THE HEART AND SOUL OF J'SON M. LEE

J'son M. Lee is the Owner and President of Sweet Georgia Press, a multi-dynamic publishing and editing firm based in Baltimore, MD.  He was born in Lewiston, NC, and resides in Baltimore, MD, where he enjoys a fulfilling, yet busy life that includes managing commercial properties, writing books, editing, food and entertainment, and spending time with loved ones.

Lee is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, earning a degree in Speech Communication with a concentration in Performance Studies. He is a multiple award-winning author who creates works that challenge the notion of normalcy. Most recently he was named 2013 Author of the Year by SGL BOOKLOVERS magazine. With his pen, he seeks to broaden minds and reinforce the universality of love. With wit and a gift for narrative, he creates characters that will speak to your heart. His works include Just Tryin' To Be Loved, How Could My Husband Be GAY?, the "Friends or Lovers" short story series (Best Friends, More Than Friends and Can't Be Friends), love One (short story), and One Family's AIDS (short story).

Lee is also a writer and celebrity interviewer at Proud Times Magazine in Spokane, WA, and host of a monthly BlogTalkRadio show, A Different Kind of Love.

Courtesy of jmcoylee.com

Imani: J’son, you’re well-loved and respected among our peers, and I’m sure many of them are familiar with your background. But share with us, what makes J’son M. Lee the man he is today?

J’son: Imani, first of all, thank you for this opportunity, and thank you for those kind words.  What makes me the man I am today?  That’s a great question.  I think the answer is quite simply my experiences—mainly the bad ones.  I’ve been very candid about my upbringing, and those things shaped the person you see today.  They made me stronger.  They made me better.  They kept me honest.  They made me push harder, and want more.  There are times that I wish my life—especially my childhood—had been different, but I continue to believe that God doesn’t make mistakes.  I am exactly where I am supposed to be and who I am supposed to be.

Your debut novel, Just Tryin’ to be Loved, was an awesome read. I loved it! So share with the readers, what inspired you to write a compelling story?

I wrote this story for selfish reasons—to release a lot of the pain and disappointment I experienced in my own life as it relates to acceptance, love, and relationships. There is a lot of similarity between me and the main character, Mark Harris. Mark’s views on love—and life in general—mirror my own.  Despite everything that’s happened in my life, I am still a hopeless romantic. I hope this book makes people believe in themselves and believe in love.

Just Tryin’ To Be Loved has some very colorful characters, most of which are based on people I know.  My favorite character was Gramma’.  The relationship Mark has with his grandmother is the relationship I had with my own grandmother, Georgia Lee (who is also my company’s namesake).  In reading the book, I hope you will see my love for her and the wonderful lessons she taught me.

What about the development of the characters, were there any challenges of creating them?

I think this project was the only one where there weren’t challenges with character development.  I remember sitting in my dining room and literally having conversations with and between the characters.  They were all so real to me.  I heard their voices.  I knew their thoughts.  They literally guided my hands through the process.

One of your characters I found intriguing was Mark's grandmother. I knew when reading this book this character was personal for you. So, tell us more about your 'Gramma' -- Miss Georgia?

My grandmother was an amazing woman, and I wanted to capture her essence and pay tribute to her in this work.  She never got to read the book, but she did read the acknowledgments.  I remember sitting in her living room in North Carolina as she held the book in her tiny hands.  She was very proud of me.  “I can’t read all dese words, but I read what you said about me.  That was very nice,” she said.  That alone was all the validation I needed as a writer.

Let’s talk about your writing process: are you character-driven by allowing your characters to guide you? Or taming the storyline by being plot-driven?

I’d have to say that I am character-driven.  Most times the characters dictate the story.  I typically don’t begin writing knowing where a story is going to go.  I just relax into it and let it unfold.  My characters have a mind of their own.  I will say that there are times that I literally skip chapters because a character has advanced the story well beyond where the other characters exist.  In those times, I simply go where I’m told and then go back and fill in the gaps.  It’s a crazy process, but it seems to work.

You’ve also written books centered around social issues; such as, LGBT romance, HIV/AIDS, and sexual abuse. Why are these topics important to you?

I try to be as authentic as possible in my writing.  In staying true to who I am, I often write about things that I know or things that I’m passionate about.  You’ve mentioned a number of those things above.  I am a gay man who believes in love, so I write LGBT romance.  I have lost a friends and family to complications of HIV/AIDS, so I want to pay tribute to them and make people aware of this disease.  HIV/AIDS is not the death sentence it used to be.  Lastly, I’m very transparent about my own experience with sexual abuse.  I was in therapy for many years dealing with the repercussions of abuse.  Many people never seek help.  I write about abuse to let people know how it effects the victim, and to raise awareness.  I love children.  Sexual abuse is one of the most traumatic experiences a child can endure.  They deserve better.  They deserve to be children.

I know you're living the life that some dream of having, but when you first 'came out", what was the reception you've received from your family and friends? And how is it now?

I'd like to say that coming out was a positive experience, but quite frankly it wasn't.  When it's been ingrained in you since early childhood that you are an abomination and going to hell, it's hard to reverse the effects of those teachings.  Coming out for me was a long process.  I didn't come to terms with my sexuality until I was well into my 30s.  In the process, I had varying reactions and emotions.  My mother found out when I was in high school, and outed me to my entire family out her own hurt and anger.  She looked in my face and said, "If you want to be a woman, then be one.  Why hide it?"  Many people, my mother included, think that being gay is about wanting to be the opposite sex.  That is the furthest from the truth for me.  I love being a man; I just happen to also love men. The remainder of my family never really talked about my sexuality, and I was fine with that. 

              

Fast forward a few years...I was a college graduate and living on my own.  To this day, many of my family members remain silent on my sexuality.  They all know, but there's never a conversation about who I'm dating or anything like that.  I think a large part of that has to do with my perceived success.  I'm from a small town, and in their minds I've "made it."  I think there is some intimidation on their part. They know how vocal I am, and dare not say anything to incite me.   On the other hand, there are a few family members who are fine with my sexuality and love me unconditionally.

I've been blessed to have friends who love me for who I am.  I do feel that I have to compartmentalize my friends.  As I said, I have some who love me for who I am, and then there are others who feel it is a choice and that I can be delivered from this somehow.  I used to readily discard folk who believed this way, but it was such a waste of energy.  We simply agree to disagree.  The way I see it, they have two choices—love me, or leave me.  I'm not changing.  I'm comfortable in my own skin.  I'm openly gay, and very vocal about it.  I will continue to be vocal until sexuality becomes a non-issue.

 Your much anticipated, upcoming novel, Darkness, has already gripped my attention. For those who don’t know, share a little sneak peek of this important novel.

Imani, if I’m honest, this project is a struggle.  I’ve had the idea for a few years now, but have yet to put anything on paper.  When that happens, I simply have to wait until I’m directed.  I know it’s something that I will complete, but I don’t know the premise or when.  All I know is that Darkness will be a book about my own struggle with depression.  Recently I wrote an article for Proud Times about my experience.  I’ll share a portion of that with you:

At a glance, I have the ideal life:  I am a Senior Property Manager at the largest owner/manager of commercial properties in the Washington, DC region.  I own my own editing firm, and have a thriving writing career.  I own my own home; I drive a luxury car.  I also have some of the greatest friends any person could ask for.  While I seem to have the life that many would dream of, there are times when I am overcome with sadness.  Often during these times, I find myself crying for no apparent reason.

My symptoms first surfaced when my mother unexpectedly passed away.  I have always been the person whom everyone in my family relied on to handle business.  When my grandmother died in 2006, I assumed the role relegated to me.  The same was expected when my mother passed away three years later.  After the funeral, I returned to Maryland—business as usual.  I had moments of sadness as I grieved the loss of my mother, but something was different.  I’d suffered loss before, but this pain went beyond loss.  I cried for no reason.  I found excuses to not be social.  I would stay in bed all weekend with the curtains drawn.

One day as I was driving in to work, tears began to stream down my face.  I couldn’t figure out why I was crying.  I decided to see a therapist.  At our appointment, I shared with her all I was going through.  “J’son, you have endured great loss.  I would like to suggest that you see your primary care physician.  I think you need something to take the edge off of what you’re feeling as you work through your pain,” she said.  I was completely against medication.  I didn’t want to walk around like a zombie.  After all, only crazy people took medication, right? 

At my doctor’s appointment, I tried to hide my sadness, but my doctor saw through it.  He insisted something was wrong because I wasn’t my usual “smiley” self.  I finally shared with him that I had recently lost my mother, and that I was feeling unusually sad.  I also shared with him what my therapist had said.  He praised me for going to therapy, and for the first time the word “depression” was used… 

I want to continue on the subject of depression. Explain to the readers on how debilitating the illness is, and why “praying-it-away” isn’t that simple?

Let me begin by saying that I believe my faith coupled with therapy is the reason I am able to cope with my depression.  The faith-based community would have you believe that you can pray everything away.  I am not of the same mindset.  I think that mentality is killing people.  Prayer is one of the most powerful weapons we have, but there’s a lot to be said for therapy and medicine (if warranted).  Depression, especially in the black community, is like a dirty little secret.  We need to get beyond this stigma if we are going to heal ourselves.  We are taught not to tell our business, so we often don’t seek therapy for our issues.  Further, black people tend to have a lot of fears surrounding medication.  Let’s be real, we have every right to be as evidenced by the Tuskegee syphilis experiment, for example.  Historically, we don’t trust medication, and we don’t trust white folks to prescribe it to us.  I believe God led me to my therapist, and I’m a huge proponent of therapy, and medicine when needed.  I’m not ashamed to say that I’ve utilized both.  People think you are crazy if you see a therapist; I think you’re crazy if you don’t.

So how are you feeling today?

I still suffer with bouts of depression, but I am more readily able to recognize the symptoms and do the things I need to do to get better.  I recently went back on medication as I felt the “darkness” looming again.  I couple that with an exercise program, and I feel great!

I’ve mentioned earlier how you center your stories around social issues, including sexual abuse. As a survivor, what advice do you have for individuals who’ve dealt with the lingering effects, but feel too ashamed to seek help?

First of all, I’d like them to know that what happened to them was not their fault.  For many years, I blamed myself for the sexual abuse I endured.  I remember telling my therapist how I seduced my abusers.  My eyes were opened when she said to me that I did what I was taught.  As a child I didn’t have the capacity to seduce.  So I was finally able to release the guilt and shame I harbored.  Talk to someone about your pain.  Therapy may not be an option for everyone, but talking about things goes a long way in healing your heart and mind.

You’re a man of many talents – author, actor, and now add editor to your resume. Describe your flourishing business, Sweet Georgia Press and its mission?

Sweet Georgia Press is a multi-dynamic publishing and editing firm based in Baltimore, Maryland. Established in 2012, we hit the ground running with an eye for detail and commitment to professionalism.  From short stories to full novels, we focus on ensuring writing of the highest quality. We work with authors on their own terms, with an emphasis on best practices. 

I have had the pleasure of working with some amazing authors like Michelle “Big Body” Cuttino, Deidra Ds Green, Ben Burgess Jr., Keisha Green, Rashea Baldwin, Andrea Ryan, M.T. Pope, and many others.

Imani, although my grandmother is gone, I still want to make her proud.  Sweet Georgia Press is dedicated to her memory.  This company is an extension of her legacy.  I hope to leave behind the same legacy of love, integrity and compassion.

We all have that special someone that made an impression on our craft. Who is this person(s), and what would you say to them if they were here?

So many people have made an impression on me, but two people immediately come to mind—Monique Thomas and Mark Williams. 

Monique, thank you for pushing me to finish Just Tryin’ To Be Loved, and for challenging me to think beyond boundaries.  You are my muse and you make me see life and nature the way no one else can. 

Mark, thank you for saying, “You are bigger than a short story.”  Had you not said that, I would have settled.  You showed me that I hadn’t even tapped into my talent.

Finally, what are the top five things on your bucket list?

That’s a great question.  Here they are, in no particular order:

1)      I want to fall in love and get married.

2)      I want to be able to take some extended time off and travel the world.

3)      I want to launch my own greeting card line.  This is actually in the works!

4)      I want to retire early.

5)      I want to meet Michael Strahan.  I’d settle for him being #1. 

Thank you, J’son! This has been an insightful interview that I know will help someone. If readers would like to know more about you and your work, or seeking an editor, where should they go online?

To learn more about me and/or my works, please visit my website at www.jmccoylee.com.  I’m also on Facebook www.facebook.com/jmccoylee.  If someone is seeking an editor or editing advice, please check me out at www.sweetgeorgiapress.com.  

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Delia Wynne: The New York Southerner

Delia Wynne is a native New Yorker with the gift for words. She made her debut in May 2014 as an author with her novel titled, Hope’s End – a story many know all too well of domestic violence, drug abuse, and depression.

I've met Delia a few months ago as she was promoting her novel online. ‘Quiet, but fiery with passion’ was my initial impression. The more we exchanged pleasantries, the more I wanted to know her story – and reading Hope’s End only furthered my curiosity for this character-driven novelist.

It was an honor to hear her speak with candor in The Lounge. What she conveyed, I’m sure many authors and readers can relate. 

Imani: Delia, thank you for joining me in The Pink Lounge -- welcome. Let me ask you this question, something different from what I ask my guest: Tell the readers more about you and the type of work you write.

Delia: Thanks so much for having me. I am a native New Yorker now happily living in the South. Ironically, I place almost all of my stories outside of my own settings. They are stories of women attempting to overcome barriers and great odds. Sometimes, by the final page, they do succeed. Oftentimes, there is a twist that comes along with whatever resolution they end up with. One common thread in all of my stories, though, is that they are always character-driven. Their decisions and actions move the plots forward, not the other way around.

Imani: When did that epiphany hit you and you realized you were a writer?

Delia: I realized it pretty young- by the time I was twelve, I was already writing novellas. Before that, I was very imaginative, daydreaming all of the time. My childhood caused an “anywhere but here” mentality in me, so I created different worlds to live in. That gave me a lot of practice when I started to seriously plot novels. Once I was out of my teens, I concluded that other people may want to read this stuff and that maybe I could do it professionally.

Imani: What's your methodology of a solid storyline?

Delia: A solid storyline of mine always contains a likely threat of disaster. Too often I’ve read novels, especially literary ones, where I am bored stiff because there is clearly nothing that can or will harm what the author is describing. Everything is too pat. When I am plotting a storyline, I always make sure that there is something that can wreck the characters’ lives, whether that is a hurricane, an extramarital affair, or a bankruptcy. This will always be the main plot, and of course, a good storyline is always comprised of scenes that absolutely function, whether they are to advance the plot or deepen characterization- no filler allowed.

Imani: Let's talk about your book, "Hope's End" and the wayward teen, Frances Mitchell. It's a powerful read; especially, how you centered the focal point on a host of important issues -- domestic violence, alcoholism, and drug abuse. But the honesty you have put forth for Frances, bearing the darkness of clinical depression, is all too real for many. Please tell the readers the importance of writing this character dealing with these issues.

Delia: I think it’s always important to address uncomfortable issues such as these in fiction. Wounds heal best out in the open. The fact remains that domestic violence is all too common, and too many people are self-medicating themselves, like Frances does, with drugs and alcohol when they have a diagnosable mental disorder. As for clinical depression, this may be the most taboo of all subjects, especially in the black community. It’s just not taken seriously enough. Most people think to be suffering a mental illness, one has to be -an axe-wielding maniac or drooling at the mouth. Clinical depression is not treated as the grave, uncontrollable disease that it is, which is a tragedy. Another relative issue I’d like to bring up is everyone’s ignorance of Frances’s condition. Lots of times people in reality, too, fail to recognize the symptoms of depression until it is too late. It often takes a suicide attempt, a drug overdose, or worse, for people to realize that something is really wrong with their loved one.

Most people think to be suffering a mental illness, one has to be -an axe-wielding maniac or drooling at the mouth. Clinical depression is not treated as the grave, uncontrollable disease that it is, which is a tragedy. Another relative issue I’d like to bring up is everyone’s ignorance of Frances’s condition. Lots of times people in reality, too, fail to recognize the symptoms of depression until it is too late. It often takes a suicide attempt, a drug overdose, or worse, for people to realize that something is really wrong with their loved one.

Imani: When I read the book, I don't know how many times I said, "Yep! I can relate; I've been in 'Frances Mitchell' shoes. As a writer, where did the inspiration of this character had come from?

Delia: Frances’s character is symbolic of several themes. When I wrote Hope’s End, I was suffering through a depression, myself. I decided to express my anguish, disgust, hurt, and anger through a novel. This is why I think the read is so powerful, it came from my imagination, yes, but it also came from the heart. The original title of the book was in fact, ‘Out of Rage’, as Frances represents of all those terrible feelings I was having. She is both pain and hope personified. It may not be lost on readers, either, that this is a modern-day retelling of Cinderella, since she’s rescued from an abysmal situation by a prince-like suitor and lives happily- at least for a while. The twists towards the end of the book is, in part, what separates it from the classic tale, though.

Imani: Without expressing too much of the plot, what made you decide the twist?

Delia: Well, I love irony, especially in my own work. Life is unpredictable and sometimes unfair. But even if it does even out, resolutions aren’t always satisfying. I like for my art to imitate that fact of life, and frankly, I also like to jolt my readers. I feel it makes for a more unforgettable reading experience and doesn’t compromise realism, in fact it reinforces it.

Imani: What you know as an author now, meaning the common mistakes new and self-published authors make. If you can go back in time to meet yourself as a novice writer, what advice would you give yourself?

Delia: Honestly, I am still learning. I don’t consider myself a new writer anymore, but I’m far from an experienced veteran. The one thing that I’d tell my past self is to work harder at promotion, because I spent a lot of time thinking that sales would just fall into my lap, then I became discouraged when that didn't happen. Promotion takes almost as much effort as writing, itself, does.

I don’t consider myself a new writer anymore, but I’m far from an experienced veteran. The one thing that I’d tell my past self is to work harder at promotion, because I spent a lot of time thinking that sales would just fall into my lap, then I became discouraged when that didn't happen. Promotion takes almost as much effort as writing, itself, does.

Imani: Where do see your career standing in five years?

Delia: I hope to see Hope’s End exposed to a whole lot more people. Of course, I’d like to have several more books out there doing well, and I do have other stories to tell. But I’d ultimately love to see Hope’s End reach the level of Push/Precious, or The Color Purple.

Imani: Do you have any projects you are currently working on, or any new releases you would like to share? And if it's a new release, please share a brief description of the story and its characters?

Delia: My latest story is an Urban Lit effort named Brie & Dallas. It’s about a former streetwalker that helps her ex-pimp through a life-threatening crisis. The main question is whether they can live together clean and square, or will their old habits get the better of them. It’s less serious and more freewheeling than Hope’s End. There is a lot of authentic, graphic content in this book, but I decided not to use the same bleak mood that I did in Hope’s End. Brie & Dallas is a more straightforward, action-focused tale.

Imani: Finally, tell us one thing you haven't shared with your readers. It can be a quirk, a favorite food, or a hidden talent. The floor is yours.

Delia: I’m an amateur comic book artist and have my own graphic novel called Track Star. I’m obsessed with track and field, so I came up with a story about a gorgeous sprinter who has a glamorous life and jet-setting career. It’s a hobby and a labor of love.

Imani: Fascinating! Will you pursue this avenue in comics someday?

Delia: No, it’s just something I like to read back and enjoy myself, but I never mind showing it off to interested people.

Imani: Delia, thank you for stopping by The Lounge. I had a blast. Tell the readers where they can purchase your work, as well as finding you on the web?

 Delia: Sure. Hope’s End is available in print and as an ebook at http://www.amazon.com/Hopes-End-Delia-Wynne/dp/149959383X, and on Barnes & Noble at http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/hopes-end-delia-wynne/1119964927?ean=9781499593839. Brie & Dallas is available at http://www.amazon.com/Brie-Dallas-Delia-Wynne-ebook/dp/B00O2MJ6EI.

People can email at any time at deediwynne@gmail.com.

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5 WAYS TO STAY MOTIVATED DURING SEASONAL CHANGES

By Danica Worthy

With all you've been through are you looking for ways to stay motivated? 

If so I have developed some tips that will help you navigate through your life's journey.

We have approach a new season this year; autumn. A time of full maturity,  or it's early decline. During this season the atmosphere changes it's appearance allowing one to appreciate a different type of beauty.

Gazing upon natures new aura take a moment and think of the changes you have experienced over the year. You may be moving to a new job, launching a new business, or restructuring an existing one. Whatever the project is it takes time and effort and along the way you can and will lose motivation.

So here is how I've been able to stay motivated as season changes and obstacles come.

1. Find your passion= Finding your purpose.

I can't say this enough find what your most passionate about doing and DO IT. The thing that brings you the most euphoric joy when your in the midst of it. Ask yourself how does doing what I love empower me and those I come in contact with. Finally ask yourself what tangible benefits will I see by doing what I love.

2. Build your confidence muscle.

This is a big one not everyone was born with the solid I am the bomb diggity muscle. Look in the mirror daily and feed yourself with positive affirmations this is a great way to believe in yourself and silence the negative enemy in your mind. Conduct a life assessment review all the things you've been through,  you will discover a strength bridge that brought you over.

3. Keep gaining experience.

As you conduct your life audit become aware of your skill set. What are you an expert at? Learn your skill by doing whatever you desire to do get out there and do it. Don't wait for opportunities create them and watch opportunities find you. Take courses that will expand your knowledge and invest in yourself.  I almost forgot connect with what resonates with you.

4. Build a support system

Connections are great when they leave you feeling empowered, inspired, and ready to take action. Find those who have been where you're trying to go and build a relationship.  Bring something to the table because in any relationship you must give and not only take.

5. Take joy in your journey.

With all your plans and dreams don't forget to experience joy. Have fun knowing that all roads lead to opportunity and more creation. Detach from how you think things should be and just enjoy the ride.

Connect with me on facebook for more post like these https://m.facebook.com/DanicaInspiresTheInspirationalist?ref=bookmark

Danica Nichole Worthy was born and raised in Rochester, NY. She is a spoken word artist, poet, writer, motivator, and inspirationalist. Danica was created to inspire others to excellence. A counselor specializing in substance abuse/mental health and spiritual counseling, she is a Humanitarian, and a member of several charitable organizations. Danica N. Worthy has been writing since the age of fourteen. Her messages are of hope, love, and the ability to succeed inspite of your circumstances. Danica has co-hosted "Straight to Truth", blog talk radio show, focusing on on relationship building. Worthy is currently working on a poetic anthology, her debut novel, and a book of inspirational poetry.  

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TRAPPED WITH MY EYES WIDE OPEN

Trapped in darkness with my eyes wide open
Feeling around like a lost little girl
in the vast, emptiness of this cruel world

Sadness is not defined by my blank stare
or the tears streaming down my face
staining my curly black hair
or the anxiety I feel in my heart
numbing paralysis
feeling like my soul is drifting apart

It’s an indescribable emotion
that some may not understand
They tell you to snap out of it
or just to bow your head with
praying hands

Unrealistic effortless emotion
is surreal is like a purple sun
Metastasize like a tumor
from your mind to your tongue

A whirlwind spinning out of control
falling rapidly in a deep black hole
You fight for every breath
even though your soul is alive
Suffocating intently
as you began to panic and cry

Wanting break free from this
Spiritual cancer
Shackling me down
where I can’t see the answer
Fearing of what lies ahead
through the darkness of
uncertainty
Needing to move on,
Needing to break free
Needing to once again to be
me

Trapped with my eyes wide open
Squirming away from the spiritual
adversary hold
Lingering for a new day
for this bruised and
tattered soul

Speculation is an old innovation
of trapped minds
Desolation is mere dust
envelop by the cruel hand
of time

My steps are as valiant
as lavender spring flowers
Revitalization is my essential
superpower

Sometimes the somberness
will always be a part me
Yet, the darkness….
will never, ever, defeat
me!

© 2009, Imani Wisdom

Pink Noire Publications, LLC

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