Foreword
It is often said that
life is not about the things that happen to you but instead the grace with
which you handle them. Pamela is an actress I met online, then in person,
then cast in a movie. When I think of Pamela Jansen, I immediately think
of two words: grace and fearlessness.
Grace because she is a model for all who struggle with any of
life’s unexpected challenges, no matter how large or small.
Fearlessness because of her willingness to charge into life’s unknown
adventures, fully aware that the experience of living is the ultimate
gift.
Pamela’s story is inspiring, her courage outstanding.
Despite the fact that
on a night nearly 30 years ago, she wasn’t expected to live through until
morning, her life changed forever,
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Pamela never lets “what happened” define her. She has defined herself!
She is the blonde who raises cane and I can’t imagine a more delightful
storyteller to spend some time with.
Enjoy the gift that is this book by Pamela Jansen. Consider yourself
blessed for having had the opportunity to get to know her a little better.
Remember that every day is a gift. And know that everything that “happens”
in life is an opportunity to display your own fearless grace.
Foreword by Bonnie Gillespie
Cricket Feet Casting
Hollywood, California 2008 |
HOW I BECAME A FEARLESS WOMAN by Pamela Jansen
This is my story about overcoming the
effects of a traumatic brain injury, caused by a car accident. I’m just
the average woman, in other words, I am not placing myself above anyone.
I realized that I had been given a choice between, existing or living a
full life. I chose the latter.
I wanted to share this with the person
who has lost any hope to see that change is possible. I am referring to
the change in our outlook on ourselves. We must love ourselves. I
believe, that
is where inner peace and healing begins.
I knew for a fact that God allowed me to remain here on earth, but there
were times when the reasons seemed very cloudy. I also knew that every
one of us had struggles of some sort or another, but life had become
very challenging for this one. For instance, say that you've been
striving very hard for something and you are just beginning to see the
fruits. Out of the blue, there's this feeling of insignificance
trying to tell you to just give up, that you will never achieve. Don't
listen. All of us have that weak inner self that is so much
against our succeeding because it is scared, and until we learn to
recognize that voice, it has won.
There finally came a time, after 25 years and over 30 surgeries, that I
came to realize this is it, and it's OK to be different. I am enough. My
goals in writing this book are not only to share my story with
accident victims, but also for the person who has not experienced a
physical loss, yet emotionally they are overcome.Ever since the day I began sharing my story with people, it was as if I
had been buttered up and frosted like an angel food cake. It seemed as
if no one wanted to see me hurt any more than I had been already.
To
them,
Pam was such an over comer. What had yet to be witnessed though,
was the anger inside, pushed down so deep that even I was not about to
confront it. I was furious that this happened. Why me? Why not me was
the question that I had to accept. I didn't come to a resolution
for years.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Throughout the years since my accident, I’ve really been brought to an
understanding of myself, of people, of love, rejection, the difference
between loneliness and being alone. I truly cherish my quiet time,
when I’ll sit among the pines and read, or amidst the Poppies,
Hollyhocks, Morning Glories, under a soothing sunshine, just relaxing in
the early hours of the day. I am so thankful to be alive now, that one
rule I’ve made is to always take time to enjoy the simple things in
life, the beauty in front of me and all around me, which I interpret to
mean, always take time to be thankful.
Copyright (C) 2008 by Pamela Jansen
BOOK COMMENTS:
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"Pam, oh Pam... you fight through
formidable obstacles as if they were cardboard cutouts! Kudos to you
on your triumphs! And let me mention to your readers who encounter
their own personal obstacles. USE PAM'S FEROCIOUS SPIRIT AS
INSPIRATION TO HELP YOU PERSEVERE-- I DO EVERY DAY!"
J.P. "Jack" Turnbull, Founder of Actorsite.com
"I saw a photo of Pamela before I ever met her and
couldn't figure out why, even in a picture, she spoke to me so clearly.
Several weeks later I had the pleasure of meeting her in person and it all
made sense. Pamela is a beacon of light. Pamela is the
definition of strength. She has a smile and a laugh that assures you
everything is possible. As they say. 'Some people just have a
way.' Pamela is one of those rare gems."
Stephon Fuller, Actor
"We are incredibly resilient creatures and if you
have experience to ever question that, check out Pamela Jansen and get on
with what you want to do and can. You'll rediscover your passion and
get back at it full throttle. Pam is very inspiring."
Bob Brody/Showfax Bob
Actors Access/Showfax General Manager |
"I am amazed by not only your writing...
but your life story. I admit... I have read it several times since
you sent it... And want to read more... I keep going back for
more. You have the gift of telling stories Pam. The kind of
story telling that takes the reader with you for the ride. The kind
that makes you not want to put the book down. the kind that makes
you want to re-read the story because you are certain that reading it
again will only show you more of the character's life."
Kate Benincasa
Dancer, Singer and Actress
"There is no superhero bigger than Pam Jansen.
Read her life story and your being will be transformed; your troubles will
fade away. Pam Jansen is my superhero. When we crossed paths
her wit and humor made me smile. I read her book and unveiled was a
real life warrior, fearless and unstoppable."
Joe Jeffrey, Executive Producer Actorsite
"Pam is more than fearless. She is
inspirational with a courageous heart. Whenever I am in her
presence, my life is uplifted. She has dealt with her challenges
with grace and humor. Everyone that is touched by Pam is blessed."
Mary Ann Halpin
Photographer Fearless Women: Midlife Portraits
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