Today we are talking with Q. M. Herrera, the author of Blessed Inspirations – The Greatest Is Love.
Tell us something unexpected about yourself!
I love to laugh and spend time with family/friends. I am very passionate about music and love to sing!
What kind of books do you write?
Blessed Inspirations – The Greatest Is Love is a personal collection of poems, lyrics, prayers and meditations, which were divinely inspired to bring peace, light, love and inspiration to all, regardless of religious denomination, age, race or gender. During this special spiritual journey, I drew upon my life experiences in order to relay my innermost feelings and reflections on faith, hope, love and life. I also express my deepest gratitude and appreciation, through joyful praises to our God, the Creator of Heaven and Earth, for His presence and all the wonderful blessings He has bestowed upon me.
What inspired you to write?
For as long as I am able to remember, my faith has been a very big part of my life. Throughout the years, I served in different ministries at the church and always felt as though I had a calling to do more, but I couldn't quite put my finger on it.
Around the time I graduated with my M.S. in Legal Studies, which was in January 2012, I became a member of Ave Maria Singles. Shortly after joining, I came across an announcement regarding the Padre Pio pilgrimage (Italy), which was scheduled for October 2012. I had been searching for a spiritual experience for quite some time and when I read the description, I knew immediately that this is what I wanted to do. The entire trip was filled with many beautiful experiences that left a lasting impression.
Although God has been preparing me for this all my life, I feel that the Padre Pio pilgrimage, along with my repeated visit to Rome in 2014, played an important role in my spiritual journey and self-discovery. For quite some time, God had been nudging me to write, but I didn't really understand what He was trying to tell me and the idea of writing a book never crossed my mind. In mid-2014, I had a breakthrough moment and wrote my first poem (and first song) called Your Presence. After that liberating, soul stirring, healing experience, the words of inspiration just kept pouring out of me and it was the first time in my life that I discovered my purpose.
What makes your writing stand out from the crowd?
My book is not a traditional novel or book of poetry. It is a very creative book that contains a mixture of poems, meditations and inspirational writings. I truly believe that the entire project was divinely inspired and contains a very special message that will make a very positive impact in many people's lives.
What is the hardest part of writing – for you?
Getting started with the writing was somewhat difficult. Once I applied myself and was in the right frame of mind, things became more clear as to what I was supposed to do and the words of inspiration started to flow. However, I must say that the editing/publishing process was the most gruelling.
Where do you like to write – what is your routine?
I don't have a specific routine or place where I write, but will note things down in a notebook or use a digital device whenever inspiration strikes.
What do you do when you are not writing – do you have a day job?
Yes … I work full-time as a paralegal during weekdays.
Do you work with an outline or just write?
A little of both. Although the contents of my book were written freely and on different occasions, I created a general concept for the manner in which the book was going to be organized/structured.
What advice would you have for other writers?
Enjoy this beautiful journey and gift that God has given you. Try to write as often as you're able, but the writing process should not be forced. In other words, free your mind and let things flow. I have learned that when things become difficult, it may be a good time to take a step back, re-assess the situation and let things happen naturally. Everything is and always will be in God's time.
How important is marketing and social media for you?
Marketing and social media have become very essential in business, regardless of industry. Additionally, social media is a very important tool to use in marketing and mass communications.
What's your next step?
I will continue to write and work on raising awareness about my new book.
Blessed Inspirations – The Greatest Is Love by Q. M. Herrera is available here.
If you are interested in book promotion, please visit http://thebookpromoter.com
