Today we’d like to introduce you to Sandy Stovall.
Hi Sandy, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My love for writing began at an early age. Writing was my way of expressing myself and releasing my internal pain. Growing up impoverished, facing many challenges, and overcoming numerous obstacles throughout my life nurtured that love for writing. I have experienced much devastation over the last 40 years and decided it was time to help others overcome their setbacks and struggles and conquer their fears.
Five years ago, I started writing I Am Every Woman, an In-depth Study of Women in the Bible. I knew that this book would transform lives, heal the brokenness many of us faced, and restore much of what was lost. My first book has been published, and I am beyond excited to share these women’s history, stories, and applications. I Am Every Woman is about 12 women of the Bible who faced obstacles, challenges, and setbacks in their lives, just as I have. These women were fighters, goal-setters, and leaders. I have written my testimonies at the end of each chapter, displaying how I can relate to them.
My book, I Am Every Woman, allows me to encourage, empower, and teach. I will conduct workshops teaching through the chapters, allowing women to look deeper within themselves. This self-reflection will be accomplished by discussing their histories and stories. The goal is to heal and rebuild so we can start fresh.
I plan to continue writing, conducting workshops, and using the gifts God has blessed me with to help those struggling with unresolved issues. My goal for the future is to have yearly I Am Every Woman conferences. I will use my voice to inspire women to find strength in God, never lose hope, and remain diligent in their pursuit of greatness.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
No, it has not been a smooth road. Some of the struggles along the way were a lack of resources, emotional distress, fighting back the desire to quit, and conquering feelings of hopelessness. My love for writing was overpowered at times by feelings of inadequacy. I didn’t believe I was good enough to become an author. Having to subdue those feelings and hold on to my faith while traveling on this road of uncertainty was tough. I conquered those emotions by praying, speaking positive affirmations about who I am in Christ, and changing my perspective on who and what I see in myself.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am co-pastor of our church, New Direction Family Life Center, in Rosenberg, TX. I have begun earning a Doctor of Education. I am mostly known for ministering, teaching God’s word, and encouraging and empowering men and women. My next literary project, a series of fiction books based on real-life events, is underway. Completing my first book and becoming a published author is my proudest moment. What sets me apart from others is that I have a unique way of taking all the hardships that life has dealt me and using them as a stepstool to move forward. Experiencing these hardships changed my perception of life and encouraged me to increase my prayers, study, and meditate consistently on God’s word. Viewing situations and problems from God’s perspective has given me hope that my life isn’t over. After changing my outlook, I’ve learned to release the pain and suffering I endured from the hardships and turn them into a source of hope and encouragement for others to learn, heal, and grow.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
Yes, I have taken several risks throughout my life. Self-publishing was a considerable risk because I did not have the money then. I took the chance because I believed I would prevail eventually. Being vulnerable by exposing parts of my life via my testimonies in the book was also a substantial risk. I knew showing my scars would always be risky. Would people accept, reject, or judge me was the concern I had. Taking risks will either strengthen or weaken you. The risks I have taken by self-publishing “I Am Every Woman” have given me the confidence that I can accomplish the goals I set for myself. No matter how difficult the journey is, I will prevail because I took a risk.
Pricing:
- $13.95 for the soft cover book
- $30.95 for the hard cover book
Contact Info:
- Website: www.sandyastovall.com
- Instagram: @sandyastovall
- Facebook: Sandy A. Stovall
- Twitter: @sandyastovall
Image Credits
Omar Auzenne
Kasey Smith
