Hocus Pocus and All That
If Only Laughter Was the Best Medicine
By Maureen L. Bonatch
Someone once asked me if there are life lessons in my book. Initially, the thought of a life lesson brought forth images of a deep meaningful message like that usually portrayed in a women’s fiction novel. Granted, I often get into the mood to immerse myself in such a serious read, but as you may notice, most of my books fall in the a little less than serious side. Although there are some life lessons that inevitably leak into my stories and most of these lessons can be applied to everyday, serious and shudder normal non-magical life.
Normal is overrated.
Everyone is a little bit crazy. Trust me, you might think you’re the most normal person in the world and there’s probably someone out there who thinks you might be a little bit weird. And there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that. In fact, that’s awesome. That’s what makes you more than a carbon copy of everyone else.
You can still be kick-ass even if you stumble along the journey or a newbie at this whole heroine thing.
My heroines fly their freak flags with pride while discovering theirs, and everyone else’s, little bit of super power.
Family Matters.
Family isn’t always defined by blood. It’s the people you consider your posse. The one’s who’ve got your back through good times and bad. Even if they might be a bunch of oddballs you love them anyway because they embrace (or at least tolerate) all your weird habits, idiosyncrasies and temper tantrums. They’re the ones you can be your authentic self with because love soothes the savage beast. Whether it’s the stubborn alpha male, or your annoying sibling, turn the other cheek or maybe give them a hug. (Hugs make everything better.)
Don’t Forget your Four-Legged Family.
Granted this could be interpreted as a shifter, or other paranormal being in a book, but in this instance, I’m referring to pets. Just about every story I write has one because as someone who’s shared a home with more than one four-legged fur baby over the years, I’ve come to appreciate many benefits even outside of their irresistible personality and stress-relieving benefits. They also make a great secondary character in a story (and a cute, yet sometimes cantankerous, writing assistant).
Who’s Laughing Now?
I hope it’s you that’s laughing—even if it’s at yourself. Laughter plays a key part in my books in defining personalities, mending fences and making the best of a difficult situation. Whether it’s in my light hearted paranormal, or my dark fantasies, I always love finding the humor in everyday situations. Not taking anything too seriously can save you a few wrinkles and grey hair. Laugh more. Worry less. You’ll find enough seriousness in everyday reality and being able to snark or litter a conversation with loving sarcasm is an art.
Find the Magic.
In everything. Look a little closer at the world around you and the people with whom you share it. Everyone comes with their own special kind of magic – embrace it.
What Do You Hope to Gain from a Story?
Maureen Bonatch grew up in small town Pennsylvania and her love of the four seasons—hockey, biking, sweat pants and hibernation—keep her there. While immersed in writing or reading paranormal romance and fantasy, she survives on caffeine, wine, music, and laughter. A feisty Shih Tzu, her teen twins & alpha hubby keep her in line. http://www.maureenbonatch.com/
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