The Tribune

By JEFFARAH GIBSON

Tribune Features Writer

jgibson@tribunemedia.net 

The gift of self-discovery is what Bahamian author ShaKeisha McKenzie hopes to give her readers this holiday season with her latest book, “100 Days of Singleness”.

The book, she said, is designed to take readers, especially women, who are in a season of singleness on a journey to develop and become more aware of who they are.  

And what better time to release a self-help book of this nature than when countless singles are probably making New Year’s resolutions about potential relationship goals.

The journey through chosen singlehood is one that the author embarked on herself a while back when she recognised a cycle of dysfunction in her own life that needed to come to an end. 

“I was hurting, my relationships weren’t working, and I was in and out of depression for longer than I wanted to admit. It started with a recommitment to my relationship with God that birthed an awareness of myself I had never previously experienced,” Ms McKenzie told Tribune Woman.

“That’s where this came from – my journey to healing shared with the world. I saw what God did in me and I just want every woman I encounter to know that He can and desires to do the same for her.”

The book, she said, challenges and motivates readers to step out of their comfort zone each day. Readers are challenged on some days to recite a prayer, meditate on a particular scripture, release an unhealthy relationship or write a list of things they love about themselves. The book was written for singles, but focuses primarily on development and self-awareness.

“I made a commitment to transparency when I was writing this book. I stayed true to that. I believe wholeheartedly that everyone who picks it up will be able to get something from it. I have witnessed people of all ages tell me how they were inspired and connected with it. It’s truth, my truth, and God’s word. Committing to the challenge is a life-changing experience; it’s been proven in myself and women whose transformation I have witnessed,” the author said.

“I certainly love my readers. I write with them in mind and under influence of the great God I serve.”

“100 days of Singleness” has also inspired a web series called “Singulher in a partnership with Unorthobox Entertainment.

Ms McKenzie’s call to uplift and encourage extends far beyond the book, which she said can be considered a by-product of the Cross My Heart Ministry which she founded. 

“Cross My Heart Ministry was first birthed in 2014 with the motto, ‘Changing the world, one heart at a time’. The goal has and always will be to share the message of healing and hope found in Christ. We have recently begun registering young women between 18 and 35 for a new initiative called Heart Strings. I believe it’s going to change lives,” said Ms McKenzie.

“My greatest joy is found in serving, loving and watching those around me flourish in their God-given purpose. Most dear to me is my daughter, who challenges me daily to be a better woman than I was the day before, and my fiancé who loves me in doing the very same. I am family-oriented and purpose-motivated.”

Apart from being a motivational author, Ms McKenzie is a member of eNue, a youth organisation that aims to help youth to appreciate, embrace and release their inner greatness.

This year she also engaged a numerous speaking engagements. Ms McKenzie is currently pursuing a life coach certification which she expects to receive in March 2017. 

“100 Days of Singleness” can be purchased at The Bible Book & Gift Centre (Nassau), H & L School Supplies (Downtown Freeport), and from Amazon as a Kindle book.