Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Your Path to Unshakable Happiness is my first book although I have others in the pipeline.
I have taught this form of Buddhism in an Oregon prison and in a substance abuse recovery center as well as worked with newcomers in my Buddhist group. I just love working with people new to the practice.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
I was a counselor for 25 years an so a lot of human suffering. During those years I often wondered if there was anything which could enable people to overcome their problems and become happy.
Then in 1994 I was introduced to a simple Nichiren Buddhist chanting practice and told if I did it consistently I would become happy. I was in a period of major transition and struggling with fears and worries. I was told this was a prove-it-to-yourself practice. You didn’t have to believe anything. Skeptical, I decided to try it. In the next few weeks I saw my life turn around and start to work the way I wanted it to. Over the next few years, I heard the experiences of 100’s of other practitioners, and saw how they had overcome problems and become happy. I was galvanized. Maybe I had found what I’d been looking for.
After practicing for 12 years, I decided that I had to write this book to make this form of Buddhism accessible and share the practice that had been so effective for so many people.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I don’t think so.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Books by Daisaku Ikeda, and Nichiren Daishonin. Ikeda has written about 60 books on this form of Buddhism and Nichiren was the monk who gave us the practice.
What are you working on now?
I’m working on a workbook for people who have bought the book , to lead them step by step into the practice.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’m experimenting to find out. Right now I am doing a KDP giveway for my Kindle book on Amazon from August 28-August 31 at http://www.amazon.com/Your-Path-Unshakeable-Happiness-Practical-ebook/dp/B00LNRX2BI/ref=sr_1_1_title_0_main?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1408732087&sr=1-1&keywords=Margaret+Blaine
Do you have any advice for new authors?
I think it’s important that you have a passion for what you are writing about. When you have that then you become willing to do whatever is needed to write the book and get it out. You have to be willing to step outside your comfort zone.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
When it comes to writing, just take it one step at a time and never give up.
What are you reading now?
I am a prolific reader and usually have two or three books going.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Some short books on various aspects of Buddhist practice.
Author Websites and Profiles
Margaret Blaine Website
Margaret Blaine Amazon Profile
Margaret Blaine’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile