About Dr. Melba Burns
When I was 24, I wrote these words in my journal: “When I am older, I want to be a wise woman and inspire other women with what I write.”
That was many years ago (okay, let’s forget how many!), and I have held onto that vision forever. It’s what I want to do: it is my mission.
For over 30 years, I led creative writing groups, because I believe that everyone is born creative, and all we need to do is to tap into that vast reservoir to release the flow of our creations. Now, I am focusing on publishing the many books I have written.
But I will coach you on a one-to-one basis. So, if you want to write, or need help with a current writing project, I will assist you to bring it to fruition.
I write books to inspire and empower you to remember your own creativity — to remember who you truly are. So, watch for them.
Creativity was even the topic of my doctoral dissertation at the University of Denver: “A comparison of three creative problem-solving methods.” So, I come to the writing and coaching from both sides of the brain.
We are all given the gift of a right and left hemisphere in our brain, and we can learn to write from the right, then, later, edit with the left. I go into this in more depth in Romance Your Writer Within, & Reawaken Your Passion to Write.
Another book, Don’t Retire — Refire! From Burnout to Bonfire in Your Second Half of Life, will assist you through your transitions and empower you to remember that you still can do what gives your life meaning.
I also have a series of Short-Reads (about 40-50 pages) called, You Still Can. They are meant to inspire you to know that no matter what age you are, You Still Can remember the truth of yourself and continue to move forward. There are currently four volumes available in the series, with more on the way:
- Vol. 1: You Still Can Create the Life You Want.
- Vol. 2: You Still Can Because Your Life Matters.
- Vol. 3: You Still Can Remember Your Writing’s a Gift.
- Vol. 4: You Still Can Thrive Through Transitions.
Write a Journal So Your Soul Smiles will assist you to expand your self-awareness and will remind you that you can ask your higher Self for advice. It is a book to prompt you to dive deeply into your soul and get in touch with the truth of who you really are, and it will, indeed, make you feel like your soul is smiling when you are in contact with that loving essence of yourself. It is also filled with my own poems and deep journal writings — to the point where I asked myself, “Yikes, can I really put this in there?” So, I did — to empower you to write your own journey with honesty and courage. Download it now and enjoy what it brings to you!
In Filled With Purple: Short Stories & Inspiration for Women are intriguing fictional stories of strong women who move forward despite their challenges. It is volume #1 in the series, Inspiration for Women.
Filled with Light: Miracles & Inspiration for Women is Volume #2. I wrote it because I’ve been blessed with many miracles in my own life, and I wanted to remind readers to remember their own miracles.
My recently published book, Hold On To Your Dream & WRITE reminds you to do just that. Once again, I write for women in midlife, those of you who may have misplaced your own dream, tucked it under the bed or allowed it to languish on a shelf somewhere.
Most of all, my intention is for my writing to inspire you to remember how creative you are and to bring forth your creative gifts.
Born in Weston, Ontario, a small town now part of metropolitan Toronto, I have lived in several cities: I attended Sir George William’s University, now Concordia, in Montreal, and years later, returned with my three children, from Calgary. I did my graduate work on Human Communication, in Denver, then, moved to Los Angeles to write scripts for Disney, and to open up more to my spirituality. At 49, I headed out in my little Datsun 280Z, not knowing where I was going, but guided by my higher Self. Soon, Naked With My Higher Self will be published – to remind you, readers, that you too can dialogue with your higher Self. My road journey ended up in Vancouver, British Columbia, which I love, and have lived here for many years.
I’m a member of Unity church and a prayer chaplain there, and I know that through prayer, miracles happen. I have three grown children, and three grandchildren, and am proud of all of them. I love swimming, walking, reading, conversing with friends, and inspiring people to be more of who they are. I want to serve readers and remind you how much you have to give. It’s about taking a long journey into self; honoring the Divine Essence within – and enjoying the journey.
I hope you’ll check out this site often because my intention is to publish more and more of the books still on my shelves — even poetry books about midlife — so you will be inspired in your own life. So you will know that it doesn’t matter how old you are, you still can re-create yourself.
Sincerely,
Dr. Melba Burns
Heartfelt Testimonials for Dr. Melba Burns
The following testimonials are all from people who have enjoyed Dr. Burns’ writing workshops, read her books, and met her personally…
“Her warm, humorous style dispels self-doubt & guides each writer to discover the gifts of their soul.”
—Beryle Chambers, Poet
“What an awesome class, I am so excited I can hardly stand it. I loved it! I felt as if I had been pecking to get out of the egg for so long and when I popped out, it was a familiar place. Melba, what have you done to me! Will ‘we’ every be able to put the genie back in the bottle?”
—Diane Walter
“She liberated me!!”
—Patricia Baldwin, Artist
“Now I know I can write children’s books, teaching spiritual lessons. I am enthused — inspired… Melba is a great teacher, clear and inspiring, and insightful. She provides a great space to be nurtured and encouraged in creative expression through writing.”
—Charonne Sinclaire
“I have a new understanding of how my creative process works, and how to use it in my writing to not only tell my story but to understand myself in a new way.… It was a pleasure to be in this group of women –I have learned much about writing. Melba’s wisdom and willingness to share and encourage has made this class successful in my opinion.”
—Lori Reid.
“I was so motivated and inspired that I focused on finishing my book. Now, I feel more encouraged and confident…. Just love your constant inspiration. Thank you.”
—Nicki Boyd.
“I was stuck because of working in a context when every word had to be right, scientifically accurate… I had lost the ability to writefreely, from my own heart. And I was feeling it all a chore… Now, I’m writing my stories again and enthusiasm is back… I am happy that I joined the group and expecting to produce more good work as a result of it. Thank you.”
—Susannah Anderson
“I didn’t take my writing seriously (before). Now, I am a writer. I can write… Melba, you have such a strong and spiritual energy. Your critiques were so direct; loving, gentle, but strong. Thank you & God bless you.”
—Olga Boulter.
“Recently, I took one of Melba’s one day workshops. Something clicked inside of me as we were doing the various exercises. It was inspirational! I found a new courage that not only gave me more passion for writing but it spilled over into other areas of my life as well. Amazing! I felt a huge feeling of relief as I also gained a new ability to trust in my own instincts. Doubly amazing!! I would highly recommend her classes and workshops to anyone.”
—Carolyn Micheals, Artist.
“Melba Burns’ writing class was an enriching experience. The guidance and positive suggestions opened me up to being more creative and joyous with my writing.”
—Dawn Nathan, RSI Practitioner
“She provides constructive, unbiased feedback in a ‘family environment.”
–Alan Scott, Architect
“Melba, herself a powerful writer, takes care of writers taking new steps into their creativity so that they become filled with confidence enough to fly. She is a master at what she does.”
—Deb Cameron Fawkes, MA Theological Studies
“Melba’s Writer’s Workshop brought me an unexpected perspective on my writing: my motivation, my process and my potential. She also gave me much needed practicalities on getting my work out there. A great group in a beautiful setting was icing on the cake.”
—David Buckland, Writer & Consultant
“What a wonderful presentation given with your truly spirit-ful presence.” Once again, you ignited my spark of creativity — and it was evident, I was not alone.”
—Glo McArter, Psychologist.
“I’ve taken many workshops with Melba and I have found her to be a wonderful writing facilitator. She creates an atmosphere of support, safety and positive feedback for any aspiring writer – novice or experienced. Largely due to her positive influence I published a book of my poetry and art prints two years ago,”
—Betsy Randel, Artist
“Working with Melba really gave my creativity a boost and kicked my writing skills up a notch. Everyone I work with noticed the enhanced creativity and clarity in my writing. Melba helped me to get out of my own way in order to allow the process of writing to unfold.”
—Deborah Alden, Communications/Media Relations Consultant
“Not only did Melba support me in writing out my stories, the group environment she created provided a safe space for me to finally find my voice and step into my own power.”
–Mary Toth, Personal Coach
“Melba, it was truly awesome. You did a great job of invoking the best in people to come forward. Your life’s work is inspiring.”
—Isabelle E. Baillie.
“Melba creates a warm, encouraging and inspiring environment that gave me a space and a framework to revitalize my writing process… I left feeling heard, encouraged and re-awakened to my writing! Melba rocks!”
—Doris Montgomery, Director of Human Resources
“I have taken Melba’s courses many times and they always stimulate amazing creativity! Poems and short stories emerge spontaneously and blossom under her guidance. And Melba is great at getting us to actually write, and not just talk about it. Things that have been on the back burner for years – like my languishing novel—suddenly come to life again. Melba creates a fun, joyful and caring atmosphere in her classes and I have made some wonderful friends there. Highly recommended.”
–Gail Behrend, Consultant and Author of Energy is Real!!
“Romance Your Writer Within” is a superb reference for writers at all stages of their endeavors. It is full of very practical and specific exercises that are fun to do. Dr. Burns brings her work alive with several personal anecdotes which makes reading her book more pleasurable.”
—Dr. Richard E. Becker, R.P.F., Vancouver, B.C.
About Dr. Melba Burns
When I was 24, I wrote these words in my journal: “When I am older, I want to be a wise woman and inspire other women with what I write.”
That was many years ago (okay, let’s forget how many!), and I have held onto that vision forever. It’s what I want to do: it is my mission.
For over 30 years, I led creative writing groups, because I believe that everyone is born creative, and all we need to do is to tap into that vast reservoir to release the flow of our creations. Now, I am focusing on publishing the many books I have written.
But I will coach you on a one-to-one basis. So, if you want to write, or need help with a current writing project, I will assist you to bring it to fruition.
I write books to inspire and empower you to remember your own creativity — to remember who you truly are. So, watch for them.
Creativity was even the topic of my doctoral dissertation at the University of Denver: “A comparison of three creative problem-solving methods.” So, I come to the writing and coaching from both sides of the brain.
We are all given the gift of a right and left hemisphere in our brain, and we can learn to write from the right, then, later, edit with the left. I go into this in more depth in Romance Your Writer Within, & Reawaken Your Passion to Write.
Another book, Don’t Retire — Refire! From Burnout to Bonfire in Your Second Half of Life, will assist you through your transitions and empower you to remember that you still can do what gives your life meaning.
I also have a series of Short-Reads (about 40-50 pages) called, You Still Can. They are meant to inspire you to know that no matter what age you are, You Still Can remember the truth of yourself and continue to move forward. There are currently four volumes available in the series, with more on the way:
- Vol. 1: You Still Can Create the Life You Want.
- Vol. 2: You Still Can Because Your Life Matters.
- Vol. 3: You Still Can Remember Your Writing’s a Gift.
- Vol. 4: You Still Can Thrive Through Transitions.
Write a Journal So Your Soul Smiles will assist you to expand your self-awareness and will remind you that you can ask your higher Self for advice. It is a book to prompt you to dive deeply into your soul and get in touch with the truth of who you really are, and it will, indeed, make you feel like your soul is smiling when you are in contact with that loving essence of yourself. It is also filled with my own poems and deep journal writings — to the point where I asked myself, “Yikes, can I really put this in there?” So, I did — to empower you to write your own journey with honesty and courage. Download it now and enjoy what it brings to you!
In Filled With Purple: Short Stories & Inspiration for Women are intriguing fictional stories of strong women who move forward despite their challenges. It is volume #1 in the series, Inspiration for Women.
Filled with Light: Miracles & Inspiration for Women is Volume #2. I wrote it because I’ve been blessed with many miracles in my own life, and I wanted to remind readers to remember their own miracles.
My recently published book, Hold On To Your Dream & WRITE reminds you to do just that. Once again, I write for women in midlife, those of you who may have misplaced your own dream, tucked it under the bed or allowed it to languish on a shelf somewhere.
Most of all, my intention is for my writing to inspire you to remember how creative you are and to bring forth your creative gifts.
Born in Weston, Ontario, a small town now part of metropolitan Toronto, I have lived in several cities: I attended Sir George William’s University, now Concordia, in Montreal, and years later, returned with my three children, from Calgary. I did my graduate work on Human Communication, in Denver, then, moved to Los Angeles to write scripts for Disney, and to open up more to my spirituality. At 49, I headed out in my little Datsun 280Z, not knowing where I was going, but guided by my higher Self. Soon, Naked With My Higher Self will be published – to remind you, readers, that you too can dialogue with your higher Self. My road journey ended up in Vancouver, British Columbia, which I love, and have lived here for many years.
I’m a member of Unity church and a prayer chaplain there, and I know that through prayer, miracles happen. I have three grown children, and three grandchildren, and am proud of all of them. I love swimming, walking, reading, conversing with friends, and inspiring people to be more of who they are. I want to serve readers and remind you how much you have to give. It’s about taking a long journey into self; honoring the Divine Essence within – and enjoying the journey.
I hope you’ll check out this site often because my intention is to publish more and more of the books still on my shelves — even poetry books about midlife — so you will be inspired in your own life. So you will know that it doesn’t matter how old you are, you still can re-create yourself.
Sincerely,
Dr. Melba Burns
Heartfelt Testimonials for Dr. Melba Burns
The following testimonials are all from people who have enjoyed Dr. Burns’ writing workshops, read her books, and met her personally…
“Her warm, humorous style dispels self-doubt & guides each writer to discover the gifts of their soul.”
—Beryle Chambers, Poet
“What an awesome class, I am so excited I can hardly stand it. I loved it! I felt as if I had been pecking to get out of the egg for so long and when I popped out, it was a familiar place. Melba, what have you done to me! Will ‘we’ every be able to put the genie back in the bottle?”
—Diane Walter
“She liberated me!!”
—Patricia Baldwin, Artist
“Now I know I can write children’s books, teaching spiritual lessons. I am enthused — inspired… Melba is a great teacher, clear and inspiring, and insightful. She provides a great space to be nurtured and encouraged in creative expression through writing.”
—Charonne Sinclaire
“I have a new understanding of how my creative process works, and how to use it in my writing to not only tell my story but to understand myself in a new way.… It was a pleasure to be in this group of women –I have learned much about writing. Melba’s wisdom and willingness to share and encourage has made this class successful in my opinion.”
—Lori Reid.
“I was so motivated and inspired that I focused on finishing my book. Now, I feel more encouraged and confident…. Just love your constant inspiration. Thank you.”
—Nicki Boyd.
“I was stuck because of working in a context when every word had to be right, scientifically accurate… I had lost the ability to writefreely, from my own heart. And I was feeling it all a chore… Now, I’m writing my stories again and enthusiasm is back… I am happy that I joined the group and expecting to produce more good work as a result of it. Thank you.”
—Susannah Anderson
“I didn’t take my writing seriously (before). Now, I am a writer. I can write… Melba, you have such a strong and spiritual energy. Your critiques were so direct; loving, gentle, but strong. Thank you & God bless you.”
—Olga Boulter.
“Recently, I took one of Melba’s one day workshops. Something clicked inside of me as we were doing the various exercises. It was inspirational! I found a new courage that not only gave me more passion for writing but it spilled over into other areas of my life as well. Amazing! I felt a huge feeling of relief as I also gained a new ability to trust in my own instincts. Doubly amazing!! I would highly recommend her classes and workshops to anyone.”
—Carolyn Micheals, Artist.
“Melba Burns’ writing class was an enriching experience. The guidance and positive suggestions opened me up to being more creative and joyous with my writing.”
—Dawn Nathan, RSI Practitioner
“She provides constructive, unbiased feedback in a ‘family environment.”
–Alan Scott, Architect
“Melba, herself a powerful writer, takes care of writers taking new steps into their creativity so that they become filled with confidence enough to fly. She is a master at what she does.”
—Deb Cameron Fawkes, MA Theological Studies
“Melba’s Writer’s Workshop brought me an unexpected perspective on my writing: my motivation, my process and my potential. She also gave me much needed practicalities on getting my work out there. A great group in a beautiful setting was icing on the cake.”
—David Buckland, Writer & Consultant
“What a wonderful presentation given with your truly spirit-ful presence.” Once again, you ignited my spark of creativity — and it was evident, I was not alone.”
—Glo McArter, Psychologist.
“I’ve taken many workshops with Melba and I have found her to be a wonderful writing facilitator. She creates an atmosphere of support, safety and positive feedback for any aspiring writer – novice or experienced. Largely due to her positive influence I published a book of my poetry and art prints two years ago,”
—Betsy Randel, Artist
“Working with Melba really gave my creativity a boost and kicked my writing skills up a notch. Everyone I work with noticed the enhanced creativity and clarity in my writing. Melba helped me to get out of my own way in order to allow the process of writing to unfold.”
—Deborah Alden, Communications/Media Relations Consultant
“Not only did Melba support me in writing out my stories, the group environment she created provided a safe space for me to finally find my voice and step into my own power.”
–Mary Toth, Personal Coach
“Melba, it was truly awesome. You did a great job of invoking the best in people to come forward. Your life’s work is inspiring.”
—Isabelle E. Baillie.
“Melba creates a warm, encouraging and inspiring environment that gave me a space and a framework to revitalize my writing process… I left feeling heard, encouraged and re-awakened to my writing! Melba rocks!”
—Doris Montgomery, Director of Human Resources
“I have taken Melba’s courses many times and they always stimulate amazing creativity! Poems and short stories emerge spontaneously and blossom under her guidance. And Melba is great at getting us to actually write, and not just talk about it. Things that have been on the back burner for years – like my languishing novel—suddenly come to life again. Melba creates a fun, joyful and caring atmosphere in her classes and I have made some wonderful friends there. Highly recommended.”
–Gail Behrend, Consultant and Author of Energy is Real!!
“Romance Your Writer Within” is a superb reference for writers at all stages of their endeavors. It is full of very practical and specific exercises that are fun to do. Dr. Burns brings her work alive with several personal anecdotes which makes reading her book more pleasurable.”
—Dr. Richard E. Becker, R.P.F., Vancouver, B.C.