by Kathy Tretter
“I’m not an author.”
“I’m not a writer.”
“I just journal and take notes.”
These are the words of Sue Schmidt of Dale, who despite her protests to the contrary, can now claim authenticity as both a writer and an author.
Her first book is hot off the press and shares part of its title with the title of this article.
Sue also shares authorship with Dr. Donna Kincheloe, who is partially responsible for Schmidt’s leap into the world of publishing.
Dr. Kincheloe is a retired nurse, author, podcaster and lecturer who convinced Sue she had something to say that would resonate with others who may be living a parallel life.
When you read it, “You will know someone if not yourself,” Sue explains, referring to seeing yourself or someone you know in the pages of this slim, impactful volume.
“The book is a raw look at my life,” she told a gathering recently at Christ Community Church of Dale.
“Have you ever been afraid?” Schmidt asked the gathering. “I have.” She says in the past she may have just hidden, pretending things weren’t happening when in reality they were.
From a troubled childhood during which she did not feel loved, finding it in her heart to accept what she couldn’t change — then changing the dynamics of the situation through her own tenacity …
From starting at nothing to building a career many would envy …
From losing one child to fostering over one hundred children, then adopting one very special needs child who fills her heart with love every day.
Sue has experienced love and loss, heartbreak and joy, and deep, forever friendships.
The 10th of 11 children, she’s been married to her husband, Chad for 26 years. Sue didn’t start fostering children until she was 68, after spending 45 years as a hair stylist and 10 years modeling. She appeared in commercials and even participated in a movie project with Madonna.
A woman of faith born of resilience, Sue leads Celebrate Recovery and volunteers with Hospice, in addition to fostering children.
This book is her way of sharing a message for anyone longing to rise above fear and renew their trust in God.
Sue will hold a book signing on Saturday, January 24, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. EST ( 9-11 a.m. Central) at the Next Chapter Book Store on the square in Jasper where she plans to award 10 lucky attendees with a free book.
Her newly published book, “When Not to be Afraid”, is also available at Just Whimsy, also on the square in Jasper, at the Ferdinand Flower Shop on Main Street and via checkout at Lincoln Heritage Public Library in Dale.
The cost is $10 at these local venues and is also available on Amazon for $9.79 plus tax and shipping. She asks that anyone who orders from Amazon leave a comment.
Schmidt, whose now been bitten by the writing bug warns readers to watch out for book two, entitled “When You Are Done Runnin’”.
She notes, “If you thought book one was a roller coaster, brace yourself for what’s coming.”
