by Cathy Stenquist
4/3/2015

Down in my basement, absorbed in writing at my computer, I had forgotten to turn on the outdoor light for my husband’s arrival home. As the key fumbled in the dark lock, I ran up the stairs to the entryway, just in time to have the door swing open with a “Hi There… Did you know there is a box out here for you?” “There is?” I questioned as he handed it to me. I flipped the box around in my arms and upon seeing the name on the address sticker; I let out a squeal and ran up into the kitchen putting the box reverently on the table. I stepped back, looked in Scott’s eyes and said, ”It’s my book!”

“Well. Are you going to open it?” he offered? But it isn’t everyday that one sees their own name and that of Simon and Schuster in the same place. I wanted to savor the moment. After giggling and staring at the box, a small slit allowed the cardboard flaps to open. The grocery paper packing was pulled back in one corner showing the word “Hope.” Another shriek and tears and I was soon holding the book in my hands.

Going quickly to the index, my finger slid down over the titles, searching. And there on page 30, story #6 was my story “A Note from Heaven”. It is hard to explain the feeling. Seeing my name in print and at last, the gift of the miracle story that happened after my grandmother passed could now be shared to bring hope to others. I was ecstatic!

I always knew I loved to write. Observing life and being able to convey all the sensory emotion I was feeling in my experiences was what I loved to do best. Putting words together and seeing how they touched people's hearts was very rewarding to me. I never thought about writing, as a career though, just was very quick to raise my hand if any story telling or writing were needed. After a few years of being an empty nester, it was now time for me to explore what I wanted to be when I grew up!

My journey toward being published took a big leap when I signed up for a writing class at Kamala. The class run by teacher Julie Nardone (http://giuliettathemuse.com/) was just what this wanna-be author needed to kick start the flow of words. A small group of four we wrote, laughed, shared encouraged and ultimately gained some confidence. During one of my classes she suggested that my story might suit Chicken Soup for the Soul and to check out their website. As if divinely planned, I noted that they were accepting stories for their Hope and Miracles book. With a deep breath, I clicked the mouse and sent it off. Within three weeks I was notified that out of 1000’s of stories submitted, I was a finalist and a month later my inclusion in the book was confirmed.

I am both humbled and delighted to have been invited to speak at next Wednesday’s session of WINGS (Women in God’s Spirit) at St. Mary’s. I will be speaking on the topic -- “There will be joy! – Hope and Miracles,” where I will share the story of how my grandmother reached out to comfort a grieving heart. I will be selling copies of the book with all monies taken in to be donated to the Holliston Food Pantry.

Event is: Wednesday April 8th at 9:45 am at St. Mary’s in Fr. Haley Hall

If you are not able to come, but would be interested in purchasing a copy to support the Pantry, please email me at cathy@stenquist.com, and I will get back to you as soon as possible.

Author Cathy Stenquist and her grandmother Middy Norpell

With this Easter week upon us, and the message of hope that it brings, it seems like the perfect time to share this story as well as the many others included in this book that will amaze and inspire you.