On August 22, I took part in the Facebook group, Readers Coffeehouse, for their 2nd Annual Great Book Giveaway. Participants included the founding authors of the group, other authors, and thousands of readers. Each author posted their book with a question for members to answer. Later in the day, each author chose the winner (s) for our individual contest.
I posted the following:
I chose a quote off the back cover to use for the introduction to the book that I’ll give away today (signed if U.S. address – outside U.S.: we’ll work something out.) to one member who answers the question, “Who do you turn when you need support during tough times?”
“Broken Brain, Fortified Faith is an inspiring story of one family’s journey through the fear and isolation of mental illness. This courageous memoir sends a powerful message: there is always hope.” Barbara Claypole White, bestselling author of The Perfect Son.
The number of responses and answers astonished me. I closed the contest at 9 p.m. CST a few hours before it ended. (I go to bed early and start my day before dawn.)
When I closed the contest, 467 people took the time to comment on my post. As I answered each contestant, I adored the interactions during the day. People offered support to each other as they commented on one another’s answers.
I ended the social media interaction tired, and grateful. Most days I want to shut off the news because I hear only about the tragic and sad events. This response renewed my hope in people.
Yesterday, I tallied the comments according to four categories: Family, Faith, Friends, and Other. (Other includes: Myself, my dog, or I don’t have anyone.)
I’m elated to share my findings.
Why?
Readers Coffeehouse unites authors and readers who love to read without mention of faith preferences. I invited members to answer any way they chose. After I tabulated the results, my heart grew ten sizes. The majority of contestants depend on their families, their faith, and their friends. As I read the high percentage who receive encouragement from their spouse, it renewed my hope in marriage.
Craft stores sell the signs, “Faith, Family, Friends” for a reason. We need each other.
Join me as I vow to listen with focus, accept another’s burdens, and hug with my words. I want to help the next person during the tough times in their life.
“…not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”
Philippians 2:4
Virginia Pillars, Author 