Interview with Christian Author Janet Perez Eckles

Janet Perez Eckles writes with no eyesight but with insight to help you “see” the best of life. Her passion for life shines through the stories, included in 15 books and in 20 Chicken Soup for the Soul titles, in the two books she authored and numerous magazines including Guidepost as well as in her keynote messages.

“With a bit of sassiness, a touch of humor, and an amiga-to-amiga style, Simply Salsa encourages women to accept God’s call to dance!”

During tough times in our lives, God will be there for us and comfort us. Blindness and other trials made this author the person she is today. Hello Janet. Please tell us about your new book, Simply Salsa: Dancing Without Fear at God’s Fiesta.

Each insight is drawn from examples from my life, other women today and from biblical times. Grounded in Scripture, they provide practical steps to live a life of freedom from insecurities, confidence to face tomorrow, and joy to savor each moment.

Could you please share one experience from your own life that you used in your book?

Excerpt from Chapter 6 from Simply Salsa:
“…But that night, as I faced the torments of an abandoned wife, Jesus saw my plight. How did I know? Because in order to survive, during the day, I began to soak myself in God’s Word through an audio Bible. Every chance I got, I listened to verses, insights, prom¬ises, instructions. I listened till my ears smoked. God’s truth pene¬trated my very soul. That’s how I knew the Lord was close enough to hear my softest whisper.

“Chicas, I put aside my pride, and Jesus in his tender, gentle way gave me some answers. Not because he found me to be extra wise or cute, but because I was desperate. But, as is often the case, he began by asking me a question: Who is the man you think should fill that spot in your heart?

“Being the quick chica that I am, I responded that it was my hus¬band. The man I wanted to win back. He was the person I loved most. He was the man…”

Wow! That must have been a difficult time in your life. Where did you get your ideas for this book?

The ideas bubbled up in me with each episode I faced and from each triumph I savored. And the topics came from hundreds of women who contact me through my ministry.

My blindness taught me to see beyond obstacles. The murder of my youngest son showed me God’s healing power. The financial setbacks proved God’s immense provision and many others. Colorful examples from other women also add richness to each illustration.

What does your family think about your writing?

They are all very supportive, although I think that when I began writing years ago, they were a bit surprised as I quickly learned to use technology for the blind to write. But the support I value the most is that of my husband. He gave his permission to share intimate details of our marriage, hoping to help other struggling couples.

This book sounds like it can help many women in times of despair. Thank you very much for this wonderful interview. Now it’s time to tell us something about the real you that we’ll never forget.

When it comes to adventure, I’m there! Not long ago, I went parasailing, the view wasn’t impressive, but the thrill was worth blogging about. The fun side of me loves to salsa, to dance the cumbia or move to any rhythmic Latino tune. I dance because it’s in my blood. And I love, love to cruise and savor exquisite cuisine much like I delight in the flavor of God’s Word that feeds my soul. 

Thanks, Janet. I know that you will touch many lives with this book. Your life proves that no matter what trials we go through, we may overcome them. The secret is to never lose faith.