Ask the Author: John Schlimm
Answered Questions (8)
John Schlimm
Sister Augustine and I were separated in age by fifty-six years, which was very easy to forget since she was so young-at-heart. She would have been 100 years old this year (2015).
Our unlikely friendship taught me that you are never too old or too young to be both a teacher and a student. Life is about learning from one another, and sharing lives—the good and the bad. We are each other’s responsibility. I also learned how to be quiet and listen when an extraordinary teacher is sitting across the table from me.
Our unlikely friendship taught me that you are never too old or too young to be both a teacher and a student. Life is about learning from one another, and sharing lives—the good and the bad. We are each other’s responsibility. I also learned how to be quiet and listen when an extraordinary teacher is sitting across the table from me.
John Schlimm
Yes, there was no doubt that I had been led to where I was supposed to be. From the minute I saw the twinkle in her eyes and heard her chuckle, I knew my life was about to be changed forever. That was my first glimpse of Heaven right here on earth within those walls.
John Schlimm
That’s like asking someone what they love most about a sunny day in paradise. Everything!
I loved Sister’s humility and simplicity, her grace, the peace that surrounded her, the divine wisdom and answers she was willing to share with me, and her witty sense of humor (I can still hear us laughing!).
She reminded me on a daily basis that life is beautiful. No matter what joys or sorrows come our way, she taught me to approach every situation with a smile and gratitude, and the understanding that life is precious and beautiful, in all its many forms.
I loved Sister’s humility and simplicity, her grace, the peace that surrounded her, the divine wisdom and answers she was willing to share with me, and her witty sense of humor (I can still hear us laughing!).
She reminded me on a daily basis that life is beautiful. No matter what joys or sorrows come our way, she taught me to approach every situation with a smile and gratitude, and the understanding that life is precious and beautiful, in all its many forms.
John Schlimm
That beautiful lesson from Sister Augustine was always on my mind as I was writing FIVE YEARS IN HEAVEN. The book itself and my transformation throughout that period and in the years since have confirmed what she was telling me. In fact, that lesson revolutionized how I look at every moment of my life, especially the challenges. I am now grateful for those challenges and hardships, and embrace them as stepping stones in my journey ahead.
John Schlimm
The questions that Sister Augustine and I discussed are universal. No matter who you are or where you are—regardless of age and circumstances—the questions are ones we all struggle with throughout our lives. I invite readers to pull up a chair and glimpse Heaven on earth as I once did in that sacred place and to find their own inspiration, peace of mind, and meaning in the answers that are revealed.
John Schlimm
Sister Augustine once said to me, “Every story has its time to be told, John.” As readers work their way through FIVE YEARS IN HEAVEN, they will eventually learn the extraordinary and divine reason why this book is in their hands. In fact, it almost didn’t happen. But then there came a moment when I knew it was time to share our story with the world.
As for the actual writing process, from start to finish, the book took just over a year to complete. In this case, I had lived the story and it was still crystal clear in my mind, as if it had all just happened yesterday. I tend to write in marathon sessions. Once the words start flowing for a book project, I barely get up from my computer—only to eat, sleep, and shower.
The title, FIVE YEARS IN HEAVEN, is meant to convey how we all have the opportunity to glimpse Heaven right here on earth. In Sister Augustine’s studio and shop, during those heart-to-heart discussions as well as the lighter moments of laughter, I grew to have a better idea of what Heaven is. Of what the reward is that Heaven promises for each one of us. This book will also give readers that glimpse of Heaven, and will inspire them to recognize the same rare moments and people in their lives.
As for the actual writing process, from start to finish, the book took just over a year to complete. In this case, I had lived the story and it was still crystal clear in my mind, as if it had all just happened yesterday. I tend to write in marathon sessions. Once the words start flowing for a book project, I barely get up from my computer—only to eat, sleep, and shower.
The title, FIVE YEARS IN HEAVEN, is meant to convey how we all have the opportunity to glimpse Heaven right here on earth. In Sister Augustine’s studio and shop, during those heart-to-heart discussions as well as the lighter moments of laughter, I grew to have a better idea of what Heaven is. Of what the reward is that Heaven promises for each one of us. This book will also give readers that glimpse of Heaven, and will inspire them to recognize the same rare moments and people in their lives.
John Schlimm
Sister Augustine and I were separated in age by fifty-six years, which was very easy to forget since she was so young-at-heart. She would have been 100 years old this year (2015).
Our unlikely friendship taught me that you are never too old or too young to be both a teacher and a student. Life is about learning from one another, and sharing lives—the good and the bad. We are each other’s responsibility. I also learned how to be quiet and listen when an extraordinary teacher is sitting across the table from me.
Our unlikely friendship taught me that you are never too old or too young to be both a teacher and a student. Life is about learning from one another, and sharing lives—the good and the bad. We are each other’s responsibility. I also learned how to be quiet and listen when an extraordinary teacher is sitting across the table from me.
John Schlimm
To forgive. To be grateful for everything in my life, even the challenges. To laugh a lot.
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