Nya’s Shining Star is not just a children’s book; it’s a testament to love, resilience, and the power of storytelling. In this heartfelt narrative, the author shares the journey of Nya, a precious soul whose time on Earth was brief yet impactful. Through personal experiences and poignant reflections, the book invites readers to embrace vulnerability, find healing in community, and honor the legacies of loved ones. With a blend of sincerity and hope, Nya’s Shining Star illuminates the path toward healing and empowers readers to navigate their own journeys with courage and compassion.
Can you share the story behind Nya’s Shining Star and its significance to you?
Nya’s journey began before she even entered the world. At 22 weeks into the pregnancy, we learned that our time with her would be short once she was born. Despite the heartache of knowing her life would be brief, we cherished every moment during pregnancy to birth, (This was a full-term pregnancy). For her birth we were surrounded by loved ones on May 2, 2017, to her peaceful passing in my arms three days later. The compassion we received from Dekalb Medical and Atlanta Obstetrician and Gynecology, especially from my midwife Valerie Chikando Tchinang and the nursing staff, was a beacon of light during our darkest times. Their unwavering support continued through my subsequent pregnancies, including the miraculous arrival of my son Micah on May 5, 2018 (this pregnancy was not planned. I hadn’t decided if I wanted to have kids after this or be pregnant again. But God decided for me), exactly a year after Nya’s departure. His unexpected due date, originally set for May 23, felt like a divine intervention, a clear sign that Nya’s spirit guided us toward healing. My cousin Monifah captured this beautifully, calling it a “catalyst for healing.” Writing Nya’s Shining Star was a transformative experience, not just a tribute to my daughter but a vessel for my growth and healing. It’s a gift to my children, a way to honor their sister’s memory, and an invitation for others to begin their journeys of grief and healing.
What inspired you to write a children’s book about Nya’s story?
The book emerged from a deep need to honor Nya’s life and to share her story with her siblings, particularly Micah, whose birth intertwined so closely with her memory. I had another book in mind, but the urge to tell Nya’s story was overwhelming. Her name means “Purpose,” and I was determined to find it. The idea of a children’s book came to me as a way to keep her memory alive, to ensure her place in our family, and to help her siblings connect with her. The book became a medium for me to express my grief and to create a legacy for Nya that could help others find their own paths to healing. It’s a testament to her impact and a tool for creating safe spaces for women to share their vulnerabilities without shame and for those who support us to make it safe for us to do so.
What was the biggest challenge in sharing your story through this book?
The greatest challenge was overcoming the fear of vulnerability. For years, Nya’s story was a sacred secret, known only to a few. Sharing it with the world meant exposing a deeply personal part of my life and exposing my daughter. “Doing it afraid” became my mantra, pushing me past the fear of the unknown. Embracing this vulnerability has opened doors to help others find their catalyst for healing, and although it’s daunting, I’m committed to this journey, wherever it may lead.
How did you overcome these challenges?
I faced my fears head-on, despite the anxiety that still lingers. For too long, fear held me back—fear of not being good enough, of being ignored or feeling inadequate. This time, I chose to act despite those fears. This interview is a testament to that courage. I’ve learned that there’s strength in vulnerability and that sharing our stories can lead to authentic healing and empowerment.
What have you learned from the response to your book?
I’ve learned that being labeled “strong” can be more of a burden than a compliment. We all have the right to be fragile and vulnerable, and it’s crucial to have safe spaces to express those feelings. The response to Nya’s Shining Star, though framed as a children’s book, has sparked profound conversations among adults, women, and families. It has given voice to mothers who’ve never shared their stories and has inspired children, including my own, to shine brightly. Witnessing the impact of my story has confirmed that this journey is not just about me or Nya, but about the greater purpose God has for us.
What are your future plans for continuing Nya’s legacy?
I’m still in the early stages of this journey, without a concrete plan, but I’m committed to pursuing Nya’s purpose. Every day, it becomes clearer that her legacy is to empower women, to encourage the sharing of our stories, and to support each other through vulnerability. Whether through platforms like Harness magazine, podcasts, advocacy, or creating intimate safe spaces, I’m open to whatever path God lays out for us.
How do you balance your personal healing journey with your professional life?
Balancing my healing with my professional responsibilities is an ongoing practice. I’ve learned the importance of setting boundaries and have a strong support system of friends and family. I communicate my needs more openly with my husband and have redefined self-care as the establishment of boundaries that protect my well-being and mental health. It’s a deliberate practice, and I’m committed to maintaining it.
What message do you hope readers take away from your book?
I hope readers find the courage to embrace love, community, and vulnerability. I want them to discover their safe spaces and understand the power of sharing their stories. Nya’s Shining Star is more than a book; it’s a beacon for those seeking to find light in their moments of darkness, and a reminder that love and connection can guide us through our healing journeys.
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