Guest Author: Grace Valentine and Your Story Isn't Over Yet

Dear Readers,

I apologize--this was first published without an introduction from me--I may be overwhelmed with my job. I truly value my guests and am excited to share Grace Valentine with my readers. Blessings everyone and I pray that everyone has a stress-free week (or at least the grace to handle what comes your way! Christina

Hi there! I'm Grace and I am from Singapore. I live in Montreal, Canada, with my amazing firefighter husband and our beautiful daughter who soon turns 11. 

Something people notice when they meet me? Well, I met with my publisher last year (first time in person). He said, "The grace of God shines in your face."

I was truly grateful, deeply encouraged, and very humbled by that statement. The reason for my countenance is Jesus—my Redeemer. When people meet me, they notice my smile, hopeful attitude, and cheerful disposition. They say I don't look like what I've been through. This is only because of the hope, love, peace, and confidence I've found in Jesus. In the ups and downs of life, He has been my strength and refuge. 

My book is a memoir which will be released in October this year. 

Title:

Your Story Isn't Over Yet

'Your Story Isn't Over Yet' is a true story depicting hope, miracles, pain, trauma, loss, perseverance, faith, forgiveness, courage, healing, love, and new beginnings. 

A redemption story that portrays the unconditional love, divine favor, and sovereignty of God.

A book that touches on painful topics pertaining to abuse, trauma, and heartbreak. 

God can turn things around. He gives us beauty for ashes. He has the final say. Find out more when you read my memoir!

One of the difficulties I faced while writing this book was the challenge of having to recall certain events of my life. It sometimes felt like I was re-living some of those painful and traumatic experiences in order to write about them authentically. I had to process all the emotions again and put them in words—but this time as a healed mature adult, mother, wife, and author. 

Questions for the blog reader:

Can you tell me about 3 embarrassing or silly incidents in your life as a child, teenager, and adult?

My own answers:

(Child)

When I was 12, I followed my mom to a church ladies retreat in a nice, fancy hotel. While we were having lunch in the ballroom, I stepped out to use the lavatory. When I returned, two male hotel staff by the door turned to look at me specifically. For some reason, I thought they were admiring me because they found me cute. 

However, as I reached my table and began to flatten and smooth down my dress before sitting down, I realized that my dress had been stuck at waist level. I had walked from the lavatory all the way to the ballroom with my undergarment exposed. I was so embarrassed! I did not turn around to look back after that moment. I sat still the entire time and just wanted to disappear!

(Teen)

I was going out one day dressed really nicely. As I was walking, a group of teenagers (male & female) were coming toward my direction. I felt confident that day and was trying to look cool while walking. I was also trying not to be awkward in any way as I was going through a phase of being self-conscious as a teenager. 

Unfortunately, as I got closer to them, I suddenly tripped hard and almost fell. I felt so embarrassed and couldn't escape the situation. I had no choice but to pretend to check the sole of my shoe, and continued walking with a straight face. I was crying deep inside of me. Cringe indeed! 

(Adult)

I went out for lunch one afternoon in Singapore. As I was walking past a crowded street, I noticed an elderly fortune-teller sitting by the pavement. She wanted to read my palm and kept gesturing for me to come closer. I politely refused and continued walking.  She then looked at me and with a loud voice exclaimed, "You were supposed to be born as a man, but you turned out to be a woman instead!"

People turned to look at me. I was upset and wanted to say something back to the woman. I knew it wasn't worth my time though. I therefore walked away feeling flustered. I thought about it the next day and it made me laugh out loud. I still giggle when I think about it after all these years. 

Here is the link for my Facebook author page. My aim is to uplift, inspire, and encourage others through my writings and posts—touching lives for Jesus. Here is the link:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61554225796285&mibextid=ZbWKwL

This is the pre-order link for my memoir:

https://ambassadorintl.square.site/product/preorder-your-story-isn-t-over-yet/624

Thank you so much!