Author: Richard A. Singer Jr.

ISBN: 1-4196-2532-2

The following interview was conducted by: Sue Vogan: To read more of Sue's reviews Click Here:  To read Sue's review of the book CLICK HERE

Sue: Where did you grow up?

Richard: I kind of bounced around while growing up. My first five years were spent in Northeastern Pennsylvania and then my family picked up and moved to Ft. Myers, Florida, where I spent about four years. Following the divorce of my parents, my mother and I moved back to Pennsylvania where I spent the remainder of my childhood.

Sue:  What was your early life like?

Richard:  I was mainly raised by my mother, who is an amazing woman. She always made sure I was safe and my needs were met. My father's alcoholism caused the divorce and effected the time he shared with me. My mother inspired me with everything she did and taught me that I could do whatever I desired with my life. Of course my childhood could have been different, but the way it was molded me into the person I am today. Childhood without a father around was rough, but there was a wonderful step-father from the age of eleven that loved me as well as provided additional inspiration. My father no longer drinks and we are able to have an excellent relationship.

Sue: What do you recall about your father's alcoholism?

Richard: I remember arguments and my father's absences.

Sue: When did your father give up alcohol?

Richard:  He gave it up about eight years ago after learning that he was a diabetic. It's nice to have my father back in my life. He always cared, but he was caught in the grips of alcoholism.

Sue:  Do you have siblings?

Richard: A sister and one brother. They live in Pennsylvania and have children of their own.

Sue: Where did you receive your education?

Richard: I began at Pennsylvania's Luzerne County Community College for my associate's degree in   Social Science. Next, I attended Temple University for almost two semesters. It was here that I had some difficulty with cocaine and returned home to work on myself. It would be a few years and thirteen treatment centers before I returned to my education. I received a scholarship to College Misericordia where I completed my Bachelor's degree in interdisciplinary studies. From there I went to Marywood University where I completed my Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology. I was entering a Doctorate Degree program when I was given an opportunity to relocate to Grand Cayman. Currently, I am in the process of entering another Doctorate Degree program in San Francisco, California which will specialize in Clinical Psychology, the main focus being Humanism.

Sue:  What exactly is a psychotherapist?

Richard:  That's a tricky question. I believe that there are many definitions, however, mine is somewhat simple. To me, it's is a human relationship between two beings working toward personal growth goals. The following are the specifics for my practice:What are the main components of Therapy?

Therapy is -

a journey growth between two human beings;

confidential;

based on honesty between both individuals;

teaches one to take complete responsibility for one's thoughts, feelings,

and behaviors;

non-judgmental;

a process of continuous growth;

based on a strong relationship between both individuals;

an educational experience that focuses on specific learning in the

therapeutic environment in order for this learning to be applied in

everyday life;

will bring out the limitless human potential hidden inside;

requires commitment and dedication between both individuals;

will provide compassion, hope, and support along the journey of life;

will help you become the human being you were meant to be;

consists of a human relationship not manipulation or psychological

techniques;

a GIFT.

Sue:  Why did you choose your current profession?

Richard: To help other human beings enjoy life. Without this purpose, life doesn't mean much to me. I have suffered through addiction, depression, anxiety and countless other difficulties -- I want to be there to help others who may be suffering in much the same ways.

Sue:  Who was there to help you during your recovery?

Richard: My family was always willing to help. However, it wasn't until I surrendered to a force more powerful than myself that began my journey of recovery.

Sue: How long have you been on Grand Cayman?

 Richard:  Seven months.

 Sue:  What has your greatest insight been within these past seven months?

 Richard: The universe takes me to where I am supposed to be and tells me what I am supposed to do - I always have the universal energy guiding me along my journey.

Sue: Do you have a private practice?

Richard:  No. I plan to eventually have a private practice in the United States and in Grand Cayman.

Sue:  When did you first get the idea to write your book?

Richard: I have been writing poems, articles, and daily journaling for myself since recovering from addiction. The idea to write a book came to me years ago, but this specific book started about eighteen months ago. I sat on a rock at the beach and wrote as I tanned. The, I went home and wrote more. This would happen ten hours a day for two months.

Sue: Why did you write your book?

 Richard: I believe the principles discussed in my book can change the world around us if enough people apply the information, quotes and meditations to their daily lives.

Sue:  How long did it take you to put the book together?

 Richard:  Basically, my whole life has been research for this book. As for the formal process, it was about six months of constant hard work on a daily basis.

Sue:  Where did you get the famous quotes?

 Richard:  Most of them came from my enormous collection of books. Some were found online and others were taken from various places. I live these quotes and hope my readers will do the same. These are messages from some of the greatest human beings that ever lived and I believe we should honor them by making their words a part of our lives.

 Sue:  Do you have a writing schedule?

 Richard:  No. I write when my heart and soul feel the need to express something in written form. Passion guides all of my writing.

Sue:  Are there any promotional activities planned to promote your book?

 Richard: I plan on doing book signings in the U.S. and on the islands. I am also working on plans to give a percentage of the profits to a yet undetermined charity.

Sue:  Are you available for public speaking engagements?

 Richard: Yes. The price is always negotiable as long as my expenses are covered.

Sue:  In a paragraph, please describe your book and how you see it benefiting the reader.

Richard:  "Your Daily Walk with the Great Minds of the Past and Present is an escort to personal transformation. It is replete with compelling quotes from the Greats, powerful meditations, guided reading and personal journaling. More than 'just another inspirational book,' it is a journey through change, geared toward seeking higher truth within yourself instead of relying on the world around you to fulfill your needs. The day-today section is filled with quotes from people who have attained greatness, including Lincoln, Gandhi, Einstein, and Buddha; suggested readings and thoughtful questions to ask yourself while journaling. This book lays a foundation for understanding five clinically-proven techniques that can transform lives; Modeling (listening to the Greats); bibliotherapy (gaining insight through reading great books); meditation (allowing yourself to live in the present); journaling (to learn what lies inside you); and visualization (to picture and feel results of your change). Using these methods together can unwrap the potential living in each spirit, and give purpose to life. Your Daily Walk with the Great Minds of the Past and Present is meant to be used continually as a way of life, rather than a book to be read and put on the shelf."

Sue:  What is your best writing tip?

 Richard: Never, never, never give up. Pursue your purpose and passion no matter what stands in front of you.

Sue:  What is your best tip for living life?

Richard:  I believe that the secrets of a successful life are living in the moment, living with a purpose, and aligning with your unique passion.

 Sue:  Please describe life in the Cayman Islands.

 Richard:  Living in Grand Cayman is a dream come true. I am positive that I am here for a purpose and I have gained incredible insight and spirituality since I have been here. There is harmony between different cultures and ethnicities. I love the island people and they truly have gratitude for any help that I may provide. The beauty of the serene waters, the gorgeous beaches and the wonderful people are my entertainment. Cayman means crocodile, which were prevalent when the island was discovered. However, they are extinct now. Scuba diving and snorkeling are popular activities and the marine life is simply amazing.

Sue: What advice would you have for readers who have an idea for a book?

 Richard: Sit down and begin writing through all your self doubts, rationalizations, and negative Comments from your ego. If you have something you need to share then write.

Sue:  Are you married or have children?

 Richard: I am not married, but I live with a Caymanian, Debbie. I believe that I was meant to discover Debbie as well as our unborn twins, Alex and Matt

Sue: Who is your favorite author and why?

 Richard:  That's really difficult. I have so many favorites, but at the present time, I am very inspired by Dr. Wayne Dyer. I feel that he truly expresses the essence and truth of life through his works.

Sue:  What is it that Dr. Dyer has written and how has it inspired you?

 Richard:  His most recent book is The Power of Intention. Dr. Dyer inspires me with his insight into and understanding of the power that surrounds us. He has such a profound level of spirituality and the ability to share it with readers around the world.

Thanks Richard.

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