Rayshad Holmes

Rayshad Holmes
Looking for Love in All the Wrong Faces

Interviewed by: Lauretta Pierce
May 21, 2003

Q - Who is Rayshad Holmes?

A - Wow! I'm still trying to figure that out myself! In all seriousness, I am a young man focused on making a difference in the lives of those that I am fortunate to meet. I am also an avid reader; frequent traveler and I enjoy spending time with friends and family. My goal is to become a business professor and to this end, I will soon begin my Ph.D. coursework at George Washington University. At my best, I think that I am a role model to the young and old and I illustrate how God can take a little effort and multiply it into an awesome blessing. Did I mention that I am a comedian as well?



Q - What inspired you to write "Looking for Love in All the Wrong Faces?"

A - Initially, the motivation for this book stemmed from countless conversations that I had with my friends about failed relationships, broken promises and the like. At times I got frustrated because it seemed as if no one was heeding my advice. After several failed relationships, broken promises and shattered dreams that I experienced, I didn't want anyone connected to me to experience the same. And so, I began a quest to empower my friends and associates to make better choices and find the love that each of us desire. Surprisingly, I have found the love that I needed and many of them have as well. So, I guess that suggests that my plan worked!



Q - Were your life experiences the source you used to identify the different types of love?

A - While some of the book contains pieces that represent situations that I have faced personally, most of the material in the book including the various types of love that we can encounter came from a wealth of resources including interviews, discussions and other literature. I am sure that in my 25 years of life, I have not seen all there is to see with regard to this provocative subject. However, I am confident that I have seen enough to know how to effectively handle whatever comes my way.



Q - Your writing is very inspiring. Have you ever thought about going into ministry?

A - It's so funny that you should ask because I feel certain that this book along with each workshop I lead and each life that I speak into is my ministry. I strive to represent God in all that I do and I hope that my steps motivate someone else to do the same, only a little bit better. When most people talk about ministry, they think it only pertains to those that preach. My view is a little different. I feel strongly that every day of my life is ministry and the hugs, the talks, the books that I write and the interactions that I have with others is my ministry. So, in short, Yes!



Q - How many books have you written? Are you currently working on another book?

A - At present, I have completed two books and I am working on two books concurrently! One book, Bring It, will be released by the end of the year. The other book will be in print by summer 2004. In addition, three selections of my work were chosen for inclusion and publication by Judson Press chose three selections of my work for inclusion and publication in its second volume of From One Brother to Another.



Q - What type of atmosphere do you require to write?

A - As most writers will concur, the mood and urgency to write is dependent upon so many variables that it is often times, extremely difficult to identify the optimal climate for writing. My moods seem to vacillate from airplanes cruising at thirty thousand feet to the tranquility of my home. It depends on so much and if I ever get it nailed down to one particular place, I'll probably write fifty more books!



Q - How long did it take you to write Looking for Love in All the Wrong Faces?

A - This book took nine months of blood pressure, sweat and tears but alas, it is done and I am quite proud of the manuscript. I re-read it sometimes and learn more myself!



Q - What message would you like readers to receive from reading "Looking for Love in All the Wrong Faces?"

A - I can honestly admit that each reader will take away something completely different from the book, mainly because while each of us wants to be loved, our experiences and quest to find love may be quite different. Judging from the responses that I continue to receive from readers thus far, this book has helped them reassess their present situation and clarify other areas in their lives where they needed some advice. Still others have read the book, passed it on to countless others and been forced to buy a second copy because the first book contained so many highlights and marginal notes that it was no longer readable. Clearly, many are becoming wiser and more prudent in their "love" search and for this alone, I am forever thankful!