If you told Steve Pemberton that readers would be reaching out to him years after his first book, A Chance in the World, debuted in 2012, he would not have believed you.
So touched by reading about his experience as a foster child living in an abusive home, people have let Steve know about the impact he has had on their lives.
Steve, who also authored The Lighthouse Effect: How Ordinary People Can Have An Extraordinary Impact In the World, is this year’s keynote speaker at CFJ’s 27th Annual Speaking of Women, scheduled for 11 a.m. on Tues., Sept. 10 at The Waterview in Monroe.
Learn more about his journey by reading our CFJ interview below.
“I have people who have reconciled with their families; people who have adopted children. At least ten people have sent me pictures of lighthouses that they have tattooed on a shoulder or cap because of the symbolism of that book. You know, it’s an amazing, amazing thing.”
STEVE PEMBERTON
CFJ:
After A Chance in the World, a lot of people reached out to you about their stories because you inspired them to share.
Steve:
I had not the slightest clue when I was writing A Chance in the World that over a decade later, I would still be hearing from people.
But it’s a very humbling thing at the same time. I have people who have reconciled with their families; people who have adopted children. At least ten people have sent me pictures of lighthouses that they have tattooed on a shoulder or cap because of the symbolism of that book. You know, it’s an amazing, amazing thing.
And yet, it becomes crystal clear to me. And I say, ah, so that’s why I wrote that. Yes, that’s why I wrote that.
CFJ:
Your children, you’re giving them these lessons. Are they following in your footsteps in terms of mentoring or getting involved? Do you feel like it’s impacting them?
Steve:
I think for the three of my children, they all love children, actually. I have this wonderful, wonderful photo because we became grandparents earlier this spring. I have this wonderful photo of my three children.
They were all kind of taking care of Braxton. And it was really powerful to see that. So I think that some lessons kick in later than others.
But there are times that, when you’re a parent, I think all of us go, ‘am I really getting through here?’ But I’ve learned that children don’t always listen when they’re young.
But they rarely fail to follow when they get older. They’re watching and listening, even when we do not realize that they are. I also think that they know what’s at stake here, too.
They have always walked through the world with that last name of Pemberton. And a few years ago, I passed a milestone where I’d had it more than half my life. I wasn’t born with that name. I had to go find it.
They are a fundamental element of ending that legacy.
Next week’s post:
Why Steve agreed to speak at our event.
