Introduction: More Than Words Volume 6
More Than Words is published by Harlequin, and before you fall off your seat, stay with me for a few minutes. Harlequin More Than Words is a program, where people can nominate women in their communities whose actions make a major difference in the lives of others. What Harlequin has done, which is what they are known for, is to produce novellas inspired by the stories of award recipients. These novellas are written by their best authors, some of whom are New York Times Bestselling Authors. This year is More Than Words Volume 6.
What is More Than Words Volume 6 About?
In More Than Words Volume 6
are five short stories: Almost Lost by Joan Johnston, inspired by Katherine Chon, Sheltering Hearts by Robyn Carr, inspired by Rhonda Clemons, Safely Home by Christina Skye, inspired by Barbara Huston, No Limits by Rochelle Alers, inspired by Lara Tavares, and The Princess Shoes by Maureen Child, inspired by Roni Lomeli. The sheroes who inspired the stories, started non-profit organizations to fill a need within their community.
- Katherine Chon started the Polaris Project to combat human trafficking
- Rhonda Clemons founded Zoë Institute to provide resources to assist single mothers
- Barbara Huston founder Partners in Care Maryland, which is a “service in exchange” program for the elderly
- Lara Tavares founded Sky's the Limit Youth Organization to provide computers to students in need
- Roni Lomeli founded Shoes That Fit to provide shoes to children in need.
These five women are our invisible mentors because they saw a need in their communities and filled it. For two years in a row, I have known one of the award recipients. Several years ago, Lava Tavares did graphic design work for me, so I was delighted that she had won one of the More Than Words Awards. I lost touch with Lara, and had no idea that she had started Sky's the Limit.
I have always admired Lara Tavares' compassion. Over 10 years ago, a friend of hers was terminally ill with sickle cell anemia and died before they could find a match for her. Lara was involved in a fundraiser to secure funds to help raise her friend's son.
I have read three of the six More Than Words, and it finally occurred to me that there is someone I know in South Africa who is worthy of such an award and I plan to nominate her in January 2011 when the awards are open for 2012. Which woman do you know who is doing wonderful things in her community? Why don't you consider nominating her for Harlequin More Than Words Award.
Final Thoughts: More Than Words Volume 6
This isn't a book review, but I recommend reading More Than Words Volume 6
because it educates us on what others are doing, and it may inspire some to take a leap of faith and embark on projects that are dear to their hearts.
What are some worthy projects in your community that you'd like to tell us about?
More Than Words, Volume 6: Almost Lost\Sheltering Hearts\Safely Home\No Limits\The Princess Shoes
More Than Words, Volume 7: Compassion Can't Wait\Someplace Like Home\What the Heart Wants
More Than Words: Acts of Kindness: Whispers of the Heart\It's Not About the Dress\The Princess Shoes
