Questions Frequently Asked of Jeannine

(Scroll down for testimonials)

Q: "Why, after all these years, did you decide to tell your story?

While not everyone has been abused, every person has experienced some disappointment, hurt or misfortune. I wrote Holy Paws with the hope that others, after reading my story, would be drawn to discover their own unique way of healing, or letting go of the past and the impact it has had on their life.

For over 50 years I kept my abuse secret. I could not keep my healing secret. I had to share the daily miracles that were placed on my path so that I could experience healing and learn to love myself. This is the journey I wished to share.

Q: "In Holy Paws you didn't tell the specifics of your abuse. Why?

I wanted to write a story of triumph and hope, not harm. I believe telling the details of my abuse would be of no benefit. What is helpful is letting others know that it's possible to release the hurt of an experience and move on.

Q: "How long did it take you to write the book?"

It took eight or nine years to write Holy Paws. There were months when I didn't work on it, but I did journal. At times, I chided myself for taking so long to finish. Finally, I understood that I could not complete the book until I had completed my healing.

Q: "Are you still angry at those who abused you?"

In the beginning I was angry and bitter about what had been done to me. With each recollection of my abuse, my resentment seemed to grow. It took years for me to realize the more I concentrated on what others had done to me, the more I relived my abusive experiences.

Although I was entitled to my feelings, holding onto anger prevented me from enjoying my live each day. If I was ever going to heal, I had to release my resentment. It was the only way for me to move on. It was the only way for me to live.

Testimonials

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from Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Missouri, New Jersey, New Mexico, Texas, Utah, Vermount, Wyoming and South Africa and Greece

"I could not put it down. Thank you for sharing your story."

"I finished your book today. I feel with all my heart that if there's never another book written on anything this one has the power to heal the world. Blessings to you! Thank you sooooooooooo much for making your story public."

"After I finished your book I looked at our dog and thought, 'what a wonderful addition to our lives.' "

"I've read Holy Paws three times now, and each time I get more out of it. The book helped me to realize that I needed to slow down and take some quiet time. Thank you."

"Holy Paws is a beautiful illustration of one courageous woman's journey toward healing and self-discovery."

"I read your book in record time - actually I did not want to put it down. There is so much to learn from your thoughts in the book."

"I just finished reading your wonderful book... I celebrated in your healing and strength. ....Thanks for letting other women know ... they can heal and go on to live a life uncommon."

"I received your book on Monday. I sat down that evening around 7 just to look it over and several hours later I had completed reading it ... I could not put it down."

"Reading your book has helped me understand why my mother does what she does. Thank you."

"Hello from Greece. I have read your book and l agree with you that there is always need for healing."

"I bought a copy of your book for a friend in Pennsylvania. I'm so glad I read it first. I laughed and I cried. It touched my heart.

"Thank you for giving donations to animal shelters."

" This little book is profound."

"Your healing process, and your willingness, eagerness to share it with the world impressed me more than the exploits of most military medal winners. You have great courage."

"I just finished reading your amazing book. I don't know what I admire more - the writing of the book or the 'taking control of your life.' You are a very brave person for writing "Holy Paws."

"I've read Holy Paws three times and each time I learn a little more."

"Your relentless search for peace is an inspiration. Through my own recovery, I was also led to a loving and caring God. As you know, it isn't easy but it is possible. Your healing will become an inspiration to so many. Most of who you will never know."

"Very well written. You are a great lady."

"I was very moved by what you had to say. Thank you for sharing your belief in God."

"I'm so proud of you. Your light is shining bright."

"Your story is wonderful. I couldn't put it down."

"I have met few people who have such a clear sense of themselves beyond pain and suffering. You are an inspiration."

"I am so impressed with your ability to share your story with others - much good will come of it."

"It is a heartfelt yet uplifting book, your story is."

"One page turned another. I laughed and I cried and I could not stop until I had read every word. An act of courage so uplifting that heals the wounds, and makes everyone who reads it feel thier own worthiness. Don't miss reading this wonderful story by a truly wonderful author."

"Thank you, Jeannine for your words of encouragement, your support of women and children and your generous spirit!"

ENDORSEMENTS

"Holy Paws shows us the resilience and power of the human spirit. It is for anyone who has ever loved an animal or child more than they were able to love themselves. We've all suffered disappointments and traumas of some kind; Jeannine and Baby show us how to leave behind the isolation of fear and guilt, and how to step into the loving arms of an adoring God. Their journey together is an inspiration."

Carla L. Wakefield, M. D.
Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist

"We have known for years that pets improve the quality of life for their owners. Among the many benefits of the human-animal bond are lower blood pressure, quicker recovery from illness and surgery, and longer life. Holy Paws takes the degree to which a dog can help heal to a new level. I strongly recommend this book to everyone."

Vern E. Otte, D.V.M.
Kansas Veterinarian of the Year, 2000

"Each day, Rose Brooks Center provides safe haven and supportive services for women and children who are affected by domestic violence. Survivors can heal from abuse by reconnecting with who they are, receiving support from friends and family or discovering the unconditional love of a pet. Holy Paws is a beautiful illustration of one courageous woman's journey toward healing and self-discovery."

The Staff at Rose Brooks Center
Kansas City, Missouri

"At the heart of Jeannine's story is her awakening to a God of love. Indeed, this is the essence of everyone's healing journey - to remember and reclaim God's unconditional love. Jeannine's courageous and compelling words reach into our hearts to remind us that we are all holy, and nothing can separate us from God. Nothing!"

Reverend Patricia Bass, Senior Minister
Unity Church of Overland Park, Kansas

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