Does Tampa have the Next Top Spiritual Author?

 Local writer Staci Backauskas hopes so. She’s entered her new book, ego: A Primer, into the competition co-founded by NY Times bestselling author James Twyman.

 The contest, which drew over 2500 entries from around the world, will award a $50,000 publishing contract from Hampton Roads, publisher of the Conversation with God series, to the winner.  Three others will receive personal mentoring from Twyman to help find a publisher.

 Backauskas, who has authored eight books including the novel Where Fat Girls Haven’t Gone, was encouraged to enter by friends, who have benefited from her strategies for dealing with ego. “Ego is that incessant stream of thought that prevents you from having what you want,” Backauskas says. “It can feel like your worst enemy, but it was really meant to be your strongest ally.”

 Backauskas’ authentic conversational style resonates with people from all backgrounds – from professionals to ex-offenders, artists to students. “Staci reminds me that I’m not the only one on this journey and helps me to see how I sabotage myself,” says Joanne Weiland, CEO of Tampa-based Link to Expert. “Her willingness to share her experiences helps me remember I’m not alone when I have unpleasant moments or feel like giving up on my dreams.”

 Recent USF graduate Megan Carlson agrees. “I have so many highlights and sticky notes in the book because I keep coming back to it over and over. Staci reminds me of who I really am and shows me all the ways my ego can distract me from knowing that.”

 Pragmatic about what’s necessary to recognize and develop a healthy relationship with ego, Backauskas jokes, “This work can be challenging. But when you’re able to use ego to remind yourself of what you want instead of feeling bad or fighting with it, your life becomes more peaceful – and that affects everyone around you.”

 Watch her video for the Next Top Spiritual Author contest and cast your vote at www.stacib.com  There have already been over 50,000 votes cast and voting ends May 3, 2010!

 Look for video tips on recognizing and dealing with ego in specific situations to be posted on Staci’s You Tube channel at www.youtube.com/TheLanguageofLight.

 For more information, call 813-598-1624 or e-mail staci@tlol.org

 Visit The Language of Light Haiku-ware store at www.CafePress.com/TLOL