Peter Thomas Senese: On Heroes, Miracles, Writing, Faith, and Children

Peter Senese: On Heroes, Books, Writing, Faith, and Science

This past week I had a deeply spiritual moment in my life. One that I would like to share with you.

In essence, I went looking for God . . . and God showed up!

Now, this is what happened.

As many of you know, my and the I CARE Foundation's work assisting children at risk of or who have been internationally kidnapped is exrensive.  Being involved in this arena was not initially my plan, but as I have come to learn and accept, there was a plan for me.

It has been my true honor and privilege over the past few years to help a large and growing number of families who find themselves in the horrific storms of international parental child abduction.

Reflecting on the children who were kidnapped to countries such China, Nigeria, The Ivory Coast, Argentina, Brazil, Russia, India, Sweden, and Mexico, just to name a handful of countries, and who were all safely returned home, the sense of benevolence toward others creates deep bonds not just to those families assisted, but generally, to the majority of families caught in the mayhem of abduction or planned abduction.

Fighting against abduction is not an easy task by any means.

More often than not failure is the drink of the day. With it, there is dire concern for an abducted child's safety and well-being. Anger and despair are common emotions chasing parents seeking to reunite with their child often feel. The heaviness of the sense of helplessness reminds me of a dark, drab, heavy wet black canvas that covers you as the resources needed to recover a child are vast, but by no means come close to guaranteeing a child's safe return.

Lingering always in my mind is the reality that parents do murder their children (filicide).

This thought often causes me to wake up in the night. I often find myself asking, "What can I do better, or what can I do more of to help these families?"

On the abduction prevention front, there exists a different type of battle.  The challenge for a parent attempting to prevent the international parental child abduction of their child is filled with many serious challenges, including the reality that most judges still do not understand the depth of how serious this issue is, and how rules of law and court orders issued by them really have limited bearing on an abduction case should a taking parent successfully be able to snatch a child.

Like anything, balance is essential to a good, healthy, and meaningful life.

THE I CARE FOUNDATION

Now, over the past 4 months, the I CARE Foundation has been involved in numerous successful legal
international parental child abduction recoveries.  And thought I take great pride in each reunification, I am also reminded that there are so many other parents and children desperately trying to reunite. So the victories, if you will, are in some sense in fact reminders of our failures, and need to do more.

This said, I am human. I put my heart out on my sleeve each and every time I get involved in trying to help another parent.

There is never a day that goes by that I have not communicated to at least 3 or 4 parents in crisis, nor the support team that are assisting at-risk or abducted children.

Sometimes that dark, wet, drab black canvas of abduction seems to heavy for my shoulders.

Now those of you who know me know that I hold close to me my spiritual faith. I am by far not perfect: far from it.  But I do believe HE is.

So, last week I traveled to Florida in order to see some of the young girls who were recently freed from the worst of all nightmares that I previously spoke of. Thank goodness each is doing well. Laughter has broken the chains of mankind at our worst.

And I had some professional responsibilities that one day in the near future I am certain to share.

But truth is, I really needed some space and time for myself as the dark cloaks of abduction were enveloping my spirit.

And so, I did what I know and what I love: I went scuba diving with one of my best friends - one who has a heart of kindness as big as the grand canyon (see reference in Chasing The Cyclone). 

So, here we are off of Key Largo, and for whatever the reason, I started the day in reflective prayer.

While heading out to the dive site that I was clueless on what awaited us there, I remember talking to God in my own special way as the ocean's mist cooled my sun-stroked face. Across from me was my pal of nearly 20 years.

I felt my heart slow down. The dark canvas was being pulled back and rays of light were warming my spirit.

About 5 miles from shore, our captain stopped the boat's engine. We were at our dive site.

There he simply said, "This is a very special place for some. Its said that you may find an answer or two down there."

I looked at my pal, shrugged, and began to double check my diving equipment.

Moments later, I plunge into the blue water and descend onto a delightful coral reef filled with scores of beautiful fish.

Still thinking of the children of abduction and the new direction of the Catholic Church I am proud to be a part of and Pope Frances' offerings, I begin to pray.

It was one of the most peaceful times I have ever known.

I was looking for God.  I was looking for Christ.  Well - guess who showed up?

So here I stayed, two tanks later, deep in prayer, asking the God I believe in to help the children who are targeted, taken, trafficked, and abused.

It is a day I will remember forever. A defining day.

 

Today's Heroes - Elisabeth Hirsch: The World Of A Inspiring Author And Remarkable Advocate

Today’s Hero –the remarkable, inspiring author and advocate Elisabeth Hirsch

 Okay, I am a true fan of my friend Elisabeth Hirsch for she represents all the good things I believe in: a tremendous parent, incredible storyteller, active advocate, and philanthropist who has used her voice to help enrich the human condition while assisting others who might have lost their sight of life’s magic.

Elisabeth inspires me.  And though she may not have realized the magnitude of the words I am now sharing, Elisabeth put a unique fire in me a year ago to fight for children in crisis: that fire leading to the accomplishments of the I CARE Foundation, and the organizations various accomplishments protecting children around the world from abduction.

For those of you who do not know Elisabeth Hirsch, she is best-selling writer who has written a collection of diverse, enjoyable, empowering, and entertaining books under the pen name E.C. Stilson. When she is not writing, raising money for such notable organizations such as Angel Watch, Primary Children’s Hospital, Pregnancy Resources, or the American Diabetes Association, Elisabeth is speaking for and playing a key role in the healing process for families in crisis who have experienced the loss of an infant or young child.

Remarkably, Elisabeth used the hardships that she and her family faced during one extremely challenging period in their life when she lost her young son, Zeke, and acts so others will benefit from her experience.

And as explored in this interview, Elisabeth’s willingness and desire to help others means that she must go back to those incredible storms whenever she comes to help other families in crisis. As a parent who had to search the world over for an abducted child, and as a person who, after finding and safely bringing my child home and becoming a highly visible advocate and activist against abduction and trafficking, I know all too well the challenges of advocacy Elisabeth faces because whenever she comes to the aid of those who may be experiencing infant loss, the fiber of her memories are part of her.

Fortunately, Elisabeth Hirsch has such tremendous strength – a strength she has found because of her strong faith in God, her strong relationship and partnership with her husband, the love of her family, and her courage to find her voice.

It is quite remarkable just how much a person can do when they find their voice. Clearly, Elisabeth Hirsch lives in Uhuru, and somehow, I think Noble Peace Prize Laureate Wangari Maathai is looking down from heaven at Elisabeth with a big smile on her face, knowing that this indefatigable women lives unbowed in her morals, ethics, humility, and kindness – and it all of this – Elisabeth Hirsch makes the world a much, much better place.

Raising four beautiful children with her husband Cade, why running her publishing company Wayman Publishing, Elisabeth came to the aid of the I CARE Foundation this past year and stewarded the message of international parental child abduction prevention. Elisabeth’s help was incredible, as is exemplified by the fact that after nearly 30 years of consistent rocketing growth in the U.S. international parental child abduction rate, the reported rate of abductions dropped by 23% over the past two years – the same period when the I CARE Foundation launched a global abduction awareness and prevention campaign that utilized the tremendous reach of parenting writers such as Elisabeth Hirsh.

Elisabeth Hirsch is a hero to so many, including her family, her friends, and all those she has directly helped; however, Elisa’s work, her spirit, and her willingness to help others in need – and the impact she has made, represents all that mankind aspires to be. She is what ‘Today’s Heroes’ symbolizes – and represents the best in all of us.

It is my privilege to share this interview with my friend and hero, Elisabeth Hirsch.

1. You have written several best sellers under the name E.C. Stilson, including notable titles such as one of the most important books I have ever read, The Golden Sky. Can you share with us a little about this story, and what your purpose was in writing it?

I was nineteen years old, already a pregnant mother and lonely wife, when I found out the child I carried had serious birth defects. I wrote everything down, detailing how my baby died and my marriage fell apart, but through it all I found hope, redemption, and even forgiveness in the most unlikely of places.

A few years later, I reread my own words and found miracles that only hindsight could bring. So many amazing things had happened, showing me God was there, always with me, always guiding me.

I knew others going through hard times could read my story and see the miracles throughout their own trials. And understand that at the end of every storm, there is a golden sky.

2. Why did you choose the name E.C. Stilson to pen under?

My nieces and nephews called me "EC" because "Elisa" was hard to say. I always thought that was fun since my first name starts with an "E" and my husband's begins with a "C." Cade's helped me so much with my memoirs, I wanted the "EC" to represent both of us. "Stilson" is my maiden name, and I used it to honor my dad.

3. During World War II, women in the media such as Jacquelyn Saix (one of television’s first producers) and Mary Walsh Hemingway (one of the first women war correspondents) began to transform who, how, and what news was reported, and how this information was shared. Moving forward nearly 70 years, parenting blog writers are changing the landscape once again on how information is shared and utilized. Which makes the ‘The Crazy Life of a Writing Mom’ irresistible! Can you tell us about this blog and what value do you see in it?

Humor and laughter have more power than most realize. As parents, it's easy to get lost in the stressful circumstances; we forget how much fun life can be. My blog tries to bring that back, by telling silly stories about parenting, potty training, school bullies, etc. My hope is to help people see how any circumstance can be humorous, if looked at differently. A happy parent, who's involved with their children, will most likely raise happy kids.

4. How important of a role do parents who write and share their views and perspectives on the Internet play in directing or cultivating public perception or creating new trends?

Parenting blogs have grown substantially in the last few years. When googling terms, it's amazing how many times I'm directed to parenting blogs. My blog alone has been viewed over 360,000 times. The blogging community has a strong voice, the ability to be heard more easily by so many people--it's phenomenal. These writers' insights and knowledge are guiding others, making them feel less alone in our technologically evolving world.

5. Would you say a mobilized group of parent blog writes has the ability of creating a major impact on an issue or social cause, and if so, can you give a specific?

I think anyone with a strong voice has the opportunity to influence others by standing for what they believe in. Blogging has been a gift to those willing to speak out. With good blog titles and topics, writers now have the capability to be heard. I remember seeing this first-hand when I wrote about my son who died. I went to over 100 other blogs and asked them to join me in a 3-day event where we'd each share stories about our loved ones who have passed on. This event exploded and was everywhere within the following days. That single event jump-started my writing career.
You can see that promo post here:

http://ecwrites.blogspot.com/2011/09/only-50-more-days-until-golden-sky.html

6. It seems to me that it took a certain amount of courage when you found your voice. What would you tell others who struggle to find the courage to find their own voice, and what could they do to alleviate any fear they may have?

It's still hard for me to believe in myself and my voice. Even while being interviewed on the radio, or while talking at signings, I'm still nervous. But then I remember why I started in the first place. What was so important that this journey became worth the fight? That's when I think of my son. I wanted his story out there, something that he'd left behind so he could look down from Heaven and realize I will never forget him. His life was important--it had meaning. That strength keeps me going strong.
We all have stories to tell. The reason we initially started looking for our voices, is the same force that will inspire us to find our way.

7. You are a very humble lady, yet your writing and advocacy has helped so many others. Can you share with us one story of how one of your books helped another?

. . . where to begin. I've been so blessed, and many of the things that have happened to me seem a bit miraculous. The one story that sticks out happened in winter of 2011. I'd just started Wayman Publishing and published "The Golden Sky." It was an emotional time because Cade and I both thought about Zeke's short life. On November 18th, Zeke's birthday, we went to his grave and left "The Golden Sky" there. It was my final way of saying goodbye. I can't describe how that felt. It was very bittersweet. At the time I had a romantic notion that God and Zeke were guiding me. I'd somehow leave the book and then the right person would find it and read it.

Well, it happened! In December I received an amazing email. It started like this:

"Hi, I am sure you do not know me. You see Zeke's grave is right next to my sister's grave."
The email continued, telling me how she'd read my book and now hoped her sister was taking care of Zeke in Heaven! We're still in contact through Facebook. I'm so thankful that she read Zeke's book.

8. Losing a young child is a parent’s biggest fear, and it is something you have not only written about, but you have become a teacher, healer, and friend to so many others who have had to face this issue. What are a few important things that you teach others facing this crisis that can also carry over to others not facing this issue?

Keep Going
Some days it might seem simpler to stop facing our problems. But that's not the easy way out. Giving up and repressing feelings leads to worse problems later on--trust me, I know. Whether you want to be a warrior or a wimp, give yourself time to grieve (and deal with things) so you can eventually find the issue and thus the resolution.

Find the Issue--Find the Resolution
We all go through tough times and grieve in different ways. If we can discover what's truly upsetting us about any situation, then we can discover how to change things. For example, when Zeke died I had the hardest time thinking that he'd never grow up--I'd never get to see him become a man. Why? Was there something I could do to make things better? He'd died and the sadness lingered for years, just causing more pain and hurt. When I identified the problem's root, I realized I could release his book, in that way his memory would live on even if he could not. By Identifying this deep issue, I found a resolution. And it worked!

The loss still hurts sometimes, but I feel much better, as if I've done as much as I can to make a bad situation better somehow.

9. You have helped raise money for such organizations such as Angel Watch, The Pregnancy Resource Center, and Primary Children’s Hospital. Why?

All three of these places helped me and Zeke. The Pregnancy Resource Center encouraged me to continue with the pregnancy. Angel Watch sent counselors to our house. They helped us cope before and after Zeke was born. They also helped Cade and I mend our failing marriage. And Primary Children's, because that's the only home Zeke even knew.

10. When the I CARE Foundation sought your assistance by asking you to lend your voice and help steward the messages about the realities of international parental child abduction, you did not hesitate to do so. Why?

I believe in the I CARE Foundation. They fight for the well-being of children, for the solace and strength of parents who are facing terrible tragedies. I don't know what it's like to face child abduction, but I do know what it's like to lose a son. For these reasons and many more, the I CARE Foundation is close to my heart.

11. During the 2012 fiscal year, outgoing cases of international parental child abduction declined by 15% that originated from the United States because there was an increase in abduction prevention litigation. How important is it that other parent blog writers write about social issues that impact children?

Bloggers have more power than they know. If people would band together and write about this, our voices would be heard--and readers would take action. Think about "The Golden Sky"; if a single book--from a previously unknown other--can become a success from a single blogging launch, then imagine how an event like this could raise abduction prevention awareness!

12. Can you name three of your favorite books?

The Bible--because you can't get better than that.

"Gone With the Wind"--because Scarlett is so real, loathsome and likable--all at the same time.

"The Sum of All Men" in David Farland's Runelords series. He weaves social injustice into a fantasy story that I'll never forget. Imagine a world where people could sell their intellect, beauty, and physical strength. Now imagine that same world, where these attributes can be taken by kings, leaving peasants brainless, ugly and physically marred as long as the omnipotent king lives.

13. I just ordered ‘The Sword of Senack’ – a magical YA adventure story about three siblings trying to find one of their lost siblings. Where did this story originate from, and can you give us a little insight?

When Zeke died, my oldest daughter had a very hard time. She'd ask what death is, and why Zeke never came back. I answered the best I could, but when answers no longer helped, I started telling her an allegory. The story is about a brave boy who takes an underwater adventure. "He had to go," I told my daughter. "It was his destiny." And through that story, my daughter slowly came to terms with her brother's death. Few know of the story's deeper meaning, they just think it's a fun MG fantasy. But it's a special book to me, because it represents how my daughter found healing.

14. You’re a wife, a mother, a writer, a publisher, an activist, and an advocate. What do you do for fun that is . . . well, just for you?

I love hiking. I also enjoy playing my violin in the mountains. This doesn't happen often, but when it does I feel like all of my worries fade--even if only for a moment.

Don't tell my mom, but I'd also like to get into skydiving. I went once and now I can't stop dreaming about doing again--it was UNREAL!

15. The word ‘Uhuru’ means to live in freedom by being and living unbowed in your morals, ethics and principles. How important is it to live in freedom?

Without morals, ethics, principles and freedom of our minds, who are we? If we expect to take life by the reins and truly live, we MUST understand ourselves. That is true freedom, knowing ourselves and having the strength to be who we are. I'm still trying to learn this myself, but I feel as if writing my memoirs has helped me grow more than anticipated.
Living in freedom may be the single most important aspect of living, because being "free" entails so much.

16. As an accomplished writer who has created an impressive, diverse body of work, what three things would you tell inspiring writers?

Make a Goal and Stick to it!
Many writers don't go anywhere because they can't finish a book, or they won't commit to writing consistently. Even if it's just a few minutes a day, if someone wants to be a writer they must take the time to write. Writing needs to be taken seriously. Find time. I get up at 5am just so I can write. If I stop being consistent, my writing will suffer.

Don't Let Anyone Pull You Down
I could probably line a swimming pool with the rejection letters I've received. It's hard hearing criticism from publishers, editors and even friends. But you have to keep going. Yeah, I could swim in the hundreds of rejection letters I've gotten. You know what else I could do? I bet I could make a book using the wonderful letters I've received from people who've read my books and enjoyed them. I've met amazing people. I founded Wayman Publishing. I helped donate thousands of dollars to different organizations. None of that would have happened if I just gave up and swam in my own doubts. Now think of your writing--imagine what you could do!

Find Your Purpose and Hold onto it
Everyone is special. Everyone has something important to offer the world. Once you've found what inspires you to write, keep that close. Just like I wrote in question #6: The reason we initially started looking for our voices, is the same force that will inspire us to find our way.

17. When creating a story, how do you map out the direction you’re going?

Since most books are about 60,000 words long, and I write nearly 2,000 words per chapter, I start by creating 30 chapter titles. These must obey the arc of a good story, with the mid-point and climax carefully placed. I usually think of my resolution and then start my story in the complete opposite place. For example, if my story will end with a confident woman who is financially stable and happy, in the beginning she'll be poor and insecure. Every chapter must describe her growth through subplots etc.

18. What is next for E.C. Stilson?

I'm currently working on "Quest for Larin," the second book in the Mer-son Cycle.

19. What comes to mind from the phrase, ‘Global Citizen’?

I love this concept; it brings such a feeling of unity and hope. This really is a small world. With the way things are going, we're all so easily connected, unique citizens, all equal with the ability to help each other succeed.

20. Can you tell us something funny that happened to you during your life?

I've had so many hilarious things happen to me. But just this morning I talked with a friend about my husband. Cade's fine now, but recently, he was very ill. I had no idea he was actually that sick. I kept saying, "Honey, you need to get out of bed. You'll feel better"
"I can't move," he groaned.
Was he serious? Suddenly I had a flashback of myself being in labor. I breathed through each contraction. My mom and mother-in-law looked worried, praying for me. Then Cade started hyperventilating in the back of the room. Everyone gasped.
I was the one in labor! I didn't have a epidural, thinking I'd save my baby from any drugs. Yet Cade pulled out a damn paper bag, breathing into it, clutching the thing like it held the secrets of life. Then my mother-in-law and MY mother left me as another rolling contraction came. I breathed. Cade breathed. Apparently Cade breathes harder because everyone held his hands and wiped his sweaty forehead! Our families left soon after to get Cade a sandwich--my favorite kind. I couldn't eat, yet he ate the thing, taking big breathes in between each bite. The ketchup from the sandwich kept falling, splashing beautifully onto a napkin on Cade's lap, all during my intense contractions.
"I can't move," Cade groaned again, bringing me back to the present moment.
We went to the hospital. This time Cade rested in the hospital bed while I watched from the sidelines. "You have an infection in your lungs," the doctor said. He had such wild white hair, like Einstein. "Another day and you might have died," he told Cade.
It was my turn to start hyperventilating. I hadn't thought Cade was sick. I'd been so rude! I sat down and breathed hard, trying to ground myself. My mother and mother-in-law instantly ran over to make sure I was okay. They held my hands. They wiped my forehead. . . .
After the doctor left the room, I caught Cade's eyes. He kept staring, wondering why everyone was fawning over me when he was the one in pain.

(End Interview)

As I have gotten older and perhaps a bit more thoughtful, I have often thought about God’s will.  In these thoughts, I have come to believe that God so much bigger than any one religion, but the message God shares with all who believe in the Divine’s existence crosses all faiths: be courageous in your life to be kind and compassionate to one another.  In doing so, I think we allow the God each of us respectively believes in to come into our heart and guide our life. 

When I think of the goodness of having God’s spirit exist on our earthly world, it is rather easy to see the Divine’s presence in the nature of mankind by simply paying attention to my remarkable friend, Elisabeth Hirsch for Elisa, as she is also referred to, is what is right about this world.

On one final note, my life has become enriched over this past year that Elisabeth and I have become friends.  I not only have been open to the lessons she teaches by her action, but I have been empowered to share my voice.

Elisabeth Hirsch exemplifies what it is to be a Hero for she has made our world a better place for many.

Be inspired - I invite you to read about ElisabethHirsh and Elisa's publishing company, Wayman Publishing. Click here to purchase any of EC's publications on Amazon.

Peter Thomas Senese Donates 100% Of Book Revenue to Hurricane Sandy Relief Efforts

In the wake of Hurricane Sandy and the devastation it has caused on communities everywhere, I will be donating 100% of my author revenues generated from my various books, incluidng the critically acclaimed international legal thrillers 'Chasing The Cyclone', the international financial thriller 'The Den of the Assassin', and the theological thirller 'Cloning Christ', as well as all other publications. 

                                            

                                                           Hurricane Sandy Has Destroyed The Lives Of So Many

Should you desire to purchase a hardcover copy of any of my books, I would prefer you purchase this direrectly from my website as I will be able to include a dedication of your chosing.


As for e-book purchases, may I suggest shopping on either Barnes & Noble or Amazon.

The needs of the individuals in the areas hit hardest by Hurricane Sandy are immense.  I will donate all revenue to help others up until at least December 1st, 2012, at which time a deciscion will be made as to what will be done next as my book revenues previously helped finance the I CARE Foundation - which has successfully rescued and safely brought home numerous internationally kidnapped children.

In advance, thanks for your willingness to help.

Peter

Read the essay, 'Trying To Wrap My Head Around Sandy'

'Chasing The Cyclone's Peter Thomas Senese and The I CARE Foundation Has Helped Protect Dozens Of Targeted Children

Chasing The Cyclone
by
Peter Thomas Senese 

I am pleased to share my deeply inspired novel Chasing The Cyclone continues to have a significant impact on a large and growing number of children and targeted parents of international abduction.  In fact, the natural progress of events beginning from the initial e-book publication of Chasing The Cyclone led to the creation of the not-for profit I CARE Foundation I am the Founding Director of.  I am happy to share that through the efforts of the I CARE Foundation dozens of children who have either been internationally kidnapped or who have been targeted for international abduction have either been safely reunited with their families or were actually protected from abduction, and remain safely home.

This is a fairly significant statement when considering that the foundation's volunteer reunification efforts represents a  sizeable percentage of all American children coming home (our efforts to reuntie children kidnapped to America are also noteworthy). 

With 100,000 to 125,000 American children and nearly 20,000 Canadian children expected to be internationally kidnapped over the next 10 years, the success of Chasing The Cyclone and the I CARE Foundation is tempered by the reality that there is a long way to go. This notion is underscored by the reality that only 10% of all internationally kidnapped children come home. Think about it for a moment: three professional baseball stadiums filled with defenseless children - all disappearing.  The majority of children will never come home. Some simply can't: they are gone forever.

And this sentiment is not a piece of fiction: it is reality.  And it sucks. And it is worth standing up and fighting for.

Best-Selling Author
Peter Thomas Senese 

I think for any author, the biggest goal when writing any book is to have an impact on your intended audience.  The financial success of a book is obviously important; however, the desire to influence others is the real desire.

And with dozens of children either rescued or protected from abduction thus far, combined with the many initiatives the I CARE Foundation has under way that will further help others, I am pleased with Chasing The Cyclone's impact thus far. 

 

The American Flag
and
U.S. Senate Citation

Having seen first-hand the horrors of abduction, I am committed to continuing fighting this fight.  Fortunately, governments from around the world are taking notice of the I CARE Foundation's work - which means we're making a difference. 

In fact, it was a tremendous honor and humbling experience to receive this majestic American Flag flown over the United States Capitol Building at the request of the Senate in appreciation for my volunteer work and support of the I CARE Foundation. 

From Left to Right
Chris Morris, Eugene Pothy &
I CARE Founder Peter Thomas Senese

Additionally, last month I had the opportunity to participate in the United State's Department of State's 'International Visitor Leadership Program' at the United State's Mission to the United Nations concerning the foundation's advanced work in child abduction and human trafficking prevention.  It was a great honor, particularly when considering some of the incredible global leaders who have previously participated in the program. 

Unquestionably, the publication of 'Chasing The Cyclone' has helped many parents and children:  new laws have been passed, new policies implemented, and new legislation that could help stop abduction and trafficking is on the horizon - and children are home. 

My financial commitment to the I CARE Foundation and support of the organization's efforts to help children remains steadfast as shared by I CARE Board Member, Hague Convention Attorney Network member and highly respect attorney Joel Walter in a very kind article he shared on his website. In fact, I have donated 100% of all of my various novel's proceeds over the past year to the I CARE Foundation: it is a commitment I intend to continue. 

Being able to assist the I CARE Foundation has been a responsibility of mine that in truth has been a privilege to uphold.   But truth is, nearly seven years ago I never even knew the collective words international parental child abduction were.  Nor did I realize that I was one of a surging number of individuals who were not familiar with this vonocular.  And quite frankly, at that time, most individuals in society did not realize the severity of this crime or what a chasing parent will go through to safely bring home their child.  Nor did they realize that sociopathic tendancies of an abusive abductor, who, not only would kidnap a child, but would attempt to slander and defame the targted other parent because international law has established a loophole known as the 'Abductors Defense' (Hague Convention: Article 13) that know targeted parent is immune from.

Who knew that during the time I was Chasing The Cyclone, the promise I made to the God I worship would lead to my volunteer advocacy for children, with the result being the I CARE Foundation and all that the organization has achieved.                                     



THE I CARE FOUNDATION

From the seed that is Chasing The Cyclone, this is a sampling of the things that have been accomplished:

                                                                 

1. The creation of the 501-C-3 Not-for-profit ‘International Child Abduction Research & Enlightenment’ Foundation' (I CARE Foundation)  that was established to and has successfully rescued numerous internationally kidnapped children while conducting advanced research in the area of IPCA in order advocate for the creation of new laws that will protect children from international kidnapping.

2. Under the I CARE Foundation’s leadership, we have built a large national pro bono network of lawyers willing to assist parents who are targeted to have a child internationally kidnapped or who have had a child abducted while also launching a successful and ongoing recruitment campaign for lawyers to join the United States Department of State's Hague Convention Attorney Network; and,

3. Overseeing the legal rescue and reunification of numerous internationally kidnapped children; and,

4. Provided necessary resources required for numerous lawyers and targeted parents who were trying to prevent their child from being internationally abducted (see 'Senese Creates Arsenal Of Tools To Help Lawyers and Targeted Parents'); and,

5. Board Member Carolyn Vlk wrote the legislation for the State of Florida's Child Abduction Prevention Act while Board Member Peter Thomas Senese orchestrated lobbying efforts that led to the unanimous passage of the CAPA legislation into now effective law; and,

6. Successfully advocated for the federal implementation of the 'Prevent Departure Program' to be used as a tool to stop international parental child abduction; and,

7. Writer and advocate behind legislative initiatives to prevent international child abduction by modifying the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative; and,

8. Writer and advocate behind legislative initiatives to prevent international child abduction by modifying the Prevent Departure Program II; and,

9. The co-authoring and creation and FREE publication of the extensive 'The World Turned Upside Down' open-tablet E-book resource guide on IPCA; and,

10. The creation and production of the FREE ongoing educations documentary film on IPCA titled 'Chasing Parents: Racing Into the Storms of IPCA; and,

11. The co-authoring of the extensive research report titled 'Crisis In America: IPCAToday'; and,

12. The co-authoring of the extensive research report titled 'International Child Abduction and Human Trafficking In The Western Hemisphere'; and,

13. The creation of one of the most informative websites on IPCA; and,

14. The ongoing efforts to create additional federal laws that evolve around child abduction prevention.

15. The stout support and advocacy that led to the passage of on line impersonation laws such as those passed in the states of California and New York.

16. I have used significant book publication revenue to finance the recovery of internationally kidnapped children.

17. Upcoming I CARE Foundation sponsored educational legal training seminars for lawyers in the area of IPCA.

18.  A large and growing grass-roots effort to educate parents about the risks ofIPCA and child trafficking.

19.  A promise to continue my efforts to educate society about the issues of IPCA, use my resources whenever possible to assist others, and to work toward the passage of new laws that will protect children, as demonstrated in the sworn testimonials of my conduct.

20.  Recently participated in the U.S. Department of State's United State's Mission's International Global Visitor Leadership Program at the Untied Nations. 

All from a book called 'Chasing The Cyclone' that was inspired by the time in my life I was required to chase into the storms of abduction.

One final note, and this is personally extremely important to me to share.  Before I raised my voice and tried to make a difference in the fight against IPCA, there were, as there are today other wonderful advocates who have fought so hard to protect children by raising their voice, using their resources to fight a good fight, and to pass new laws that will protect children.  I recognize and applaud each of these individuals who make up the community of child advocates who are dedicated to protecting children.

For more on me, Peter Thomas Senese, I invite you to visit my official website and the offical website of Chasing The Cyclone.  For more on my writing or to purchase any of my publications, please visit Amazon or BN.  Click here to read an interview I really enjoyed that was conducted by top parenting site Mom-ology.

Peter Thomas Senese: The Night Before An Internationally Abducted Child Comes Home

FEELING LIKE I AM IN LABOR

Best-Selling Author
&
Child Activist
Peter Thomas Senese 

As a father, activist, author, and in my role as the Founding Director of the I CARE Foundation, I have been involved in providing assistance to a significant number of international child abduction reunifications that have occurred around the world.

in the wake of three more illegally detained children under the rules of the Hague Convention coming home - literally they're on an airplane crossing the Atlantic Ocean as I type - I have this feeling once again that no doubt is similiar to when a mom goes into labor because outside of dialating and a few other physical issues - I have all the emotional symptoms!

You see, when a child is taken, there is a good chance that they may be gone forever. Statistically, children of international parental child abduction do not come home.  In fact, only about 10% of these children are do. 

So in the rare case that a child is safely reunited with their targeted parent, there is a very deep and emotional celebration of life.

Chasing The Cyclone
By
Peter Thomas Senese

For any parent who has found themselves Chasing The Cyclone of abduction, the anxiety and concern are so overwhelming.  You see, for many, the process of recovery has been emotionally draining, financially devastating, and filled with legal misstep after mistep since all to often the laws that they count on to protect them and their children are not upheld or implemented.

So when a child or children of abduction are coming ordered to return back to their country of original jurisdiction, the extraoridnary happiness you would expect a parent to feel is tempered with guarded concern that the other parent will either attempt to file new legal papers in court allowing them to continue to remain in the country they are presently in, or, that they will depart from the country as ordered - but attempt to disappear in another country, including perhaps a naiton that is not a member of any international legal convention such as the            Hague Convention. 

And disappearing . . . its not as hard to do for a taking parent should they have enough resources and advanced planning: something most of these parents have previously demonstrated they have capability of doing. 

Thus it is important to make sure that chidlren who are ordered to be returned by the international courts  do not disappear again. I and others have been down that road before. And it is terrible - and demonstrative or the narcism and sociopathic behavior of child abductors.

The I CARE Foundation

But today is a good day because these children are coming home.  And they are in route.  And there is a wonderful parent in Philadelphia anxiously waiting to hold his children.

Knowing the children are on the airplane and in route provides a sense of great comfort.  However, the days building up to their departure are filled with stress and concern.   The worry of more legal proceedings or disappearnace are real.  You guard best you can against disappearance.  You try not to get too exicted because you have been let down before on numerous occassions ... but you're excited because you love your children.  

And you wait ... you wait for your child or children to safely arrrive home.  

Today is a good day.  Three children are on their way home.  

In my own way, I hope that the children and their parents find peace, acceptance, and happiness.  May the storms be over for all of them, and let the rays of sunshine shine on each of their faces. 

One final note: I am so proud of my friend for all he has done to protect his children's rights to have hm and his family in their life.  After hundreds of thousands of dollars, years of litigation, and an emotional roller-coaster steeper and with more twists, turns, loops than any other roller-coaster, he never gave up on them.  His children should be so proud of their father, for he in an incredible man who loves them greatly.

Cloning Christ? Best-selling Author Peter Thomas Senese Says Anything is Possible

Best-selling author Peter Thomas Senese says "Cloning Christ" is a possibility. The author is pleased to announce that he is donating 100% of his royalties derived from "Cloning Christ", "The Den of the Assassin" and "Chasing The Cyclone" to the I CARE Foundation, a non-profit established to protect children from international abduction.

Los Angeles and New York (PRWEB) December 04, 2011

"Cloning Christ." The words conjure thoughts of blasphemy - or do they?

"The Den of The Assassin." Is there really a hidden world on Wall Street?

"Chasing The Cyclone." How would you find one young child abducted and taken to the other side of the world without a trace - a world of 7 billion people?

Welcome to the world of best-selling author Peter Thomas Senese.

Peter Thomas Senese is pleased to announce that he will be donating 100% of his royalties earned from now through December 31st, 2011 on E-book sales of select publications from the novelist's international thrillers including the geopolitical espionage thriller "The Den of the Assassin," the international theological thriller cliff-hanger "Cloning Christ," and the riveting, deeply personal global legal drama "Chasing The Cyclone." to the I CARE Foundation.

Mr. Senese commented, "I am very pleased to continue my financial commitment toward the I CARE Foundation and to helping parents and children targeted for the crime of international parental child abduction. IPCA is a growing problem that could victimize well over 100,000 American children alone over the next decade. The I CARE Foundation is trying to do something about it - and I support their efforts completely."

The gut-wrenching, inspirational theological thriller "Cloning Christ" jettisons readers to the spiritual and physical battlefront of good vs. evil in an electrifying, bone-chilling story of faith that evolves around the global manhunt for Dr. Max Train, a once-devout, now faithless genomic scientist who may be in possession of the True Cross of Jesus of Nazareth. "Cloning Christ" will cause heart-racing readers to contemplate the challenges between science and faith while contemplating physical and spiritual issues we all face today in our pursuit to enrich the human condition and experience.

Top critic Harriett Klausner commented, "Fans will relish this thriller. The tale is loaded with action yet uses the characters as symbols of mankind similar to a medieval passion play like Everyman. The cast represents the faithful, the disbelievers, the dividers (torn between science and religion) or the selfish. "Cloning Christ" brings the debate of religion vs. science to the forefront in an exciting manner that focuses on the sacredness of life."

Mr. Senese commented, "Cloning Christ is an absolute theological thriller that takes the reader directly to the question, 'How would you clone Jesus of Nazareth - The Christ'? In my interpretation of that question, my answer is to follow His teachings - and that is to act best I can in kindness towards others while also being mindful not to be taken adavantage of in such acts."

"The Den of the Assassin," the spine-tingling Post 9-11 financial espionage and geopolitical thriller that catapults an unsuspecting young Wall Street banker, Tyler Boxter, into a world of incomprehensible possibilities and insane apocalyptic challenges was recently released on E-book (second edition) to the praise of readers.

Renowned critic Daniel Jolley said of "The Den of the Assassin," “This is one seriously good thriller. Billed as “a novel of international finance and espionage,” Den of the Assassin is a super-realistic exploration of frightening possibilities, unsurpassed heroism, Lucifer-like evil, and terrorism of the worst kind … Peter Thomas Senese displays a wealth of knowledge of geopolitics, espionage, and international finance, describing all the technical intricacies of the story’s elements and implications with great attention to detail -without ever letting the pace get bogged down or become confusing to the reader. He also keeps a number of secrets close to the vest, saving them for just the right time in the story. This serves to make the book thoroughly believable and increasingly suspenseful. There’s no shortage of action here . . . Many a writer of thrillers seem to drop the ball somewhere in the middle of their novels, but Peter Thomas Senese’s knowledge of geopolitics, international finance, and 21st century terrorist threats keeps the fires of detailed complexity and story evolution stoked and red-hot for the entire ride. Tyler Boxter is no James Bond, but "The Den of the Assassin" proves to be just as exciting as any 007 caper – and much more realistic.”

The highly anticipated release of Peter Thomas Senese's deeply personal novel, 'Chasing The Cyclone' on E-book that critics have called a heart-pounding international legal thriller of a father and son's unbowed and unbreakable love and belief in one another in lieu of a wicked international child abduction as told in a way very few writers ever could, and that was inspired by Peter Thomas Senese's unimaginable experiences as a parent chasing the cyclone of international child abduction is now available on E-book and will be available in hardcover during the Christmas holiday week.

Highly acclaimed critic Dr. Grady Harp stated, " ... As if the fast paced energy of this story weren't enough to satisfy the reader, Peter Thomas demonstrates his quality as a writer of distinction on many levels ... this impossible to put down book, readers will likely return to these moments of intelligence Peter Thomas shares."

The author commented on his "Chasing The Cyclone", "It is very difficult to understand the complex nightmare any parent faces when their child is internationally abducted by the other parent. Not only is it a crime, but it is complete and utter abuse as cited by our and many governments across the globe. But imagine - imagine trying to find a child who is taken to an unknown location somewhere in the world. Can you really imagine ever finding that child? Now imagine if that child is your child. Welcome to my "Chasing The Cyclone".

Peter Thomas Senese commented on his work and his continued support of the I CARE Foundation when he said, "Due to circumstances that previously occurred in my life, I have become an advocate of international child abduction prevention. I am extremely pleased to direct all my royalties' earnings to the foundation, as it continues its herculean effort to build the "Hague Convention Attorney Network" so that targeted children of abduction will have resources available to come to their aid."

Peter Thomas Senese is a storyteller focusing on messages in all formats that bespeak global connectivity. He is actively involved in supporting issues that impact the lives of children, including demonstrative support to keep our nation's public libraries properly funded and open seven days a week; and, actively engaged in numerous and extensive activities surrounding international child abduction prevention; and, actively advocating for new legislation that will protect children and others from malicious online impersonation.
The writer, filmmaker, and dedicated child advocate previously commenced his E-book series release with "The World Turned Upside Down" which he co-authored with Carolyn Ann Vlk. "The World Turned Upside Down" has been called a landmark resource guide on international parental child abduction prevention, and was made available as a free E-book so that those individuals in need of the highly informative information contained in the publication would have immediate access to it.

Please visit the official website of Peter Thomas Senese to read more about Peter's writing and advocacy work.

Best-Selling Author's Extraordinary Experience 'Chasing The Cyclone' Of International Child Abduction Shared In Highly Anticipated Novel

Novelist Peter Thomas Senese was extraordinarily busy with his career until he was unexpectedly forced to race into the unthinkable nightmare known as international parental child abduction. Inspired by the writer's experiences, the novel CHASING THE CYCLONE has been critically hailed as a fast-paced, educational mystery and legal thriller, and Peter Senese as a masterful storyteller. Since this time, the author has become an outspoken advocate of child abduction prevention, and has created an arsenal of tools that have helped at-risk parents.

(PRWEB) November 23, 2011

Peter Thomas Senese's novel "Chasing The Cyclone" has been hailed as a masterful international legal thriller that enraptures readers into the dark and incomprehensible world of global parental child abduction. Inspired by the best-selling author's own experiences racing into the storms of child abduction, critics and readers alike have called "Chasing The Cyclone" a Call-To-Arms against this worldwide epidemic, and Peter Thomas Senese as a master storyteller. "Chasing The Cyclone" will be released on December 1st, 2011 in hardcover and is now available via E-book from online merchants.

Mr. Senese will donate 100% of his royalties to the International Child Abduction Research and Education Foundation (I CARE), a non-profit organization he has previously provided significant financial aid to.
Added Peter Thomas Senese, "Chasing The Cyclone" is an entertaining book that puts the reader on a roller-coaster of emotions - which is most targeted parents of abduction experience. In fact, I have had more than one reviewer write to me and tell me that while in the midst of reading this novel, they actually physically threw the book due to pure frustration over the story's protagonist's unthinkable experiences while fighting to find and reunite with his son, only to immediately pick up the book and continue reading - only to want to throw the book again. But that's just it - for parents who are targets of abduction, many enter into an insane world. So, where the resource guide "The World Turned Upside Down" is a collection or important research reports and published studies, "Chasing The Cyclone" is a novel deeply inspired by and drawn from my own experiences."

Critics and readers have praised "Chasing The Cyclone".

... "Chasing The Cyclone" isn't just a powerful novel; it's a call to arms against a growing epidemic that is tearing lives apart behind the headlines . . . "Chasing The Cyclone" is much more than just a superb, can't-put-down novel, though; it is a book with a purpose . . . Peter Thomas Senese has become an outspoken advocate on this issue, and 'Chasing The Cyclone' makes for a clear and profoundly effective call to action. I would go so far as to encourage every loving parent to read this book, as the bond between this father and son is one to be emulated . . . (Renown book reviewer Daniel Jolley)

... "Chasing The Cyclone" will shake the audience, this exciting cautionary thriller grips readers from the onset ... (Renown book reviewer Harriet Klausner)

... Peter Thomas Senese now opens the windows on the magnitude of these tragedies in his excellent "Chasing The Cyclone" . . . As if the fast paced energy of this story weren't enough to satisfy the reader, Peter Thomas demonstrates his quality as a writer of distinction on many levels . . .this impossible to put down book . . . (Renown book reviewer Dr. Grady Harp)

. . . Chasing the Cyclone" is the second book I've read by Peter Thomas Senese, and like "The Den of the Assassin," it's a real page turner . . . This was a book I could not put down. Thomas has a gift in writing a compelling novel that not only keeps the reader engaged, but educates as well (Renown book reviewer Shelley Gammon)

Patricia Lee, a highly respected international family law attorney practicing international child abduction for nearly 20 years and a Director of the I CARE Foundation(International Parental Child Abduction Research and Education Foundation) stated, "I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Senese first, not as an acclaimed fiction writer, but as a dedicated child advocate helping victimized parents work through the morass of financial, legal and practical issues in their attempts to reunify with their children. I am humbled by his fierce dedication and continued financial support to the I CARE foundation, which, amongst many things, portends to be a milestone in the State Department’s efforts to recruit and train lawyers in this area of the law in order to better serve targeted children and parents, while also educating an uneducated judiciary. Thank you, Peter for all of your impactful dedication."

Joel S. Walter, another Director of the I CARE Foundation and a lawyer who has practiced primarily in the federal courts for 35 years added, "Peter Thomas Senese's dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of children and parents is inspiring. His 'Chasing The Cyclone' is brilliant - and a book readers will not put down. But Peter Thomas Senese is much more than a highly gifted writer: he is a man who cares deeply about others and, for 15 years that I have known Peter, I have watched him act through his heart. The I CARE Foundation is very appreciative of Peter's previous financial contributions as well as his diverse and tireless effort to help other parents."

Mr. Senese commented on his activism. "For the vast majority of defenseless children and their parents who are targeted for international parental child abduction, they enter a horrific, little-understood world where law and order and justice are fleeting concepts, but typically not reality. Knowing this first-hand, and having successfully navigated this ordeal under the Hague Convention, it was important to me to try to make a difference and help other targeted children and parents. Having a voice as an established storyteller has allowed me to do some of that in both written word, and in creation of the educational documentary film 'Chasing Parents'. Yet there is a great deal of work to be done, and so initiatives continue."

Please visit the official website of "Chasing The Cyclone". To learn more about Peter Thomas Senese, please visit the author's official website.