And so, I founded a child empowerment program: UP TO ME! The Magazine Where Kids Are Free to Be.

My son is my source of inspiration, yes, and motherhood has instilled a powerful force within me to be strong for him, to teach him the most precious lessons in life – the ones grown-ups often forget, and to give him a life of love, encouragement, and support. I stand strong for him and for me – and for all the children, adolescence, and teens who are suffering internally or walk with their heads down. But I stand here – a survivor – bully free and proud to be – for all of us. No one is alone.

I know the journey is long and the road is quite bumpy at times. I admit to frowning upon the clouds, but they do keep us grounded. Without them, we wouldn’t enjoy the sun. Today, I encourage you to be the rainbow in someone’s cloud (Maya Angelou). DON’T TRY. JUST DO IT!