Last night, I had the privilege of joining Sherry Belul for the online book release launch for Nothing Bad Between Us, graciously hosted by Annie Bloom’s Books. If you were unable to attend, don’t worry! You can watch the event on YouTube by clicking here.
It was a wonderful evening full of shared insights, memories, experiences, and, most importantly, stories. I admit, I found the prospect a little strange at first. Zoom literature readings are new to me! However, the warmth radiated from all involved led to a lovely community experience. I can’t wait to do my next online event (which will be announced very soon)!
Until then, remember, we are together on this journey!
The Zoom book launch was a tremendous success Marlena. You were vivacious and sparkling–fully engaged. It struck me that compared to a more traditional setting where the “audience” would probably have been lined up in chairs facing you, with Zoom we were all front facing. There was a wonderful patchwork quilt of faces–your friends and admirers–attentive, reactive, smiling, nodding–and we could see each other. (Ed did look a little tense, maybe worried about the technology and how it would go. He can relax now.)
There were some challenging questions, and again I was struck by how fluidly and
thoughtfully you responded to them. It’s one thing to sit in front of your computer and have the time to craft just the right words, but you were so spontaneous with the right words.
I was delighted to see names of people I knew–Bill and Linda Pickett, Darci Alexander, your offspring–Shareen and family and even Stefan. I could see he sent you a note at the end, “Congrats Mom.” It may be the greatest vulnerability was revealing your deeply personal history to your own children.
I will write a five star ***** review of your book for Amazon. It is gripping, and I think readers who don’t know you will come away feeling changed and inspired. I now know you even better and feel such awe for your struggle and your journey. The journey of a lifetime.
Pat, thank you so much, first of all for being there for the launch event, and also for your very kind words!
I didn’t see any of the “chat” comments, so thank you also for letting me know about Stefan’s note. I wonder what else I missed from the Chat area.
It was wonderful to be among so many of my friends for this event. And I loved the questions, even though I fumbled some of them. My son Brad has assured me that this makes me more authentic!
Always so grateful for your love and support!
Pat — I responded to today’s Medium post by Marlana as follows. I think it speaks to what you saw in me on the screen during the zoom call. Be well and be safe.
Marlena says she “barely got through the bookstore-hosted Zoom launch event without crying.” While I have had the privilege of reading this deeply personal authentic material from her book before, I did not get through the podcast without crying several times. Marlena’s deep, rich, responsible vulnerability is inspiring.
Ed
Deep personal content beautifully delivered.