1. Please introduce yourself so that the readers will get to know you better.
Hello! My name is Natalie Lopez. I started writing down thoughts here and there when my boyfriend was shot and killed in 2018. I decided to publish it on my 24th birthday, two years later, because my boyfriend was 24 when he died. I am a special education teacher and will be receiving my masters soon!
2. What do you hope your readers take away from your book “The art of Healing”?
The main thing I want readers to take away from my book is that healing looks different for everyone but you are not the only person going through something. There are other people out there you can lean on. I hope at least one person is able to learn something from me and my process.
3. Who motivated you to release your diary to the world?
I was motivated to release my diary because I shared bits and pieces with my close friends and they made me feel like someone out there could benefit from my words and my feelings.
4. What do you like to do when you’re not writing?
I love to write and these days I have started jotting down some things that MAYBE will end up in my second book. However, if I am not writing, I like to watch movies, read, and spend time with family/friends.
5. Do you maintain a journal? If yes, how do you find time to write it?
I do maintain a journal. I use it for different purposes. I have a journal for my thoughts and feelings. I also have a journal that I use to keep up with my biblical plans. I find time to write in it by making time. Writing is therapeutic for me. I try to dedicate my mornings to my biblical plans and some time at night for my personal journaling.
6. What is your favorite Quote?
My favorite quote right now is “if someone makes you feel, let them” by Reyna Biddy. I think this is important because we can get so wrapped up in wanting to be alone when really we need to allow others to help us if they are willing.
7. Any relationship advice you want to give to your readers?
I want my readers to understand that love is a complicated thing. It is okay to fall in love with one person and then another. I also want my readers to know that pain and suffering is inevitable but healing is up to you. Forgive those that hurt you even if they don’t physically or verbally apologize. You owe it to yourself.
8. Who are your favorite living poets?
I love Reyna Biddy and Rupi Kaur. I read their books countless times for inspiration.
9. How do you come up with the cover of your book “The art of Healing”?
I worked with a friend to self-publish my book. Cheyenne made a few covers for me and sent me options. The cover that is on my book really captured what I had in mind. It is dark but comforting
10. Lastly, who is your inspiration in life and why?
I am my own inspiration in life. I don’t mean this in a cocky way. I have gone through a lot in my life and my boyfriend dying wasn’t even half of it. However, I always show up for myself. I protect myself. I allow myself to feel and grieve. I am a strong person and I am thankful that the only person I am trying to be better than is the person I was yesterday.
Author Name: Natalie Lopez
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