Unlike many authors, becoming a...
Unlike many authors, becoming a writer was never a goal of mine as a girl. So imagine my surprise when an old boyfriend sent me a photo of myself from college. There I was sitting on the edge of the bed in my dorm room with a tablet and a pen. Writing. It was thirty years later that I became a published author.
In the years between then and now, I've been a single parent, struggling to raise two boys mostly on my own. Often my salary has been closer to the poverty line than I've liked, and I've lived with much of the stress that accompanies this reality. However, the loss of job months after my book was published left me with few career opportunities. With limited choices I re-enrolled in a college program, this time determined to finish my degree.
Now, at 51 years old, I am two semesters away from graduating from college. I've managed to get all A's throughout my Junior year and was inducted into the Alpha Sigma Lambda honor society weeks ago. After graduation I plan to enter grad school and achieve my Master's in English with a concentration in Creative Writing. I would like to teach writing workshops and adult learners at the Community College level.
Because so many African-American women become single parents, whether by design or accident, it is my hope that my 'late-in-life' achievements might inspire another. Over the past two semesters I've also tutored young women and men who are in the process of discovering themselves and shaping their own dreams. I hope they consider the importance of education because it is truly the best 'equalizer' that a person in poverty has.
I love to write stories of 'ordinary folk' and hope to pen many more novels throughout the years. But, I am also grateful that my first book, Plenty Good Room led to a change in circumstances that set me on a new and unexpected path. I've discovered new joy in learning and expect the institute of education, in some format, will be a part of my life for many years to come.
Copyright © Cheri Paris Edwards
