Rolanda’s creative writing has won poetry and short story writing awards, and her work has been published in religious and community newspapers. Her numerous awards include the distinguished 2004 Sloan Public Service Award and HBO’s 2004 Beah Richards Spirit Award. In April 2004, New York’s Daily News named her one of the “100 Women Who Shape Our City. Rolanda is currently the Author of two books, “Finally” a collection of inspiration poems and “Beneath His Everlasting Wings.” CWLxPress was allowed the opportunity to speak with Poet Rolanda and find out more about her company “Ro Ro’s Rainbow Communication,” and her books.
Hello Poet Rolanda and welcome to Christian Women Lifestyle Online Magazine. Please tell us a little bit about Ro Ro’s Rainbow Communication and yourself.
What inspired you to become a Christian poet?
I love writing and started writing poetry as a child. It was a way to express myself. I am a Christian, so my poetry reflects me.
Rolanda tell us more about your books.
“FINALLY”, my first book, is a compilation of poems and essay. The poems are cultural and inspirational. These are poems that I wrote over the years and decided to pull them together for publishing. For years, many of my poems were read at events and people would always ask me if I had a book or where they could get the poem, so I published “FINALLY”, and hence the title. It means I finally did it or it’s finally here.
“Beneath His Everlasting Wings” is an anthology. This devotional ministers to those going through difficult situations by providing tools to help readers cope with life challenges. It features a host of authors on diverse topics that affect us in our everyday walk in life. Some authors share personal stories, testimonies and incredible experiences.
Which one of your poems tells the listener/ reader who Rolanda is and allows them to look deeper into your heart?
I would have to say there are several poems – “FINALLY”, “A Tribute to Daddy’s Music”, “Family Memories”, “ Harambee” and “A Tribute to Grandparents Raising Grandchildren”. I can’t narrow it down to one poem since they all express an important part of me.
Some rappers are considered poets. What is your opinion and what does it take to be considered a good poet?
Rap can be a modern day form of urban poetry with the rhyming and word play. I think the reason why it is not considered poetry by some has to do with the way it is written and some of the expressions used. A good poet has to write from the heart and reach people. Readers have to feel the expression. Good poetry will stand the test of time.
What is your favorite scripture and have you written a poem inspired from a scripture in the bible?
My favorite scripture is Lamentations 3:22 and 23.I don’t have a specific poem inspired by that scripture but I think all of my poems reflect God’s faithfulness. The name of my press, RoRo’s Rainbow Communications, was inspired by my love for rainbows, which reminds me that God keeps His promises and that He is faithful.
You provide services to families and those who feel they have been left behind from their love ones what words of encouragement could you give through one of your poems?
From the poem, “Scars”
When I look into the mirror
there are scars that only I can see.
These battle scars serve as a constant reminder to me…
…of the wonders of God’s mercy and of His grace;
They remind me that I can make it as I run this race.
How can the readers learn more about you or order one of your books?
Readers can learn more about me and order my books from my website – www.rorosrainbowcommunications.com or join my facebook page -http://www.facebook.com/rorosrainbow
Thank you Poet Rolanda for this awesome interview. God has truly blessed you with the gift to reach others through your writings and services for families throughout the country. May God Bless all that you do.
Excellent article my dear cousin. Keep up the good and inspirational writing. Wishing you all of God’s blessings. Love