Interview With Author J.M. Harrison
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Hi, my name is Jonathan and I stumbled into writing by accident. Following a near-death experience in 2007, I became aware of who and what I really was, and started to write. I currently have six published works and have been fortunate to win several awards. Before that, back in the day, I was a singer songwriter in London in the 80’s.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is a collection of awakening poetry entitled EDEN THRIVES WITHIN. It was inspired by the Zen intensive I took part in. The book wasn’t planned, but the poems just happened, pouring out of me when the retreat ended, so I’m honoring that by publishing the collection. I hope they inspire readers to heal, learn and grow.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Not as such. I find the best writing times are early mornings. My dog is always beside me.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I admire the great wordsmiths and poets, such as Wordsworth, Shakespeare and Dickens.
Spiritual teachers throughout the ages from diverse backgrounds have been an influence. I tend to take a universal approach rather than ‘belong’ to any particular belief system or philosophy. In recent times, the words of Ramana Maharshi, Eckhart Tolle, Shunryu Suzuki, David Hawkins, Gary Zukav and many others have all been an influence.
What are you working on now?
I’m working on a new book about the nature of consciousness and the ordinary truth of enlightenment.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
The work I do is about reaching the people who are authentically seeking. I’m not here to sell loads of books, that’s not why I write. I write to help people remember who and what they really are. I write from my spiritual heart as a form of service.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Believe in yourself and work at it. Try to write a few words each day, and remember not to take it personally. Once the ego steps aside, words will flow effortlessly.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Listening to the beautiful sounds in nature; the wind, the rustling leaves, the cheerful song of a small bird.
What are you reading now?
I’m not reading at the moment, as I’m very busy with my non-profit works through The Natural Being Foundation. I do monthly talks, 1:1’s, and volunteer in the Care Industry, so I tend to write (not read) as a daily practice.
What’s next for you as a writer?
To continue to explore ways and means to help people wake up to their most complete understanding of who they are.
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
I’d take one sacred book, a copy of ‘How To Eat Healthy and Live Well on a Desert Island’, one memoir-biography and a joke book. That would be a decent mix.