Hi guys! I know it's been awhile. For those who don't know too much about me my name is Sascha Ealey and I reside in Brooklyn New York with my two children. At the age of 7, I knew I wanted to become a writer. A storyteller is all I've ever wanted to be. Being a timid girl growing up, writing was an outlet for me to express myself. The blank pages of my journals were my bestfriend as I poured my secrets, insecurities, and doubts onto them. As life was happening, I would record important events and feelings into my notebooks which led me to publish my memoir "Dry Bones" in February of this year. I am currently working on an autofiction novella about narcissism, a topic that is near and dear to my heart. I am also working on an outline for an on line course to teach and encourage people to write their own memoirs. Through writing and storytelling, I have always wanted to empower people to own their truths so they can be set free and move forward without the past holding them down like shackles.
As a little girl, the first influential author to inspire me was Maya Angelou. She was real raw, and her stories/poems read in a matter of fact way. Growing up, through her writing she reminded me that I decide that I'm worthy and that nobody can do it for me. She taught me that I don't have to be a fashion model to embrace my beauty. Her message was to all generations and it rejected "social beauty standards". Maya passionately defended the rights of women and catered to the ignored. I felt seen when reading her work. She took on many roles and demonstrated to us girls and people of color that we can break barriers and challenge "societal norms".
It is important to learn about her achievements because she was one of the most influential voices of my time . Maya praised her strength, body, and ability to rise up and away from her personal and historic past. Both of her poems "Phenomenal Woman" and "Still I Rise" have taught me about being confident in my own skin even if other people don't like it. This was very important to me, giving my first negative encounter with someone at just 12 years old. I would have gave anything to meet her in person. She was so revolutionary in her imagination. She Her cultural impact will never be forgotten because she was an embodiment of self-confidence, self-assurance, and self-love..
As an adult, Iyanla Vanzant became my Maya Angelou. She too, never sugar coated anything and is very influential. My favorite book of hers is "Peace from Broken Pieces" which I used as a blue print for writing my memoir. I took what I learned about family pathology and incorporated that information into my own personal story. Her vulnerability made me feel like it was ok for me to be vulnerable. That is what I want for my readers/audience. I was very humbled to have seen her three years ago at the Kings Theater giving us jewels . I would often picture myself giving my story on "Iyanla, Fix My Life". Both Maya Angelou and Inyanla Vanzant played a part on the type of author I strive to be.
Whether you are a Writer or not, who influenced or inspired you growing up? Write me back and let me know!