Local writer launches fourth inspirational book
Besides balancing her job as a customs official and being a mother, Mbalenhle Xulu also recently published her fourth volume of short stories, poems and inspirational messages.
KOMATIPOORT – “Once you get started, there’s no stopping. Especially when you have so much love and passion for your craft,” author Mbalenhle Xulu explained ahead of the release of her fourth book.
The Undying Spirit of a Woman Volume 4 follows three others that were published in 2010, 2013 and 2017.
Xulu is new to the Onderberg, having moved here in September with her family, which includes two boys and a girl between the ages of 10 and 18.
She was born and raised in KwaZulu-Natal with three siblings, before doing a National Diploma in Public Management.
She joined SARS Customs as a data capturer in Durban and has since moved through the various divisions to land at the Lebombo Border Post.
READ: Inspirational writer shares God’s message
Xulu explained that writing is a part of her and she started collecting poems, short stories and inspirational messages on topics ranging from abuse and stereotypes in the corporate world to single parenting and the importance of self-love.
“I draw my inspiration from my own experiences and feel the need to use those to transform other people’s lives. They, in turn, can use my life as a mirror and find strength to keep going even in most trying times,” she explained.
It took her at least a year to finalise writing each book and said she finds it easiest to work in the early morning hours when the world is still and quiet. She also keeps a notebook, or in some cases even her phone, handy to ensure she can jot down her thoughts when inspiration strikes.
READ: 10 inspirational quotes from exceptional people
Due to the sensitive nature of some of the topics, she has published some of her work under other names to protect her children.
The main message of her books is, “With all the daily struggles women encounter there is never an option for giving up. One needs to dig deep to find your purpose and fulfil it. Any hurdles along the way bring us lessons that strengthen us, ensuring we come out strong on the other side”.
Xulu has registered to study creative writing to improve her work even further and is considering writing novels in the future.
READ: Writing by hand is making a comeback – it improves your ability to think
The Undying Spirit of A Woman Volume 4 will officially be launched at Elangeni Lodge in KaMhlushwa today.
Find her on Facebook or contact her on 072-638-8384 for more information about where to find her books.
