This book was not what I expected. I thought I was reading another Tavis Smiley book; however, it has a compilation of stories from Black America (some are known and others I have no idea). I guess we can have our picture and name on a book cover although it is full of stories from at least 50+ authors sharing their testimonies of faith.

One of the first stories that moved me and encouraged me was "Women of Minende (yolk) where it is a sister circle of women who stick together for a common purpose or goal. I hope to someday have a genuine sister circle; so far, it is what can she do for me or how can I learn from her for my own motives and there she goes. I think my circle of true friend(s) is lesser than 1 hand worth.

Passage, "...firm believer that God grants us gifts to fulfill our purpose here on earth, which is to minister to other people's weakened spirits, no matter what capacity you find them in. When we choose not to use our talents, we run the risk of losing them." (page 78).

"In Romans 12:6, Paul urges believers to walk in the talents and gifts God has given us. God's design for our lives is perfect. He has it all figured out. If you're a leader, you should govern well. If you're a teacher, you should teach well. If you are a giver, you should give generously." (page 71).

Each section had a story that moved me, inspired me, or gave me hope. I also enjoyed the story about how a male went to law school and was denied and recommended to join another law school since his LSAT score was not high enough. He took the advice and did exceptionally well then returned to USC, then later thrived in his own law firm, and after gaining reputable and gainful clientele--he helped South Africa to bless others how to create jobs and opportunities. In the hope section, Tavis Smiley shared "Hope" and helped me see this hardship for quite some time I can still soar.

Moreover, the story "Persistence Overrides Resistance" by Joylyn Wright, allowed me to see that LSAT where she took it twice and applied 13 schools and denied from them all. I know I will have to take the test a second time and hope this time I do better since I will prepare/study than what I did the first time. It can be expensive since most of them charge an application fee; the LSAT test is over $100 for 3-4 hours; and she shared her tears and fears that keeps me encouraged and hopeful! She didn't give up since God kept pressing on her heart/mind like He has done with me for seven years! "All things are possible with God." She changed her process--meeting with students, attorneys, school admins, and forums which I have done the same...so this definitely gives me hope! I have also read the books how to apply for law school and study, refreshing now. She studied daily, I was going to put aside 2-4 hours a week, might have to do it daily too. Yet, she had more disasters come her way and others that motivated later tried to discourage her since went for the worst. Key=relied on GOD, not the key people or perfect personal statement. Put God first in everything we do! Amen.

Reviewed the Bios at the end of the book and blessed to see a talented and gifted writer, Sharon Ewelle Foster who writes gospel novels (some call Christian Fiction) and Iyanla Vanzant and two stories by Tavis Smiley.

*I liked it...