In November 2023, PAJE Media Group LLC established the PAJE People's Choice Awards to highlight the hard work done by members of the Kingdom from Caribbean nations in ten specific categories:
ARTISTE OF THE MONTH
AUTHOR OF THE MONTH
CREATIVE REPRESENTATIVE OF THE MONTH
DANCER, DANCE MINISTRY OR COMPANY OF THE MONTH
ENTREPRENEUR OR BUSINESS OF THE MONTH
MEDIA PERSONALITY OR SHOW OF THE MONTH
MEDIA OR MUSIC PRODUCER OF THE MONTH
MINISTRY OR OUTREACH OF THE MONTH
MUSICIAN OF THE MONTH
SUPPORTING CREATIVE OF THE MONTH
Initially established as a monthly venture and now a quarterly venture, PAJE collected 38 nominations from around the Caribbean, and held the voting exercises from November 10 - 20, 2023. After a very close race in all ten categories, the winners were announced.
Now, let's hear from the Author of the Month (recognized for work done in October 2023), Marjaalaine Francis!
PAJE: 'Marjaalaine', what a beautiful name! In your own words, WHO is Marjaalaine Francis?
Marjaalaine: Marjaalaine is a multidimensional Jesus girl who is grateful for the capacities in which she gets to connect with and serve others in her role as Author, Life Coach, Social Worker, Radio Host, Youth Empowerment Facilitator and Mentor.
PAJE: Tell us, what was the journey like for you becoming a published Author?
Marjaalaine: Embracing the idea of becoming a published author, I embarked on the journey to write about the effects of growing up with an absentee father. Initially, I was reluctant to write, to be vulnerable with some of my experiences. However, after I understood that this was bigger than my personal apprehensions, I became open to sharing, more optimistic about the impact the book could have. I wrote to bring greater awareness to the effects of absentee fathers on daughters, the significance of fathers and the power of forgiveness.
Along the way, there were external factors and naysayers, but understanding the 'why' behind publishing the book kept me anchored. I was fortunate to have a circle of friends who offered unwavering support and a publisher who passionately committed to this project as if it were his own.
The process was transformative, teaching me invaluable lessons.
Although I aimed to complete the manuscript within a year, unforeseen circumstances, including a significant setback when my laptop crashed resulting in the loss of all my work, extended the timeline to three years. It was a joy to finally complete the manuscript, hand it over to the publisher for edit, see the book cover, receive my first shipment of book, engage in multiple sales and host a book launch. This journey was not just about writing a book, but also about personal growth, faith, obeying God and seeing a vision come to reality.
You can purchase a copy of her book here: https://amzn.to/3dn5kxe
PAJE: What would you say your writing process looked like for you in a step-by-step way?
Marjaalaine: My writing process was unique, it began with writing down the idea after having a conversation with colleagues who shared similar experiences of their absentee father. Following that, whenever inspiration came, I would jot down notes on my phone or on paper.
Prayer played a crucial role, there were times when there was no inspiration, but I knew I started a process, God expected me to complete. Hence, I would pray for inspiration and guidance. This not only centered my thoughts but also aligned my writing with a deeper purpose.
Once I’m in the right mindset, I compile the notes I jot down, from which the chapters evolved. I write and transfer my work to Google drive, this habit not only ensured my work is backed up but also allowed me to access and update my manuscript from anywhere.
I also shared parts of my manuscript with close friends for feedback, their insights were invaluable in refining my work. Finally, before submitting my manuscript for publication, I pray, hoping my work positively impacts readers. This journey was not just a task, but a fulfilling experience.
PAJE: What are the top 3 things about your relationship with God that have contributed to you remaining grounded in Him?
Marjaalaine: When reflecting on what keeps me grounded in my relationship with God, three key elements stand out. First, is the unwavering knowledge that God loves me unconditionally. This understanding provides a profound sense of security and peace, knowing that God’s love is constant, irrespective of my circumstances or actions.
Secondly, reading the Bible which serves as my daily guide for living. The teachings, stories, and principles offer direction and wisdom, helping me navigate through life’s complexities with faith and perseverance.
Lastly, the personal testimonies I have experienced from answered prayers. My lived experiences of God's grace and intervention, serve as powerful reminders of His presence and faithfulness. Answered prayers reinforce my trust in God and continually remind me of His active role in the life of His children. I have tasted and seen the goodness of God and I am eternally grateful for my personal relationship with God.
PAJE: Over the past 3 years, especially, many Christians have had their faith tested in multiple ways. What are the 3 biggest lessons you have learned in the last 3 years?
Marjaalaine: Over the past three years, my faith, like that of many Christians, has been tested in numerous ways. Reflecting on this period, I’ve learned three significant lessons. Firstly, I’ve learned that God is sovereign, and I am not. This realization has been humbling and profound. It means acknowledging that God’s plans and His understanding of the world far surpass my own. Embracing His sovereignty has taught me to trust in His grand design, even when my personal desires and understanding don't align with His ways. I learnt that it is I who need to align with the will of God.
Secondly, trusting God sometimes involves giving up what I perceive as the best. This lesson has been about stepping out of my comfort zone, realizing that true faith often requires taking risks and stepping into the unknown, firmly believing that God is with me. The plan of God for my life is in keeping with Ephesians 3:20 God is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us.
Lastly, I’ve learned the value of waiting on God. This waiting isn’t passive; it’s an active, faith-filled journey that builds my capacity and prepares me better for what He has in store for me. It’s about understanding that His timing is perfect and what I pray for will be fulfilled in His time, not mine. Waiting on God has been a transformative experience, teaching me patience, resilience, and deepening my faith. I have seen my God in and after “the wait” and I can truly say it is worth the wait. Listen, I use to be very impatient, I marvel at how God has worked the fruit of patience in me. I think my next book should be about waiting well.
PAJE: What would you say makes you unique or different as an Author?
Marjaalaine: My writing uniquely blends spiritual insights with practical life challenges. Drawing from my own experiences and faith journey, I offer readers a perspective that is both grounded in reality and directs them to God.
Also choosing to be vulnerable in my writing by sharing personal stories and struggles, especially regarding my journey dealing with the effects of an absentee father, allows me to connect with readers on a profound level, fostering relatability. I have had persons share with me how my book has helped them to heal, challenge them to forgive their father and even fathers choosing to be more present for their child.
PAJE: How would you describe your overall style of writing?
Marjaalaine: My overall style of writing can be best described as a fusion of descriptive and narrative techniques. When I write, it's about creating a world for my readers to step into and experience firsthand. I give attention to detail, readers can almost see, hear, and feel the environment and emotions.
Narratively, my writing flows like a journey leading the reader deeper into the story. My aim is to leave them not just satisfied with the tale but transformed by the journey. I have a vivid imagination; I like me a good story and when I write I want my readers to journey through the experience.
PAJE: When thinking of being an Author, what are the top 3 things that make you feel most fulfilled?
Marjaalaine: When I think of being an Author and knowing the transformative power of a book and being able to write material that people can connect with which offers a solution to a problem, I am humbled. Secondly, when persons share how my book has positively influenced their life, I experience a sense of joy I can’t explain. Also, the legacy I have had the privilege to create with a book that has reached persons across the globe in places that I have never been and the fact that my book will out live me and still impact lives long after I have exited this earth are some of the things that make me feel most fulfilled.
PAJE: What would you say to the person who has been given an idea by God but they're afraid to pursue it because they don't believe they're in a position to make it happen?
I have been in this position; I was hesitant to write my book ‘Call Him Daddy: A Daughter’s Journey to Connecting with and Forgiving an Absentee Father.’ I would say, first and foremost, write the idea down, documenting it not only makes it more tangible but also serves as the first step in bringing it to life. Write the vision and make it clear, seeing your idea in writing can be a powerful motivator and can help clarify your thoughts and intentions and give less room to fear.
Next, seek out accountability partners. These can be friends, family members, or even mentors who understand your vision and can offer support, encouragement, and guidance. Having people to share your journey with can help keep you focused, provide valuable feedback, and encourage you when you face challenges.
Most importantly, trust God to complete it. Remember, the idea was given to you for a reason, and with that comes the assurance that God will provide the means and opportunities for it to come to fruition. By writing down your idea, surrounding yourself with supportive persons, and placing your trust in God, you create a strong foundation to not only pursue the idea but to see it through successfully.
PAJE: Wow, this was so powerful, Marjaalaine - thank you! Before you go, do you have anything you'd like to say to encourage fellow Christian Authors?
Look out for more from Marjaalaine soon!
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