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Lee's new book details battles won

Published:Saturday | July 26, 2014 | 12:00 AM
Janice Lee (left) talks about her new book with Dr Claudette Cooke at Hope Gardens in St Andrew on Thursday.-Winston Sill/Freelance Photographer

Jodi-Ann Gilpin, Gleaner Writer

Even after going through a devastating divorce, dealing with the unexpected death of her mother, and battling life's daily challenges, Janice Lee never imagined her story would someday all be penned and made into a book. But it has and that book is titled He Provides Rivers in the Desert Places of My Life.

Speaking with The Gleaner following the book's launch at Hope Gardens in St Andrew, Lee explained that the book reflects experiences she had over the past 25 years.

"All of this came about in obedience to God. Even in the preparation stages I kept saying, 'this thing' because I did not expect that I would actually write a book. But that's what God said and I just had to do it," she declared.

"I am a person who believes in 'till death do us part' and after 10 years of marriage the other party said he wanted a new start and that was a challenging time for me. The death of my mother was another hurdle among many other obstacles, but I never felt that God abandoned me and I am hoping that I can encourage readers with my story," she continued.

Out of her comfort zone

Lee also shared that it has always been a challenge to step out of her comfort zone, but eventually she had to step out in faith. She also encouraged other persons to be resilient.

"I'm not very comfortable in large groups and I have always been one to remain where I feel comfortable, but since last year I felt the need to launch out and be bold and there comes a time when you have to step out of the boat," Lee said.

"I went to a conference once and a speaker said there are many dreams in cemeteries, which is true. A lot of us have dreams, whether it's a business venture or a new idea and we remain paralysed by fear. There is no magic to accomplishing dreams, however, you just have to step out and do it," she said.