by Cyrus Webb
Dr. Norma McLauchlin is LIVING the name of her company Chosen Pen. She is not only a gifted writer herself. She has opened up the doors to so many others when it comes to not just sharing their work with the world but given them opportunities to shine along the way.
One of the big themes she has explored in fiction and non-fiction is that of forgiveness. In fact, in her new children's book MARTIN'S HEART we see how through the example of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. we can all apply the power and importance of forgiveness in our lives.
On a personal note, I am indebted to Dr. Norma for seeing me and the work I do, nominating me for the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award in 2024. Just another example of what she does for others.
Enjoy our conversation.
Looking at 2024, what were some of the highlights for you? In 2024, I experienced a transformative year filled with significant milestones and personal growth. One of the most notable highlights was the successful publication of four bestselling books, including titles such as "Forgiveness is Freedom", "The Forgiveness Game", and Healing Plates". Each of these books is designed to empower readers on their personal journeys and is complemented by accompanying spiritual growth workbooks, which provide practical exercises and reflective prompts. For instance, one workbook includes a 30-day gratitude challenge that has helped readers cultivate a more positive mindset, resulting in improved mental health, emotional well-being, and forgiveness. A particularly heartwarming moment for me was when my son, daughter-in-law, and grandchildren each became authors this year, passing on my legacy of storytelling and empowerment. Their books reflect their unique experiences and perspectives, and it has been incredibly fulfilling to witness the next generation embracing the written word as a means of expression and connection. I take immense pride in knowing that my passion for writing and inspiring others has inspired my family to share their voices with the world. I also had the honor of hosting a weekend conference for caregivers, sponsored by Kansas AARP. This event brought together over 100 caregivers from various backgrounds, providing them with valuable resources, support, and connection. Participants reported feeling more equipped to handle the challenges of caregiving and expressed gratitude for the community they found at the conference. The impact of this event was evident, as many attendees formed lasting support networks. Additionally, I had the incredible opportunity to host panels for both Forbes and TEDx, engaging with thought leaders and innovators in discussions centered around personal growth, resilience, and the power of forgiveness. These experiences not only expanded my network but also allowed me to facilitate meaningful conversations that inspire change and promote understanding. As the year came to a close, I had the privilege of hosting a literacy and presidential awards ceremony, where we celebrated individuals and authors that have made significant contributions to promoting literacy in our communities. This event highlighted the importance of literacy and community impact. It was rewarding to recognize several local literacy programs for their outstanding work. The outcome was a renewed commitment from attendees to support literacy initiatives, with many pledging to volunteer or donate to local programs. Throughout the year, I engaged in various workshops and speaking engagements, connecting with individuals eager to embrace forgiveness and personal growth. One memorable workshop focused on the theme of "Healing Through Forgiveness," where participants shared their stories of overcoming personal hardships. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with many attendees reporting breakthroughs in their emotional healing and relationships. Overall, 2024 has been a year of impactful connections, profound insights, and a deepening commitment to uplifting others through my work. Challenges come to us all. What helped you not to be defined by the things that didn't go your way? Life's challenges are often seen as setbacks, but I choose to view them as valuable learning experiences. For instance, when I faced difficulties in promoting my books early in the year, I took the opportunity to refine my marketing strategies. I sought feedback from peers and implemented new techniques, such as engaging in virtual book clubs and collaborating with influencers. This not only improved my reach but also fostered relationships within the literary community. Maintaining a growth mindset has been pivotal; whenever I faced adversity, I reflected on the lessons learned rather than dwelling on the negatives. For example, after a speaking engagement that didn't go as planned, I took the time to evaluate what went wrong and sought constructive criticism. This led to significant improvements in my presentation skills and ultimately resulted in more successful engagements. Surrounding myself with a strong support network of friends, family, and mentors also provided encouragement and perspective. Their insights helped me stay focused on my goals and reminded me that resilience is built through overcoming obstacles. By sharing my experiences with them, I found comfort in knowing that I was not alone in my struggles, which further fueled my determination to push forward.
Part of your platform is to motivate and inspire others. What was it like for you to see how your work has had an impact on the lives of others? Seeing the positive impact of my work is one of the most rewarding aspects of what I do. I've received heartfelt messages from individuals who have found the courage to pursue their dreams after attending my events or reading my materials. For example, a young woman shared how my book on resilience inspired her to start her own business after facing significant challenges in her personal life. It's stories like hers that remind me of the power of inspiration. I'm particularly excited about the expansion of my "Forgiveness Across Borders" platform, which aims to promote healing and understanding both in our country and internationally. Through workshops, seminars, and collaborative events, I've connected with diverse audiences eager to embrace forgiveness as a tool for personal and communal growth. One of the most moving aspects has been working with fatherless boys who have taken the courageous step to forgive their fathers. Witnessing these young men fill their hearts with love and compassion has led to significant improvements in their overall lifestyles, such as better academic performance and healthier relationships. Knowing that I play a part in fostering this dialogue and encouraging healing on such a broad scale motivates me to continue my efforts in inspiring and uplifting others. The tangible outcomes of my work such as improved mental health through forgiveness, stronger community ties, and personal transformations reinforce my commitment to this mission. You use words to convey your thoughts. When did you realize the power of words for yourself? My realization of the power of words came during my early writing experiences. I vividly remember writing my first short story in high school; it was a cathartic release that allowed me to express my emotions and connect with others. When I shared it with my friends, I was amazed at how my words could evoke emotions and spark conversations. This realization deepened when I began sharing my writing publicly and received feedback from readers who resonated with my stories. For instance, after publishing my first book, I received numerous letters from readers who shared how my words helped them navigate their own challenges. The ability to inspire, comfort, and provoke thought through words is a gift I cherish, and it motivates me to continue using my voice for positive change. Additionally, during workshops, I've witnessed firsthand how powerful storytelling can be. Participants often share their own narratives, and I see the healing and connection that occurs when they do so. This reinforces my belief in the transformative power of communication and the importance of sharing our stories. I am under the belief that we all have a voice that needs to be heard. What has helped you to share your voice with the world? Embracing my authenticity has been key to sharing my voice. I've learned that vulnerability fosters connection, and I strive to be open about my experiences and struggles. For example, during a recent speaking engagement, I shared my personal journey through grief and forgiveness. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with many attendees expressing gratitude for my honesty and sharing their own experiences in return. Engaging in public speaking has helped me feel more comfortable expressing my thoughts. I've participated in numerous panels and conferences, where I've had the opportunity to connect with diverse audiences. The encouragement I've received from my community and peers has also bolstered my confidence, empowering me to share my message without hesitation. One memorable instance was at a literacy event where I spoke about the importance of education and personal growth. The audience's engagement and the connections made that day were incredibly rewarding. Social media has also played a significant role in amplifying my voice. Platforms like Instagram and Facebook allow me to share my thoughts and engage in meaningful conversations with followers. By consistently posting motivational content and sharing personal stories, I've been able to create a supportive online community that encourages dialogue and connection. Social media is something all of us use. How has it helped you to reach your audience? Social media has been an invaluable tool for outreach and engagement. Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter allow me to share my insights and connect with a diverse audience. For instance, I've hosted live Q&A sessions where followers can ask questions about personal development and forgiveness. The immediate interaction fosters a sense of community, making my audience feel more connected to my work. I utilize these platforms to share motivational content, personal stories, and updates on my initiatives. One successful campaign involved a series of posts focusing on mental health awareness, where I encouraged followers to share their stories. The response was heartwarming, with many individuals expressing how sharing their experiences helped them feel less isolated. The interactive nature of social media also enables me to receive feedback and engage in meaningful conversations. For example, after a recent workshop, I created a survey to gather insights on attendees' experiences. The feedback I received not only helped me improve future workshops but also allowed me to engage with participants on a deeper level, creating a sense of belonging. Many people finished 2024 with uncertainty and even fear. What advice would you give them about keeping optimism with the new year? I understand that uncertainty can be daunting, but I encourage everyone to focus on what they can control and take small, actionable steps toward their goals. For instance, setting short-term goals can create a sense of accomplishment and motivate individuals to keep moving forward. One effective strategy I often suggest is the practice of daily affirmations. By starting each day with positive affirmations, individuals can cultivate a mindset of resilience and hope. Surrounding yourself with supportive people who inspire and uplift you is also crucial. In my own life, I've seen the difference that a positive support system can make. I encourage people to seek out friends, family, or community groups that share their values and aspirations. Additionally, engaging in volunteer work can provide a sense of purpose and connection, helping to combat feelings of isolation. Practicing gratitude is another powerful tool. I often recommend keeping a gratitude journal where individuals can write down three things they are thankful for each day. This simple practice can shift focus from what's lacking to the positives in life, creating a more optimistic outlook. Remember, every new year brings new opportunities, and it's important to stay open to them. What are you looking forward to when it comes to 2025? In 2025, I look forward to expanding my outreach efforts and launching new initiatives focused on mental health and well-being. I'm particularly excited about developing a series of workshops tailored for underserved communities, providing them with resources and tools to navigate their challenges. Additionally, I am eager to collaborate with other organizations to amplify our impact, creating a network of support that fosters healing and empowerment. I also plan to continue my journey as an author, with the hope of publishing more works that inspire and empower others. My goal is to write a book specifically addressing the challenges faced by fatherless boys and how forgiveness can play a crucial role in their healing process. I believe this book can serve as a valuable resource for both young men and their caregivers. Most importantly, I look forward to nurturing the connections I've made over the past year and seeing how we can collectively uplift our communities. I am committed to creating spaces where individuals can share their stories and support one another, fostering a culture of empathy and understanding. Thanks for all you do. How can our audience stay connected with you? Thank you for your kind words! I appreciate the support from everyone. You can stay connected with me through my social media channels: - Instagram: www.instagram.com/mclauchlinnorma/ - Twitter: www.twitter.com/NormaMcLauchlin - My website: www.normamclauchlin.com I regularly post updates, motivational content, and upcoming events, and I love engaging with my audience! Additionally, I encourage everyone to reach out and share their own stories. I'm always eager to hear from you!
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