During this trying times I have seen some bad things but I have also seen some amazing things. Most of you who know me know I prefer not to dwell on the negative. We can’t stop the prejudice, the ignorance or the selfishness in others, we can only try to correct it in our own lives. So, instead of worrying about THOSE people, let’s celebrate the people we see doing good things.

People, myself included often complain about the negativity on Facebook and social media, but since the virus outbreak I have seen people trying hard to be positive and encouraging. Even as they pass on information, they try to be positive. I still see an occasional post that makes me hesitate to send it, not because I don’t agree with it but because the way it is worded sounds negative. During this frightening time I do not feel it is the time to lash out at each other, it is a time to come together as best we can, and support each other.

I went to our local restaurant this week to pick-up my take-out order. My husband goes to the drive-through but I decided to go inside. I wanted to check on my friends. People were standing apart three to six feet, but they were still having conversations, still helping their neighbors and even a stranger or two, they were showing more kindness and consideration, and patience. It made me realize that there are still good people and we will get through this together.

I’ve put up a sign on the door to my store no more than three customers at a time please and most people check before entering. People stop to visit a moment, hungry for contact but keep their distance, some have worn gloves, avoided touching doors by using their shirts, elbows or backsides to open them. They are learning to cough into their elbows, wipe their face with their wrists and wash their hands often.

No matter whom I see during the day whether at the store where I work or when I have to run my errands or on social media, the majority is trying to offer support to their friends, family and neighbors through whatever talents they possess.

I, and some of my fellow authors have put their books on sale or even free. My first four ebooks are 99 cents each, Red Steel, my recent release is only $2.99 but I have free ebooks available for anyone who asks. I would love to share them with you!

Chrome Pink https://books2read.com/u/bQRlrZ

White Gold https://books2read.com/u/mZKlR5

Titanium Blue https://books2read.com/u/bMpl6a

Evergreen Crystals https://books2read.com/u/mVwlMr

Red Steel https://books2read.com/u/m0OdRV

Just before the virus outbreak, I took my books to The Next Chapter Book Store in New Bern. Michelle Flye, author and owner of the book store has a fabulous collection of local authors’ books. As an author herself, she is an advocate for indie-authors and she is doing all she can to keep her store going during this frightening time.

In trying to support my community and a bit self-serving as well, I have purchased a gift certificate to The Next Chapter Books and Art Store in New Bern to give away. For my out of state friends, I will also provide an Amazon Gift card. To win, share. Share this post. Share your book links, especially if you are one of Michelle’s authors, shout out your books. Tell people what books you are reading, no matter if they are indie or not. Share pictures of what you are doing during your confinement, or if you are like me, still working, tell us how you are coping. I would like to see a real community built here.

April 15th I will draw a name or email address from those who have commented, shared or posted on my social media, or who signed up for my newsletter. If when I contact you, you are not able to use the store gift certificate, I will send an Amazon gift card and draw again. If that person is also from out of state, I will send another Amazon gift card and choose a local supporter to receive the $20 gift card from The Next Chapter. (Facebook, Twitter nor any other entity is NOT responsible for the outcome of this contest.) Winners will be announced on all of my social media sites. Note: if the first winner drawn is local, I will draw once more for an Amazon Gift Card. You do not have to purchase my books with your card though I hope you are a fan. You do not have to sign up for my newsletter to be added to the drawing either but I hope you will. Let’s be a community.

The Next Chapter Book and Art Store website: https://thenextchapternc.com/

Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/TheNextChapterBooksNB/?ref=br_rs

To sign up for my newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/25b327a3db97/httpssherrilhollistercom?fbclid=IwAR0cq2YEK3RtTE_UyjxH_K_UbCo_X3y99WItSkJyYp9OtP36iZMtgyai9Wk