Story Call Out

Chicken Soup for the Soul: Finding My Faith 101 Inspirational Stories about Life, Belief, and Spiritual Renewal  Faith is more than reading a holy book or following a set of rules. Faith is a lifestyle; it impacts everything we do. Whether we consider ourselves to be Protestant, Catholic, Jewish, Buddhist, Muslim, Hindu or any other religion, our belief in a higher power directs our lives and our thoughts. But faith is not something we're born with. We may acquire faith through the teachings of our parents or religious leaders. Or we might find faith through an event in our lives that convinces us of the presence of God. Friends and even strangers can bring us into the knowledge that life is more meaningful when we have faith. Everyone's "faith story" is different. Some of us find faith late in life. Others lose their faith after a tragic event or spiritual dry spell, only to rediscover it through a divine nudge. Faith can appear quickly or build up over time. It can hit us like a sledgehammer or whisper in our ear. It can show up in a miracle or in an ordinary event. However faith arrives, it is life-changing and powerful. If you have an inspirational personal story of finding your faith, we want to hear from you! Did a pivotal event bring you to your knees in prayer? Was a special friend or family member the catalyst for your faith journey? Did you lose your faith and then find it again? Was God's presence made known to you in a way that just couldn't be ignored? Your story may even inspire someone else to find their faith! Please remember, we do not like "as told to" stories. Please write in the first person about yourself or someone close to you. Do not ghostwrite a story for someone else. If a story was previously published, we will probably not use it unless it ran in a small circulation venue. Let us know where the story was previously published in the "Comments" section of the submission form. If the story was published in a past Chicken Soup for the Soul book, please do not submit it. If your story is chosen, you will be a published author and your bio will be printed in the book if you so choose. You will also receive a check for $200 and 10 free copies of your book, worth more than $100. You will retain the copyright for your story and you will retain the right to resell it. SUBMISSIONS GO TO http://chickensoup.com Select the Submit Your Story link on the left tool bar and follow the directions. DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS IS DECEMBER 31, 2011.  The book will be published in October 2012.