• Daystar University
• 10 Nov, 2023

By Michelle Kaibere

People often ask me, “For how long have you been writing?” It’s a question that frequently comes up, especially when they discover my passion for storytelling. I remember these moments fondly because it allows me to reflect on my lifelong journey as a writer, a journey that started long before I even realized it.

I am Michelle Kaibere, and my love for writing traces back to my early years. At the tender age of 13 months, I discovered my innate desire to create stories, and my journey as a writer officially began. You see, my father, a teacher of English and literature, unknowingly played a significant role in igniting my passion for writing.

I vividly remember eagerly waiting for my father’s return home, not just to see him but also for a hidden treasure he carried – pieces of chalk. I would take those pieces of chalk and use them to write everywhere in our house. This was my canvas, and every wall was a blank page for my imagination. My father would often call me “Wakarura,” and in his wisdom, he did not scold me but guided me in my early writing escapades.

He introduced me to the power of words, explaining the nuances of articles, conjunctions, and punctuation. At that time, I thought it was an unusual way of looking at things, considering most kids would be reprimanded for drawing on the walls. But for my father, it was an opportunity to nurture my budding talent.

Soon, my father bought me a storybook titled “Goat Matata and Cat Akili,” and I was enthralled by the world of storytelling. It was in those pages that I discovered the magic of creating imaginary worlds and characters, where anything was possible. My father’s explanation that “We write to escape to an imaginary world that reality cannot make” was quite inspirational.

My early writing adventures continued, and when I wrote my first composition in school about “My Pet,” it was not a usual pet like a dog or cat. My pet was a cow who could talk and offer comfort when I was sad. My teacher was surprised, but my response was simple: “We write to escape to an imaginary world that reality cannot make.” I was already beginning to understand the transformative power of storytelling.

As I grew up, I realized that the journey of becoming an author was not always smooth. I faced doubts and discouragement, and sometimes I thought of giving up. But I learned on this journey that persistence and determination are the true keys to success. Writing is not just about talent; it’s about the will to keep going, even when faced with obstacles.

Fast forward to the moment when I decided to write my first book. I faced the challenge of not having the right tools to write. My mother, who had always encouraged me to plan and save, came to my rescue. She provided me with a laptop, and my writing journey took a digital turn.

However, the path to becoming an author was far from straightforward.

I encountered feedback from publishers and professors that my work had gaps and needed improvement. At that point, I could have chosen to give up and walk away from my dreams, but I didn’t.

With the support and guidance of my father and professors, I went back to the drawing board, rewriting and refining my work until it reached a publishable standard. It was a time of darkness when I questioned my abilities, but it was also a time of growth and learning.

Throughout this journey, I learned that the path to success is not a single one, and that every challenge is an opportunity for growth. Every critique, every rewrite, every moment of self-doubt ultimately pushed me closer to my dream of becoming a published author.

I am deeply grateful for the unwavering support of my family, my professors, and the people who believed in me, including my Vice Chancellor, who recognized my passion and provided me with the opportunity to pursue my dreams.

My journey has taught me that age is not a barrier to achieving my dreams. It has shown me that ambition should be celebrated, not discouraged. Most importantly, it reaffirmed my belief that God’s plan is always at work, guiding us through our times of light and darkness.

So, to those who are pursuing their dreams, remember my story. Remember that no matter the challenges you face, one moment can change a million after it. Keep pushing forward, keep writing your story, and don’t ever quit. As Michelle Kaibere, I can tell you that with determination and the support of those who believe in you, your dreams can become a reality.

God bless you all in your own unique journeys.