Saturday 15 December 2012

Guest Post: The Rest of the Way



I wish I could write like her. 

I wish I could be as honest and as raw and as unpretentious in my writing as she is.

But at the same time, I am happy that I don't (write like her, that is) – that nobody does, really.  Because this way, I (and the world at large) gain a fresh new voice, yet another story-teller – sharing her life, making it ours, without being pushy or judgmental. 

Maybe it is your story, too – or maybe just snippets of it. It really doesn't matter. Perhaps you disagree with her on some things, or you think, "Oh my gosh, she got it so right!" The point is, her writing inspires dialogue and perspective, lots of thought and, sometimes, much needed action in our lives.

This is her journey, her story, and while she certainly never set out to be the “the voice” or poster child for divorced, African, Christian women, she is undoubtedly one of them – authentic and well worthy of being an advocate, in my opinion.  And indeed, why not? I think we can all agree that her writing has filled a niche that had, prior to, never been addressed in the blogosphere or publishing world.

I am proud to present to you the writing world's newest author-to-be. 

Long overdue, since she taught me everything I know about writing (she was nine and I was six). 

Yes, she is my sister.

And mentor. And biggest cheerleader and inspiration. And soon to be best-selling author (I don't have a crystal ball, but it is easy to call this one): rmj.

Yes, rmj just secured a book contract with a publisher to go “from blog to book.”

Although some of you may now realize who she is, she has chosen not to publicize her identity and will publish under the pen name of ‘Nena Ndioma.’  I know you will love her as those of us who know her do.

Let's enjoy the rest of her journey.


PradaPrincipal




10 comments:

  1. I'm very happy for RMJ! She's truly a gifted writer...a refreshing new voice. As you rightly pointed out, she tells my story (and indeed that of so many other women too). I am a divorced, christian, African woman and i must confess that i couldn't tell the story of my own journey better than she does. She's always on point! I love the way she writes and I've looked forward to reading her posts from the first day I started reading her.
    Congrats RMJ!! I have no doubt whatsoever that you will become a bestselling author. I'm definitely coming along on the rest of your journey. God bless you...

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    1. Thank you, Anonymous. Really. Thank you. God bless.

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  2. Halleluyah!!! Glory to God- love this! Congrats rmj!

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  3. Many congratulations! I saw the book coming a long time ago and I love to tell you that I told you so! Looking forward to reading the book version, Daddy's Mama.

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    1. Yes, you did, and I haven't forgotten. You told me so for sure. Thank you so much.

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  4. Best news of the year!! Congrats RMJ aka Nena Ndioma!! now we have something to look forward to in the new year. The book will definately be a best seller. Wow!! Nice :)

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    1. You're much too kind, Nzilani. Thank you. I don't know about the 'best-seller' thing, but ... I'm just glad it'll appear at all. Happy Holidays.

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  5. I'm really not surprised at this news you're a voice to be heard RMJ and I'm glad i was pointed this way. My first few visits to this blog made me cry but also reduced my aloneness. Congratulations and I'll gladly sell the books.

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    1. Thank you ever so much, Casio. I'm glad you were pointed this way, too, and yes, you are definitely not alone.

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