THE BEARING STONE

Nate Bearing works with his father, Alexander Bearing, who owns the monument company, Bearing Stone and Son, Inc. His father's death throws Nate into a deep depression. His best friends, Haley and Jack, can no longer help him. He's dragging them down.

On the brink of suicide, Nate visits his grandfather, Manuel Bearing, who is of Mayan descent. Through his spiritual gifts of healing, Manuel helps Nate recover and move through his grief. In time, Nate's own gift is revealed to him: the ability to help others in unimaginable ways.

This timeless story explores the impact of trauma, the importance of healing, and the spirituality that makes anything possible, including embracing a new life.

MARGARET WILLIAMS-COKER

Margaret Williams-Coker is a psychiatric social worker who has held clinical, managerial, and administrative positions. She graduated from the University of New York at Albany with a master's in social welfare. She also graduated from the College of St. Rose in Albany, New York, where she majored in music education. The author has published academic articles and book chapters, and has written short stories, poems, and books for children. Her penchant for music led her to compose a mass titled "In Honor of the Holy Cross" and the symphony "Suite in A Minor" for double bass, as well as many other musical compositions. Born in Syracuse, New York, she now resides in the Capital District in Upstate New York. She cherishes her four sons and six grandchildren.