When confronted with a life-altering diagnosis, the path forward is often shrouded in uncertainty. This episode delves into the incredible journey of an individual who, despite grappling with Stargardt's Eye Disease, found solace and strength in their unwavering faith. This condition, leading to legal blindness, could have been the end of aspirations and dreams. Yet, for our guest, it marked the beginning of an awe-inspiring transformation—a journey from corporate obscurity to the pinnacle of personal achievement as a published author.

Amidst the corporate world's insensitivity, our guest's invisible disability became a battleground for their spirit. The pressure of maintaining a facade of normalcy while struggling with a deteriorating central vision was immense. However, the episode reveals a pivotal moment—a divine call to rise from the depths of despair. The encouragement to "get up" ignited a creative spark, leading to the penning of a book that not only represented a personal victory but also a beacon of hope for others facing similar battles.

The COVID-19 pandemic forced many into isolation, but for our guest, it was a crucible for creativity. The stillness of lockdown served as an opportunity to cultivate a newfound passion for writing. The rhythmic influence of music became the backdrop to an intensive writing period that yielded four novels in just six months. The episode underscores the importance of dedication to the craft, from seeking the guidance of a writing coach to understanding the technicalities of publishing. It highlights how embracing one's authentic voice and connecting with a supportive community can be transformative for aspiring writers.

The foundation of faith and resilience is another central theme explored in this episode. Our guest credits Auntie Shirley with instilling spiritual values from a young age. These teachings provided the fortitude to navigate the tempest of life's trials, including familial absence and vision loss. The biblical story of Joseph is discussed as an allegory for our guest's experience, suggesting that adversity can be a conduit to a greater understanding of one's purpose and God's plan.

As the episode progresses, we learn about the author's current projects, including a prequel set in the 1930s, inspired by family stories. The conversation delves into the cautious approach to adapting written work into film, emphasizing the need for patience, prayer, and alignment with spiritual intuition. Despite vision loss, the guest's heightened senses enrich their creative process, illustrating how obstacles can open unexpected doors to personal growth and artistic expression.

Finally, the podcast touches on the importance of spiritual discernment. Losing central vision was a transformative event for our guest, providing a unique perspective on life and human interaction. This chapter of the episode offers a metaphor for the broader human experience—our tendency to overlook the essential while fixating on the trivial. It's a poignant reminder that true insight often lies beyond what the eyes can see.

In conclusion, this episode is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of faith. It's a narrative that encourages us to embrace our challenges as opportunities for growth and creativity. Our guest's story is not just one of triumph over vision loss but a broader message about the potential within all of us to overcome adversity and achieve our dreams, no matter the odds.

CJ Moneyway and Tarris Marie