Daily Inspiration: Meet Rachel Kaplan

Today we’d like to introduce you to Rachel Kaplan.

Hi Rachel, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story? 
This is how I became the person I am today. When I was very young, I got bullied and teased and I didn’t know why. I found out that I had a learning disability and that it would take me longer to learn things. My main source of learning how to read was watching Disney movies. This gave me hope. I was tired of people treating me differently.

I decided I wanted to make a difference in the world. I wanted to tell my story through my eyes. When I told people I wanted to be an author, they discouraged me. I didn’t learn to read until High School. I had wonderful teachers who took the time to find the best way for me to learn to read. Because of their kindness and encouragement, I believed that I could do anything that I set my mind to.

I wrote my first book, “Growing Up with a Disability” in High School to let people know the challenges that I faced daily. I was excited to share my story. I am happy to be an inspiration to others. An act of kindness can change a person’s life. I have written five more children’s books with the theme of kindness, friendship, and caring about the world.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It has not been a smooth road. There have been challenges and triumphs along the way. It took a while to get my first book published, but I never gave up on my dream. I also struggle with anxiety and it was difficult to speak in public.

I have had five book signings at Barnes and Noble and I have also been featured on Channel Kindness. It has been hard to not let anxiety get in the way of my dreams. But I have kept moving forward.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I have written six children’s books so far. I love that I can spread the word about kindness and the importance of friendship and acceptance through my writing. I was also a finalist with my dog, Smokey, in the Furever USA national contest, which spread the word about the importance of rescuing animals.

I have donated my profits to a local rescue where I rescued Smokey and he was the inspiration for one of my books. I am proud that I can share my story and challenges and let children know it is ok to be different and also the importance of kindness.

What do you think about happiness?
I love Disney and the messages behind the stories. I read Disney stories to my dog every night before he goes to sleep. I love spending my time with my dog, family, and friends.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @littlerayray18