Writing the Divine, by Sara Wiseman

Q: When did you start writing, and what inspired you to write?

A: I started writing at about age 8. I was so shy as a kid—I would literally run and hide if anyone came to the house. Writing was a way to express myself without having to talk to anyone!

Q: Where do you write?

A: I write at an enormous old oak desk on my enclosed front porch, overlooking a view of the Willamette River that changes with the seasons. My desk came from an old record shop in Seattle about 30 years ago—it’s a colossal, well-worn thing with deep drawers. Last time I was in Seattle doing a workshop at East West, I noticed the record store is still there!

Q: What's the best thing about being a published author?

A: When you are confused about what your next step is, or when the road gets particularly challenging, you can pick up your book, feel the heft of it in your hand, and say “well, if I did this, I can do whatever’s next.”

Q: Who are some of your favorite authors?

A: I read so much fiction for so long, it’s not on my radar now. Mostly, I devour everything in my field. And I also have a soft spot for poetry: Rumi, Mary Oliver, David Whyte, Kenneth Rexroth.

Q: Do you hear from your readers much? What kinds of things do they say?

A: I love my readers, and I hear from them daily. They are a chatty, upbeat bunch! They’ve been utterly encouraging, commenting that they enjoy my humor and writing style, asking questions, and telling me their personal stories about how the book has been useful or even transformative in their lives. I am stunned by the open hearts of the people I am connecting with, and also how the Universe is arranging for us to meet from all points of the globe.

Q: What are your current projects?

A: Your Psychic Child will be out with Llewellyn in December 2010. I’m starting my third book soon.

Q: What do you like to do when you're not writing?

A: My work and schedule are so intense, I revel in downtime. I like to ride bikes, do some mellow kayaking, swim, hang out with my partner and kids, and take trips around the Pacific Northwest. I’m a west coast gal— I love the Pacific Ocean and Puget Sound.

Q: How did you come up with your title?

A: It was provided by my spirit guides. I don’t really argue back.

Q: Is there a message in your book that you want readers to grasp?

A: Anyone can have a direct connection with the Divine, and it will change your life. This kind of two-way communication with God/Universe/Source allows you to receive clear, specific guidance on your life’s path and purpose. No guru, priest, religion, teacher, rules, workshop, CD package, training or other is required.

Q: What’s the hardest part of writing a book?

A: The chair. Sometimes I write six hours a day—but I jump up and down from that chair so many times, it’s not even funny. Coming back to the chair, sitting down, and sticking to it is extremely challenging for me.

Q: If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?

A: I would include an audio CD of The 33 Lessons, read aloud. People ask for this all the time. I’m working on adding it to my website, now.