We were lucky to catch up with Adrienne Prather recently and have shared our conversation below.
Adrienne, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Who is your hero and why? What lessons have you learned from them and how have they influenced your journey?
My mother was my hero. She taught me the importance of keeping God first in everything that I do. I learned about having faith no matter what situation comes my way through this incredible soul. My mother was a true fighter who fought to the very end. I was able to witness her faith first-hand during her sickness. No matter what heartbreak that she faced, she would smile and always have something positive to say. This is the reason why I smile and try to find the positive in the most negative of situations. It was through her, that I learn to keep loving people even if they are unable to reciprocate it. I learned to follow my dreams and to shine even in the midst of adversity. She will always be my guiding light, my reason why. Her love and smile entered the room before she did. My mom was so sweet and caring and loved helping people. She wanted others around her to be successful. She was always there for her family and provided the nurturing that we needed to help guide us in this world. When people say there is nothing like a mother’s love I would have to agree. Having to live in this world without her, has been one of the hardest battles that I ever faced in my entire life. I miss her phone calls, encouragement, the talks and having the one person in my corner that I knew had my back no matter what. Reflecting on her memory is what is giving me the strength and power to endure. I was so blessed to have her for 42 years. Mom will always be my greatest inspiration and true hero!
Adrienne, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
My name is Adrienne Prather, I was born in Atlanta, Georgia and raised in Clayton County, Jonesboro, Georgia. As a child writing was my therapy and the way for me to connect with myself and others. I loved putting into words the way that I felt. Little did I know, at the time that it would lead to me writing books and pursuing other inspirational avenues. I am proud that I was able to publish my own work. I also had some of my work published by a company as well. I made some important connections by stepping out on faith. I believe those small steps are leading me to greater. I am proud that I published 3 books, Reflections of Love Inspirational Poetry, Encouragement Cafe and Grace Finds Peace, Children’s Book. This is only the beginning and there is more to follow. My creativity not only lead me to writing but also to crafting. I started making earrings and have an eye for design. I am so excited to see where this takes me!
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
The most rewarding aspect is being able to amplify my voice and to have creative control. It’s great to be acknowledge for the work that I had the pleasure to produce. I absolutely love the fact that my talents allow me the opportunity to pursue and accomplish my dreams. I am truly grateful and humbled. I love to encourage and motivate others although I must admit, I struggle in motivating myself at times. Although it’s hard, I think about how we go to work everyday, wake up and keep pushing, whether we feel like it or not. So, when I ponder that thought alone it motivates me to push forward. Yes I had stumbling blocks but I will not give up and I will continue to inspire others. I learn that being human qualifies me, having feelings and emotions connects me to others. I must operate in that gift boldly and not waiver. It takes all type of people for the universe. Every person on this earth is here for a reason, now we have a choice to accept it or walk away from our calling. I choose to accept it, although I ran away from it, I am running towards it with boldness. I have a legacy to protect and a guardian angel who is looking at me to carry forth the torch. So, I am purposing in my heart to make her proud of me.
Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?
I feel that creatives are more willing to take risks and are led by their artistry. As a creative, I flow through expression and allow that to lead me. Often times I am persuaded by my talents. I thrive off of creativity. I am a Dreamer and love to visualize the impossible and often go with the flow in my decision making. My spirit has to thrive, a connection to the content and my audience is my driving force. I often get annoyed being confined to a specific way or structure. I understand that certain measures must be in place but I refuse to restrict my creativity to fit into societal norms. I have to be my true authentic-self and this is where my purpose exist. I accepted the fact that I am an artist and creative. I am committed in creating content that provoke emotion, change and mobility through freedom of expression.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Tmialuv
- Facebook: Adrienne Prather, Author Arienne Prather, Grace Finds Peace, and Encouragement Cafe