The Tribune

By JEFFARAH GIBSON

Tribune Features Writer

jgibson@tribunemedia.net

At age 13 it was clear to Bahamian author Leshea “Sapphire J” Jones that she had something to say and something to share.

Years later, her unique way of presenting that which lies heavy on her heart motivated her to publish a book of poetry.

Sapphire J, who is also a singer, entrepreneur, motivational speaker and fine arts facilitator, is now re-releasing her book “Wait! I Have Something to Say” in the hopes that readers learn from and are inspired by her triumphs over adversity as a young Christian.

“ ‘Wait! I Have Something to Say’ is a book of poems that were written during different points in my life,” she said. Sapphire J readers can expect vulnerability and a young author who is not afraid to share her pain.

Shortly after the initial release of the book, Sapphire J also brought out her first spoken word audio CD.

To celebrate the re-release of her book, she will be hosting a signing session as well as a live album recording. The event will be held under the theme “Treasures in Clay Jars” on Sunday, August 7, at the Life Worship Centre at 7.30pm. Hosting the event will be radio personality Antonia “Toni” Lightbourne, which special appearances by Denczil Rolle & Friends, Chesternique and Lenelle Michelle.

Sapphire J said she strives to make each piece of her work different by adding a touch of her unique flair. She hopes her creativity will always find an outlet through various works.

Each poem in this book, she said, was inspired by different emotions and situations she faced as a teenager and young adult. For most of her life, venting would take the form of writing pages and pages of poetry, even though she never had any intention of writing a book.

“Those who are familiar with my ministry know that I am one who loves to target territories that have been overlooked, or rather, people have been afraid to address. As Christians we are afraid to talk about our emotions, struggles and things that the Church considers to be taboo. As a result, I tend to use this platform to share the gospel unapologetically with spoken word/poetry. I guess it is safe to say I tend to share God’s heart without any form of restrictions,” she told Tribune Woman.

As is always the case when it comes to her ministry, reaching people is the ultimate goal for Sapphire J.

She said she believes the words she writes, and knows the poems she has spoken will not be in vain.

“Having something to say and actually saying it are two totally different things and many of us struggle with finding our voice. Therefore, I took a bold step not only to develop my voice, but to relate to those who have been silent for such a long time. I wanted to inspire young people to not only walk into their purpose, but to be comfortable with the gifts God has given them and learn to embrace them at an early age. Purpose doesn’t have age restrictions, meaning you don’t have to wait until your 30s to pursue it; but rather you can begin to reshape a nation from a teenager,” she said.

“The overall message of this book is to simply encourage all readers to develop a relationship with the Holy Spirit, which means allowing him to penetrate your heart, asking God to reveal Himself to you in ways you thought were not possible.”