courage to confront darkest moments

Summer is nearly at its end, and I am prepared to embrace autumn, my favorite season. Some people feel fall is the start of withering leaves, cold weather, and lots of rain in Vancouver, but I always thought autumn was the start of reflection and reevaluating my life journey. As the leaves turn vibrant shades of red and gold, I discover myself inspired to slow down and appreciate the beauty around me. It’s a time for cozy evenings, sipping warm drinks, and setting new intentions for the months ahead.

Before the summer ended, I met a friend for brunch at one of my favorite restaurants in Richmond. She has never visited Cannery Café, and I was delighted to share the joy the restaurant gave me. I’m thankful that she enjoyed the food and the positive vibes around us. Bonding with a friend gave me a new perspective on life and a chance to reconnect with our daily lives. We spent hours chatting about our dreams, challenges, and everything in between. Sharing our experiences and supporting each other in our personal growth felt rejuvenating, reminding me of the importance of these connections in navigating life’s ups and downs. As we wrapped up our meal, I couldn’t help but feel a renewed sense of motivation. The conversation lingered in my mind, inspiring me to embrace the challenges ahead with a fresh outlook and a deeper appreciation for the relationships that enrich my journey.

The owner gave us a complimentary French toast. Ceci, thank you!

Do you have someone to enjoy a sumptuous meal and share laughter and tears with?

Please read Fate Unshaken for your autumn reading. It’s a captivating story that weaves together themes of destiny and resilience. You’ll find yourself immersed in the characters’ journeys as they battle the obstacles that come their way.

Available at Steveston Bookstore, Steveston Village, Richmond

Selling a book by an indie or self-published author is challenging. Most of the books sold were online or at webstores. I contacted local bookstores in Vancouver and Richmond for my 2022 book, “Revenge Mistaken,” but most had no room for it. On April 16, 2025, the release of my second book, “Fate Unshaken,” prompted me to revisit the bookstores in Richmond.

I visited Chapters Indigo in Richmond Centre, and the manager told me that they couldn’t accommodate me at this time. Then I visited Steveston Village with a friend and went inside Steveston Bookstore; I was so overwhelmed by how much I liked the ambience and the energy inside the store. We met the female owner who has been operating the bookstore for thirty-five years now. I asked her if she would let me sell the physical copy at her store, and she said I could bring a book or two for starters.

Today, after my appointment, I visited another bookstore in Steveston Village, but the person there declined to accept my book for a reason. After thanking her, I proceeded to my main purpose, which was to bring a copy of Revenge Mistaken and Fate Unshaken to Steveston Bookstore. I met the male owner, and he was so gracious and gave me courage to showcase my books. We talked a little bit, and I felt his sincerity and encouragement. I’m grateful he took a chance on me.

After the adrenaline rush, I treated myself to a wonderful brunch of waffles with smoked salmon and unlimited coffee from Steveston Cannery Café and met the owner. In a gesture of gratitude, I presented her with a signed copy of Fate Unshaken. It feels so nice to appreciate each other. Thank you for the sumptuous brunch.

Does someone take a chance on your accomplishment?

Tag: courage to confront darkest moments

Enjoy last few weeks of summer

Someone took a chance on me