Mendon resident and first-time book author Gwenn Voelckers is holding a book signing and Q&A opportunity at the Mendon Public Library from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 25.
Voelckers has just released Alone and Content: Inspiring, empowering essays to help divorced and widowed women feel whole and complete on their own.
“The book is a collection of thought-provoking and practical essays for those who live alone after losing a spouse or partner through divorce, death, or other life circumstance,” said Voelckers.
“Many often wonder, ‘Will I ever be happy again?’”
“As a divorced woman, I know how painful it can be to find yourself living alone, especially after a long relationship has ended,” continued Voelckers. “I also know it’s possible to reclaim your life, to determine who you really are, and to turn living alone into an adventure of self-discovery and personal growth at any age.”
The book opens with a “How Content are You?” quiz, followed by a simple scorecard designed to help readers assess their level of happiness and satisfaction with life. While not scientific, this quiz and scorecard can provide a helpful baseline for moving forward on the road to contentment.
After the quiz is taken, readers can then pick and choose from over 25 essays organized into six chapters:
- Coming into Your Own
- Overcoming Challenges
- Designing a Home Sweet Home
- Surviving the Holidays and Special Occasions
- Exploring Relationships and Romance
- Spreading Your Wings
Each essay is followed by two compelling questions, under the heading, “What You Can Do Today.” These questions are designed to inspire action and motivate readers to take healthy steps toward creating a life of fulfillment and joy on their own.
While the book is intended for women, men can also benefit from Voelckers’ experience and helpful advice.
“It’s my hope that those who pick up my book will find encouragement, inspiration, and even a few laughs within its pages,” said Voelckers. “Ideally, Alone and Content will awaken readers to new ways of thinking about living alone and to the pride, pleasure, and power that can come with independence.”
Here’s what BJ Mann, a highly respected Divorce Mediator had to say about the book: “As a divorce mediator (for 17 years) I have seen thousands of clients yearn for a guide to help them move from sadness to hope. Gwenn’s gentle nudges and positive suggestions are a blueprint for being your best self and loving your own company. The book provides the key for thriving not just surviving, for living not just healing.”
Alone and Content is available on Amazon.com in both paperback and Kindle editions and can be ordered through Barnes and Noble. You can learn more about Gwenn, her workshops, and the book at www.aloneandcontent.com.
“With the right attitude, you can turn the life you are living into the life you want. Possibilities can open up. When that happens, living alone becomes secondary to living fully!,” Voelckers said with enthusiasm.