Irma Sheppard
Where Are You From? explores a number of 'first time' experiences of the author, leading her to further emotional and/or spiritual understanding and awareness. From age 2 in wartime Germany to age 5 in the process of emigrating from postwar Germany and settling in Windsor, Ontario, Canada, she details the moments of expansion in her life. Since her parents are absorbed in the challenges of surviving in Germany and then Canada, the author has only her older sister and Who she eventually determines to be God to guide her through innumerable challenging moments. She traces her places of residence in the United States: Long Island NY, Michigan, Venice Beach CA, Norfolk VA, Tucson AZ, Asheville NC. At age 36, she experiences the presence of Avatar Meher Baba, which dramatically turns her life in a new direction. Summers in Europe and months in India afford her the excitement and growth of new friendships. Several 'last time' experiences trace her process of overcoming grief and regret. From ages 2 to 80, she details significant memories, presenting them as a series of colorful snapshots. Yet the depth of her perceptions ever deepens. Haiku and other pithy poems intersperse these stories. Numerous photographs illustrate the unfolding of her life events.