Real Life Stories of Triumph
586451
I have been following Dr. West and his Black Belt Speakers group for some time now.  In the process I have discovered that he is both sincere and genuine.  This book is indeed a must read for anyone going through the struggle and wanting to overcome and not only survive but also thrive.  As I read the sobering stories of overcoming and understanding I was encouraged and strengthened.  Each of these authors could hold their own individually and collectively.  Dr. West has assembled a stellar group Martial Authors that flat out knock it out the park.  Whether it's Roland Manny sharing the love of a single Parent or John McClung explaining why he is a testimony, the bottom line is you can begin living Your Best life.  When you read the account by Demetra Moore speaking of getting More out of life or any of these outstanding writers you will be amazed, inspired, motivated and challenged to live your best life
3167069
This raw, brave story parallels the author's intense fights to achieve major athletic victories, battle life-threatening disease, and overcome deeply personal battles, including finding the will to live fully and authentically through life's potentially crushing waves. The author honestly shares painful struggles relatable to many, from bullying, a reading disorder, perfectionism, eating disorders, overwhelming and relapsing addiction, sexual assault, partner abuse, and professional and relationship sacrifices and struggles, as well as aggressive illness with pain, uncertainty, and complications. Through gritty, growing, and sometimes end-of-the rope faith and determination, and the surprising interventions of others and a God who turns out to be very different than expected, she fights tremendous challenges, including personal demons and masks that arise from doubt, fear, and inner shame. I could not put the book down until I was finished, with my teen daughter reading over my shoulder. This is a great read for launching meaningful thought and discussion about accepting both our gifts and challenges in life, while living connected with others and God in honesty, love, and faith.
764870
This book is a fascinating collection of real world stories comprising real people who are dealing with life's most difficult issues. It describes the journey Julie took both spiritually and experientially as she shared those moments with these members of her congregation and her mentors.  Julie's honest and witty style underscores a deep learning that she ultimately achieved as each story unfolds and reveals a bigger picture.
3810464
This book is chock filled with many interesting and varied stories of women achieving their goals and overcoming obstacles as they do so. Marlo Thomas really went out of her way to find these women, rather than select from a list of women whose stories were already known. These are "regular people" whose stories are instructive in persevering despite the odds. The reader is likely to find "herself" in some of these stories and hopefully gather enough strength from them to keep powering through difficult times.
4318584
This remarkable book contains first-hand stories about people who fight for life in many different ways. It contains stories from sidewalk counselors, protesters, educators, counselors, and people who raise funds. It showed me that there are many ways to fight for life and it takes everyone working together to fight abortions. Judy Madsen Johnson has fought on the front lines herself and uses her own experiences and those of her many connections with fellow missionaries over the years to create a passionate and inspiring book. I learned a lot and it inspired me to do more to fight for babies who cannot fight for themselves.
280949
Reviewed by Connie Anderson

* Resilient * Powerful * Determined * Unstoppable * Incredible * Strong * Amazing ... What wonderful words to use when you think about women.

Note to Self starts with Andrea's personal story of humiliation and growth that leads into amazing stories of women overcoming... .

These women, some are well-known like Mariska Hargitay (Law & Order, SVU), others are known in their own field. They all tell their stories of overcoming major bad things that happened to them: illness, injury, job-related, relationship-related, etc.

The stories show how strong and resilient women can be-of all ages, some who had nothing, and others who "had it all."

Several of the stories are about the men they married-and the good, the bad and the ugly things human do to each others. One's husband gave her AIDS and asked her not to tell anyone, even after he died. She could not even tell her or his children. That was when AIDS filled the nation with fear.

All I could think of when I read each story was: "You go girl!" I was rooting for their success or even for their life-changing ah-ha moments.

The 3Hs (humiliation, heartbreak and Hardship really sum up life, and the collection Buchanan has assembled is worth any woman's reading time, and this is true for younger women just dating as well. It is full of advice hidden within personal experiences.

One story was written by Candy, one of the professionals that do interventions on the TV reality show, "Intervention." Herself a recovering alcoholic, her story was so heartwarming about how drinking had filled her long hours alone with a musician husband on tour for weeks at a time. Then she got sober, and now helps others-many in the entertainment industry.

My surprising favorite, maybe because it made me laugh, was the stand-up comedienne Carol Leifer. She wrote about getting rid of her dad's things after he died, and how memories are tied to "stuff." But she reminded us that "we are not our stuff but the lives we touch."

Amen to that and all the wonderful women who shared their life's story. You'll be humbled just reading about these resilient individuals.

Armchair Interviews says: HIGHLY recommended for all women. WOW.
779268
We need more books like this - real-life inspiring stories that get to the heart of transformation.  Kirstin does a wonderful job of sharing her experiences in a way that readers can relate and feel encouraged to change their life for the better. Well done!
3235994
This book is an honest heartfelt sharing of a life filled with hope in the face of real world challenges.
4052594
Very encouraging stories of overcoming seemingly impossible circumstances.  Renews your faith, encourages your heart.
741534
Inspiring stories that cover a sensitive, but serious topic. Everyone should read.
4829211
So often life deals very difficult moments, and those moments turn into years.  Here you can read about Kamila Sidiqi and how she triumphs over a repressive country that is mired in violence.  Kamilia confined to her home starts a business to be the sole breadwinner for her five siblings when the older men in her family are forced to flee the city.

True grit and determination turn a very difficult situation into survival.  A true story so worth the reading.  These women triumph over difficult situations and make the best of their lives in difficult times.
131755
WOW. A collection of some of THE BEST in the fitness industry all sharing their stories of strong living, each chapter unique and uplifting. No matter your walk of life, there is an "ah-a" moment in here for everyone! A must read!
224872
A great book consisting of many short stories of real successful people who through hard work, worked their way to great success!!
2317902
Encouraging! Some stories were more in depth than others. Some stories really showed the struggle of some famous people, and the obstacles they went through to make it to the top. A couple of stories were a little void of struggle (i.e., rags to riches), however, this book is a very good read.
849904
This is a moving collection of real life stories, by real life warriors. I am humbled to be a part of this compilation, and it has opened my eyes to the cathartic qualities of both writing AND reading. It is eye-opening to see what possibilities there are in building empires from misfortunes, and healing from within.
2734559
It is a very inspiring collection of experiences of very many individuals, who in spite of adversities, were able to turn their lives around, I recommend this book to anyone is faced with challenges in their life, as a possible model to go forward.
2815111
Fabulous real stories.  A must read for anyone who wants to see how their actions can make a difference in the world.