History: Fiction or Science? (Chronology, No. 1)

Book Description

Recorded history is a finely-woven magic fabric of intricate lies about events predating the sixteenth century. There is not a single piece of evidence that can be reliably and independently traced back earlier than the eleventh century. This book details events that are substantiated by hard facts and logic, and validated by new astronomical research and statistical analysis of ancient sources.

Customer Reviews:

Calculations are only as good as your numbers.......2007-08-03

Yes, we can all agree that mainstream history is nearly 100% BS due to politics, economics, ego, problems with dating techniques, and various conspiracies. Agreed. But, I've been researching the distinct possibility that human history (in terms of civilizations) are much more ancient than we've been told, so coming across this book was very interesting to me. I wondered how Fomenko could be wrong (if at all) because he is very persuasive in his presentations. Then it dawned on me. If at previous times in prehistory, due to the various catastrophies that are well documented (comets, asteroids, planetary disruptions, plasma discharge, pole reversals, etc) the Earth was in a different position in relation to the sun, different tilt on its axis, different orbit, different rotation (in terms of velocity and DIRECTION), and the continents were in different positions, then would this not cause the ancients to see the sky (constellations) differently? In other words, is Fomenko making erronious assumptions about the physics of the Earth in pre-history, which then corrupt his data with regards to dating the relevant astrology? The last event to seriously disrupt our planet occured roughly 3500 years ago, according to other good researchers, so is it possible Fomenko has been confused by this? The vastly different physics of our planet in the not so distant past may explain this confusion, which is not to say the "mainstream" version of history is correct; on the contrary. I am not an expert in these fields, but wanted to see if this idea could spark discussion.

Pants on fire?.......2007-07-19

Will people ever read before spamming? Yes, Jesuits could not rewrite world history alone, they had help. Anyway, Dr Prof Acad A.Fomenko does not point to jesuits as the driving force of world wide history manipulation in published volumes 1,2,3;, actually he barely mentions the poor devils. Check it with 'Search inside' feature, please. China is rarely mentioned either, in fact, Dr Fomenko is completely eurocentric. Right, his theory contradicts all mainstream schools of history, because in their actual state they are all built on blatantly erroneus chronology. You don't need a mysterious cabal (conspiracy) to falsify history, the falsification is its modus operandi. It is inherent to history(ians) to falsify (distort) events, as it is inherent to humans to boast as it is inherent to power (authority) to legimize itself by referrring to glorious past made to its own order. Dr Prof Fomenko and team have identified scores of instances of such manipulation in Russian, European, etc.. history, and delivered valid statistical proof thereof. His own 'reconstruction' is completely another story. Forget c14 as a valid method of dating. W.Libby has initially discovered a brilliant method of INDEPENDENT dating. Too bad, c14 method has become a joke after a forced marrige with dendrochronology with consensual chronological scale inbuilt. Radiocarbon method can't stand blind tests, but is so very productive as a rubberstamp.

Accepted History & Chronology Must Be Changed. .......2007-04-09

There is no doubt that history as most know it is a sham, & institution's version of History both University & Church is fradulent & inaccurate. Everything was established with an agenda, The real "Dark Ages" are now when we have access to incredible amounts of information past authorities & more important 'common folk' didn't have but our institutions & educators are slow to evolve because of what has ignorantly & arrogantly been taught for too long. This is on many subjects not just Chronology.

For anyone to question "Why would a Mathematician have anything credible to say of History?" The answer is from Dr. Fomenko's preface in the book: "It would be worthwhile to remind the reader that in the XVI-XVII century Chronology was considered to be a subdivision of Mathematics." These volumes could possibly be some of the most important works to date & should be read by everyone with an interest in History, especially professors & educators who have a duty to the public. I have read both books & must say that 'Chronology 1' has some very eye opening & revolutionary information. Even if these volumes are part true the implications are profound & opens the doors to further investigations & questions which must be done. I speak several different lanquages & must say the logic Dr. Fomenko uses with "inflection" of words & words being read from left to right in one region & right to left in another then written backwards, the removal of vowels & get down to basics of words, or different cities & locations having the same name etc. is correct. Vowel usage has always been optional & varied, actually complicating linquistics & study. The first thing one has to understand is that words never had a fixed spelling in history like we do now, the spelling of words was mutable & regional, as well as names & titles of people were vast, varied & changed, NOTHING WAS FIXED or understood linear. Matters of Life & Death as well as financial profiteering yesterday & today were & are made with ignorant, illogical & conspiratorial views of history & reality, it's time people get closer to the Truth & society collectively grow up.

Very Interesting.......2007-03-07

It is a good proposal and I believe it will mature into something even better in the future. I think it deserves to be read.

History as Science Fiction.......2007-01-10

Anatoly Fomenko has written a very intriguing book, full of pictures, charts, and computer 'proof' of his thesis: backwards of AD900 we don't really know what happened or when. Between AD900 and AD1600 there is more certainty, but there is still a lot of fuzzy ground, and things don't get reliable until we get past the 1600's where the printing press made it very difficult for the perpetrators of this timeline manipulation to change anything that had been committed to print. The Dark Ages did not happen. Books were burned for a reason. One organization has doubled the actual length of its existence by expanding the real chronology. Read why.

I had always wondered why Christ died about AD33 and yet men waited until the 11th century to form the Knights Templar, the Cathars, etc and go after the Holy Land by force. Why the 1000 year gap? Turns out there wasn't more than a 10-12 year gap and he proves it using astronomy. This also implies that the planet is not as old as we have been told, and current Christian and other creationist scientists are already championing that idea without being aware of Fomenko's book. The two groups, creationist scientists and the Russian mathematical analysts corroborate each other. Fascinating.

Of course, all this flies in the face of what we have been told traditionally is the 'proper' chronology of western civilization, and most readers will experience 'cognitive dissonance' in reading this book. It means that our history going backwards from AD1600 becomes progressively more incorrect and unreliable until it cannot be trusted at all... in the space of 700-800 years.

Naturally, the curious, open-minded reader will want to know WHO did this, WHY, and did any of the events we think of as really ancient ever happen?
Dr. Fomenko is a respected scientist/mathematician at Moscow State University who has already answered these questions to the satisfaction of his initially skeptical colleagues. Most of them are now believers, a few still refuse to believe (the usual diehards), and of course the western press has ignored Fomenko's work -- for obvious reasons when you read the book. The ones who perpetrated this chronology ruse have a lot to answer for. They are still with us. That's why this book is a well-kept secret.

I gave the book a 4-star rating because I was unable to check out some of his claims; those I checked were as he said. But if even 1/3 of his claims are true, this punches a big hole in what we think is our history, the meaning of western civilization, our educational process (for repeating the ruse as gospel), and the trustworthiness of the organization that perpetrated this ruse, well-intentioned or not.

This book relates to current research into a Young Earth paradigm, to John Keel's discoveries about our planet, and Fr Malachi Martin's insights (in his now out-of-print books). We are indeed sheep who are manipulated and kept ignorant -- for a reason. While knowing what these men have to say may be the "booby prize" (as in: 'what can you do with this knowledge?'), it will provide interesting reading. Didn't someone say: "...and the Truth will set you free."?? For you to judge if this book contains the truth.

Laughing in the Dark: A Comedian's Journey through Depression

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Great Read
Excellent
books
Couldn't put it down.
Highly recommended

Laughing in the Dark: A Comedian's Journey through Depression
Chonda Pierce
Manufacturer: Howard Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 1582296413

Book Description

A Kind Friend to Walk with You...

For many, depression is associated with shame and humiliation -- even a lack of faith. But in this refreshingly honest and oh-so-very-real revelation of one woman's journey through depression, you'll hear the voice of a kind friend. And in her words you'll find hope and renewed confidence that will guide you through your own darkness and into the light.

If you are currently suffering from depression -- this book will help you realize you're not alone.

If you have a loved one dealing with depression -- this book will help you understand.

If you are a mental-health professional -- you now have a new tool to encourage your clients.

Along with the humor, Chonda shares practical insight, biblical teaching, emotional support, and sympathetic concern. Whether you've experienced depression in your own life or in the life of someone you love, this friend has something to offer you: help, hope and, believe it or not, plenty of laughter.

Customer Reviews:

Great Read.......2007-10-04

This book flowed well, and I really appreciated Chonda's candid and honest look at her journey through depression. While the church sometimes implies if you suffer from depression, you must not have enough faith or you are making it up, Chonda is not ashamed to share her story and her faith. Thanks for sharing.

Excellent.......2007-10-02

I recently saw Chondra on stage. I knew with her type of humor, I needed to read her book.Being diagnosed with Clinical Depression myself, I felt we had something in common. I was not disappointed, her book is excellent. She is able to put into words thoughts and feelings just like mine. It seems God put people into her life just like He did me. This is a must read!!!!!

books.......2007-09-21

I love Chonda Pierce. I have been to see her in person. This is a must read book

Couldn't put it down........2007-09-17

This book just really hit home with me. I could relate to so many things. Chonda is such a funny lady and it left me so optimistic. Passed it on to a friend that is traveling down that dark road. She loved it also.

Highly recommended.......2007-07-08

Laughing in the Dark: A Comedian's Journey Through Depression is the true story of comedian, Christian, and depression survivor Chonda Pierce, in her own words. Pierce recovered with help from close friends, therapy, and a Zoloft prescription; she candidly shares her story as affirmation that "depression" is neither shameful nor a sign of faltering faith. Though the author's abiding faith in God is quite evident, Laughing in the Dark is intended for readers of all belief systems. "When your mind has been captivated by the dark for a long time and you finally experience some healing - whether instantaneously through an act of God or gradually through the gift of medicine - you feel liberated... But there's more work to be done. It's like having any other serious, debilitating injury. You're excited when you make it through all the surgeries, but you still have to battle through rehabilitation in order to learn to walk, talk, and feed yourself again." Highly recommended, especially for the personal shelves and reading lists of anyone suffering depression or their friends and families.

Dark Journey (Star Wars: The New Jedi Order, Book 10)

Average customer rating:

Kills the momentum Star by Star established
Depressing Let Down
Great Heart and Interesting Plot...
book 10
The worst book in NJO series

Dark Journey (Star Wars: The New Jedi Order, Book 10)
Elaine Cunningham
Manufacturer: Del Rey
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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ASIN: 0345428692
Release Date: 2002-01-29

Book Description

The New Jedi Order continues as Jaina Solo struggles with anger and despair after the Jedi Knights' harrowing adventure behind enemy lines.

Though the Jedi strike force completed its deadly mission into Yuuzhan Vong territory, the price of success was tragedy: not everyone made it out alive. In a daring getaway, hotshop pilot Jaina Solo stole an enemy ship, taking along her fellow survivors--and leaving behind a huge piece of her heart.

With the enemy in hot pursuit, Jaina is forced to seek haven in the unprotected, unfriendly Hapes Cluster, where the Jedi are held responsible for a past tragedy--and where the royal family has grim plans for their famous Jedi guest. Even more sinister are the intentions of the Yuuvhan Vong, desperate to capture Jaina for a hideous sacrifice.

Grief-stricken and obsessed with revenge, Jaina is blind to these threats--and to the overpowering evil dangerously close to consuming her. In the coming conflagration, Jaina will be fighting not for victory or vengeance, but fore her very being . . .

Customer Reviews:

Kills the momentum Star by Star established.......2007-09-26

After the jaw dropping (and heart wrenching) events of Star by Star (Star Wars: The New Jedi Order, Book 9), I was eager to see both how the Jedi community would react to the loss of one of its brightest stars as well as how the New Republic would deal with the loss of their capitol planet Coruscant to the Yuuzhan Vong invaders. Instead, Dark Journey gives us a tale of one Jedi's journey towards the dark side and a large serving of Hapan politics.

Under different circumstances, Elaine Cunningham's Star Wars debut would have been a perfectly enjoyable novel. She definitely makes great strides in further defining Jaina Solo's character, especially in terms of dealing with the death of one brother and the potential death of the other. Jaina's thirst for vengeance is perfectly understandable, even if not all of her actions are. Her interactions with hotshot pilot Jag Fel are a little too "romance novel" for my tastes, but her relationship with rogue Jedi Kyp Durron makes for very interesting reading.

The Hapan succession story, which was the other major focus of Dark Journey was relatively interesting, but ultimately unimportant in the grand scheme of things. This is not what the New Jedi Order series needs to focus on at this point. The Yuuzhan Vong invasion was still the main undercurrent of the book, but it should have been front and center.

Despite some interesting character development, Dark Journey serves as a brief (just under 300 pages to Star by Star's 600+) detour from the larger New Jedi Order saga. It's still well worth reading (at this point in the series you pretty much have to read everything), but is not on par with books like Star by Star or the Edge of Victory novels.

Depressing Let Down.......2007-06-23

First of all, I would like to state that Cunningham did the best job of at least trying to make the story look up a little, but she had very little to work with: Anakin dead, Jacen "Dead" and Chewie is just another excuse to mourn and moan.

This book is basically about Jaina's struggle through her grief of losing both her brothers in one day and then using outlets to deal out her anger. It's a annoying repetition of "Anakin and Jacen are dead, I'm sad and mad". It was somewhat plausible seeing as in real life people do mourn for a long time. But in books it can become annoying and boring all at once. The book went virtually nowhere. I had a different view of the story when I read the back: "Left behind a piece of her heart".
One, it was two pieces, Anakin died, and two, I first thought that Zekk would be the one to die. At least then it would make Anakin a possible hero in the future books to help bring the story back to its original glory.

No, sadly this novel didn't have too many heroes to work with and the ones left were too depressed and busy making a martyr out of Anakin to push the story further.

Jaina uses manipulation and one of the leaders of hapes to help her get her revenge and that's all that happens.

I'm not saying this is a bad book, it just didn't have a good predecessor and therefore had little else to work with.

Otherwise, it really doesn't do much for me. I read it with difficulty, hoping that someone would pop out and say "Hey people, Anakin" (Or another hero) "Is alive," or something to bring the series out of the dirt, but I lost hope as soon as they had Anakin's funeral.

With this book, I confirm that Star Wars has little potential to work with now that many new heroes have been killed off along with a few original favorites like Ackbar and Chewie.

I wish someone would just stop and write a new series that picks up on the original tone of Star Wars with all the characters restored somehow. But that's wishful thinking.

Anyways, if you can handle a book of depression and mourning, this is it. Or if you don't really mind that most of the heroes were killed off, this is a good book. I don't really reccomend reading it if you disliked Star by Star.

Great Heart and Interesting Plot..........2006-08-10

Dark Journey started out somewhat redundant, but once the young Jedi strike team reached Hapes, the plot took off. I like how this book's plot focuses more on one planet (especially with one as interesting as Hapes) and a few characters. I'm not saying that all NJO books should be this way but its a nice change. I LOVE the Kyp-Jaina and Jag-Jaina plots. Jaina desperatley needed a mentor with Mara taking care of her own child and Kyp was perfect with his experiance with falling to the dark side. Jag also adds some humor to the book by being properly bewildered by Jaina's behavior towards him. I also love how Tenel Ka's character is expanded and her feelings for Jacen were revealed. I also like having the old Han and Leia back. I didn't have high expections for this book because one of my favorite characters, Anakin would not be in it but I was pleasently surprised. I hope the new relationship between Kyp and Jaina will continue and I hope the next installment in the NJO series is just as good!

Mariel (Murl) Jorgensen, 13

book 10.......2006-06-25

you can rell this was written by a woman right off the bat.the entire book is based around leia and her search for answers and jaina solo and her inner battle vs the dark side.its really sugary and emotional as compared to the earlier books.it reasd more like a futuristic romance novel than a sci-fi action thriller.SPOILER.......oh yeah and if that wasnt enough ol elaine cunningham didnt wait for troy denning to write again and had yet another big name killed off.I CANT SAY WHO .but man i know theres a war going on and all but whats with you guys and killing off all the cool people?arent the good guys supposed to win?this was a good book but nearly as cool as the rest of the series so far.at the end jaina solo still usnt completely dark or light.id like to see her go bad just because everyone expected anakan solo too and he didnt.

The worst book in NJO series.......2006-05-14

I've only read the first 10 books of the NJO series currently, but this was by far the toughest book to finish. After getting to page 100, I had no clue where the book was going as nothing had happened. At page 200 I was still in the same mindset. Only at the end does it ever show any signs of having an advancing plot.

It's a tough book because 1) Very little happens - could almost skip this novel execept for a few key points 2) Her writing style is hard to follow. This did not feel like a NJO book, let alone a Star Wars book. It felt more like a soap opera in the middle then what it should have been. 3) The conclusion - the whole novel is built up to a long and slow point, and it just does a 180 and everything is fine.

It's sad to see other NJO books get cut while this made it into the line of books. Thankfully, it's near the middle of series so it won't detract readers from finishing the series (versus if it had been at the beginning).

They should have made this a 60 page e-novel, as they could have gotten the main points across in that much *and that's being lenient*

The Soul Retrieval Journey: Seeing in the Dark

Average customer rating:

Going Within and Beyond
Sensitive and Instructive
Sensitive and Instructive
Don't waste your time or money
Gives clear thoughts of how and why soul retrieval works.

The Soul Retrieval Journey: Seeing in the Dark
Sandra Ingerman
Manufacturer: Sounds True
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: 1591794846

Book Description

The Soul Retrieval Journey Sandra Ingerman

What Does the Shaman Know about Your Soul? Over 40,000 years ago, the first shamans ventured into the spirit realms in search of wisdom and healing. What they found, teaches Sandra Ingerman, was a secret world of teachers, animal spirits, and the soul fragments of those suffering in the ordinary world. The Soul Retrieval Journey reveals a stunning insight understood by those first shamans: that when lost parts of the soul return to the body, the mind, body, and spirit heal. On The Soul Retrieval Journey you will learn: Shamanic perspectives on illness • Soul retrieval: a step-by-step description • How to use rituals, song, dance, sacred space, prayer, and talismans to welcome your soul home; and much more.

Customer Reviews:

Going Within and Beyond.......2001-06-01

(Got the Audio Tapes) WHile Sandra speaks like a clinician, the information is incredibly valuable. She gives insights, personal and patient, that really help one to journey within and see ourselves in a new perspective. To know oneself is to heal oneself, and this work is a great way to do it.

Sensitive and Instructive.......2000-01-28

I find Sandra Ingerman's approach to this sensitive subject, straightforward. Although I do this work within my practice, I am always looking for ways to present information to people who need more information before we begin. Thank you for your work/studies/dedication to your path, and thank you also for sharing it so openly. Obviously this author is truely intrested in healing the planet and all on it. It was a joy to receive!

Sensitive and Instructive.......2000-01-28

Don't waste your time or money.......1999-12-20

Unless you have never even thought about cultural spiritualism before, you will find the content of this audeotape to be completely amateurish and shallow.

Even if you enjoy the content, the painstakingly slow delivery and annoying voice will drive you crazy.

I struggled to listen to the entire tape hoping it would pick up at some point, but the hope remained unfulfilled to the final droning comments.

Gives clear thoughts of how and why soul retrieval works........1999-09-20

Sandra tells of the process of why we lose parts of ourselves and why it is important for us to reclaim those parts. She relates how shamanic communities regularly have soul retrieval ceremonies within three days of any stress that may separate a soul piece. She tells how she got into this work and gives examples of ceremonies she has done.

Across the Wide Dark Sea: The Mayflower Journey

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Across the Wide Dark Sea: The Mayflower Journey
Jean Van Leeuwen
Manufacturer: Dial
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0803711670

Average customer rating:

Simply Amazing
"If Jeffrey Dahmer is going to heaven, then I don't want to be there."
Can God Forgive a Serial Murderer and Cannibal?
Can a story about serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer be beautiful?
chief of sinners

Dark Journey Deep Grace
Roy Ratcliff , and Lindy Adams
Manufacturer: Leafwood Publishers
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0976779021

Book Description

Crimes unspeakable. A name synonymous with twisted brutality and hate. Jeffrey Dahmer. The most notorious serial killer of our time.A decade ago his story shocked our nation and the world. But we didnrsquo;t get the whole story. In prison Dahmerrsquo;s dark journey crossed paths with deep grace.Here is the whole story told by a man who at first tried to avoid meeting Jeffrey Dahmer but later became his friend and showed him the light of Godrsquo;s love.Itrsquo;s an unexpected story of first steps in faith of surprising questions about the Bible of light breaking into darkness. A story that will change what you thought you knew about grace.Jeffrey Dahmer. Christian.Grace unspeakable.

Customer Reviews:

Simply Amazing.......2007-06-23

I was only one or two chapters into this book before I started recommending this book to my friends. The message(s) of this book is very powerful. I'm not one to write in books, but my copy of DARK JOURNEY, DEEP GRACE is covered with blue ink, underlining words and making notes in the margins.

I believe this is a book every Christian should read. It will not only teach us to forgive others, but it will remind us of how very powerful and incredible our own salvation is. None of us are deserving, yet God saved us from darkness and sin.

"If Jeffrey Dahmer is going to heaven, then I don't want to be there.".......2007-01-14

Wisconsin minister Roy Ratcliff, through a series of unexpected developments and coincidences, was offered the opportunity to spiritually counsel serial murderer Jeffrey Dahmer while he was serving fifteen life sentences. Dahmer made headlines in the early 1990's for his cannibalism, necrophilia, and dismemberment of 17 male victims. Ratcliff's story, however, is slim on the true crime details, and rich in spiritual reflections on his relationship with one of America's most notorious serial killers.

Ratcliff baptized Dahmer in the Church of Christ at Wisconsin's Columbia Correction Institution. Dahmer had completed church workbooks and study guides prior to his request for baptisim. Ratcliff's book describes his relationship with a man who was shunned not only by America as a whole, but by the Christian population of America.

Minister Ratcliff describes a strong friendship from which both men grew and developed spiritually. Ratcliff was subject to harsh criticism for counseling a man that most believed was unfit for heaven. His story, however, is not that of a jailbird conversion, but of a friendship with a deeply troubled man who long knew that his urges were demented, but was unable to control them. Dahmer was murdered in prison in 1994, but Ratcliff continues to minister to prisoners to this day (he had never visited a prisoner prior to Dahmer's request for religious contact in prison).

This book is a slim volume that is rich on reflections about religion, friendship, God, spirituality, and society's concept of forgiveness. It is (thankfully) short on true crime details. Admittedly, the dialogue does read as amateurish, and Ratcliff appears to paint himself in an overly angelic light, but this is still a worthwhile read about religion, friendship, and a crime that is imprinted in America's collective psyche.

Can God Forgive a Serial Murderer and Cannibal?.......2006-12-27

One phone call in April 1994 changed Roy Ratcliff's life forever. The call came from a fellow minister who wanted to know if Ratcliff would preside over the baptism of an inmate who was incarcerated in a prison near his home. Ratcliff had never had any experience with prison ministry. Nevertheless, he agreed to drive to the prison and meet with the prisoner. Upon being satisfied that the prisoner had a proper understanding of baptism's purpose, Ratcliff would make all the necessary arrangements. Ratcliff just needed one more piece of information: who was the prisoner making the request? The answer: Jeffrey Dahmer.

Ratcliff, like everyone else living in Wisconsin in the 1990s, was familiar with Dahmer's horrific story of torture, murder, necrophilia and cannibalism. When Ratcliff met Dahmer in late April 1994, he was surprised at Dahmer's quiet demeanor, his fairly lean frame and his small hands. Satisfied that Dahmer understood the meaning of baptism and that his desire was sincere, Ratcliff made arrangements for Dahmer's baptism in May 1994.

After Dahmer's baptism, Ratcliff continued meeting with him for weekly Bible studies and discussions. Little did they know that, in late November 1994, their friendship would be severed by Dahmer's brutal murder at the hands of another prisoner.

His friendship with Dahmer changed Ratcliff's life in several ways. First, the responses of other Christians to Ratcliff's ministry with Dahmer challenged Ratcliff to think deeply about the concepts of mercy, grace and justice. Some Christians encouraged Ratcliff's efforts, others believed Ratcliff was being conned and still others believed Dahmer was too evil to be forgiven. Second, Ratcliff's belief in Dahmer's sincerity and his friendship with Dahmer led him to believe more deeply in God's unconditional love. Third, following his ministry with Dahmer, Ratcliff became involved in several other prison ministries, activities that he is still engaged in a dozen years later.

Ratcliff states unequivocally that God can and does forgive the Jeffrey Dahmers of the world. Ratcliff also states unequivocally that divine forgiveness does not expunge the need for earthly justice. Ratcliff believes that people who cannot understand these distinctions are confused about the natures of both God and society. Social justice required, rightly, according to Ratcliff, that Dahmer should serve out his sentence regardless of his spiritual condition. Ratcliff reports that Dahmer also accepted his penalty as a just one. Neither of these men ever viewed spiritual conversion as a "get out of jail free" card. According to Ratcliff:

"A gross misunderstanding of what Jeff's baptism accomplished was apparent. No one said Jeff was no longer guilty of his crimes. He would not be released from prison, nor should he be, dependent upon his baptism. Baptism does not take away crimes. It addresses sins. The issue in baptism doesn't concern justice in the society. It concerns the forgiveness of God. . . . Jeff's crimes cry out for justice. . . . No one understood this quite as well as Jeff" (pp. 85-86).

This is a profoundly moving book, an unpretentious chronicle of an unlikely friendship that developed around a seemingly unlikely faith. Christians interested in stories of personal testimony will find this book interesting, as it offers insights into the spiritual lives of two men, Ratcliff and Dahmer. They should also find it uplifting, because it offers the promise of present and future redemption to all people, regardless of their past transgressions. Finally, readers of any faith, and even people with no faith, who read this book will be challenged to reconsider their ideas about God, evil and justice.

Can a story about serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer be beautiful?.......2006-12-17

Can a story about serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer be beautiful?

My mind takes me to a verse in the gospel of John: "The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it" (John 1:8 ESV). Dark Journey Deep Grace shows that the darkness of Jeffrey Dahmer's past cannot overcome the light of Christ. The grace of Christ Jesus is more than able to transform a life that has known the depths of depravity.

I was apprehensive about reading this book because of the inevitable retelling of Dahmer's crimes. A couple of chapters are somewhat disturbing, but I found that grace runs through this account. I see it in Dahmer's desire to be baptized and to obediently follow Christ. Because he had done so much wrong, he wanted so badly to do everything right that it bordered on legalism.

This is where God used Roy Ratcliff, a sincere and humble Church of Christ pastor that God uniquely prepared for this situation. Overwhelmed with regret for his crimes, Dahmer thought of suicide. Ratcliff at one time was so low over a failed pastorate that he too contemplated the same. He gently helped Dahmer to see the issue in light of Scripture, and was also able through their ongoing study of the Bible to guide Dahmer away from a legalistic faith. Ratcliff wanted Dahmer to know that he was fully loved and accepted by God.

Ratcliff never sought notoriety, but he had to deal with it when word of Dahmer's baptism reached the press. The grief that it caused was overshadowed by his concern for his relationship with the man he knew as Jeff. He was pleasantly surprised to learn that Dahmer was glad that people learned of his baptism. Dahmer had a desire to share his faith with others.

This is a wonderful account, simply told, of Ratcliff's seven-month relationship with Dahmer. One of the beautiful aspects of the book is that the two became friends. As a result, Ratcliff is able to share intimately about how Dahmer changed after becoming a Christian.

Dahmer dared to ask the question: Is there a place in heaven for a sinner like me? This book answers yes. It's surprising to learn that many people, including Christians, found it difficult to believe that Dahmer could be forgiven and have a place in heaven. It makes one wonder if Christians truly believe that the vilest offender can receive pardon from sin through faith in Christ.

Ratcliff uses misunderstanding in the minds of people to write briefly about the difference between forgiveness and justice. This might help those who struggle with the thought of God accepting Dahmer and his being a Christian. The book, however, leaves little doubt about his faith being genuine.

The writing is excellent making for easy reading. The author shows a wonderful balance in what he chose to write about. He wisely and tactfully addresses a number of issues without being preachy.

There's a beauty in being able to tell the truth in a simple and straightforward manner. That's what I find here.

This is a tragic story made beautiful in the end by the grace of God.

chief of sinners.......2006-11-22

Reviewed by Richard R. Blake for Reader Views (10/06)

The words grotesque, depraved, and heinous, do not adequately describe the horror of mayhem and murder attributed to the appalling nature of Jeffrey Dahmer's criminal offenses. Dahmer is described as a "handsome, former tennis player, the son of middle-class parents, and a perverse serial killer whose unthinkable acts shocked the nation?"

In his statement to the court in 1992, Jeffrey Dahmer said, "Your Honor, I know my time in prison will be terrible, but I deserve whatever I get because of what I have done. Thank you, Your Honor, I am prepared for your sentence, which I know will be the maximum, I ask for no consideration."

"Dark Journey, Deep Grace" asks the question, "Can God forgive even Jeffrey Dahmer?" This is the story of Jeffrey's journey from remorse, to repentance, to redemption.

Author, Roy Ratcliff expressed the beginning of the journey this way, "Jeff confessed to me his great remorse for his crimes. He doubted he could be forgiven. He wished he could do something for the families of his victims to make it right, but there was nothing he could do. He turned to God because there was no one else to turn to, but he showed great courage in his daring to ask the question, `Is heaven for me too?'...he dared to ask and he dared to believe the answer."

Roy was often asked if Jeffrey was sincere in his desire for baptism and in his Christian life. Roy addresses this common skepticism about prison ministry and last-minute conversions. His response is a resounding, "Yes!" Ratcliff also details Jeffrey's extreme swing to legalism and his new passion to do things right in every aspect of his new life and faith.

On November 28, 1994 Jeffrey Dahmer was killed by another inmate in the prison facility. Seven month's earlier Roy Ratcliff, a minister from a community near the prison baptized Jeffrey in a whirlpool. In the months that followed, Roy visited Jeff weekly to nurture him in the Christian faith and to study the Bible together. Jeff was eager to learn more and was full of questions about following Christ's teaching. His life revealed evidence of growing in understanding and in growing into Christian maturity.

In God's providence Roy recognized Jeff as a friend, and as a brother in the faith. This is a story of man's sinfulness and God's grace.

Roy Ratcliff working with co-author Lindy Adams has created a masterful contrast of man's darkest evil and the power of God's forgiveness and His redeeming grace. "Dark Journey, Deep Grace" is profound in the questions raised and powerful in the answers provided. This story of Jeffrey Dahmer dramatically demonstrates God's grace, forgiveness, and his eternal destiny.

Fear Up Harsh: An Army Interrogator's Dark Journey Through Iraq

Average customer rating:

good book and should be read by every American
Just Another Opportunist
This book should be mandatory reading for any American
Torture exposed to a national audience.
An Interrogator Looks Back

Fear Up Harsh: An Army Interrogator's Dark Journey Through Iraq
Tony Lagouranis , and Allen Mikaelian
Manufacturer: NAL Hardcover
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Military & Spies | Professionals & Academics | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books

Iraq | Middle East | History | Subjects | Books

General | Military | History | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 0451221125

Book Description

So begins Army interrogator Tony Lagouranis's first briefing at Abu Ghraib. When the U.S. went to war with Iraq, Lagouranis-who joined the Army prior to September 11-was tapped to be an interrogator in places like Abu Ghraib and Fallujah. He believed in his mission, but he soon discovered that pushing the legal limits of interrogation was encouraged. Under orders, he-along with numerous other soldiers-abused and terrorized hundreds of prisoners by adding "enhancements" to "Fear Up Harsh," an official tactic designed to terrify prisoners into revealing information.

This is an unflinching first-hand account of how one man struggled with his own conscience and ultimately broke the silence surrounding interrogation practices. The first Army interrogator to step forward and publicly denounce these tactics, Lagouranis reveals what went on in Iraqi prisons-raising crucial questions about American conduct abroad.

Customer Reviews:

good book and should be read by every American.......2007-07-11

shows the ugly truth of what we are being reduced to by the idiots running this country. Bush lovers beware - this aint for you.

Just Another Opportunist.......2007-06-26

No matter how poignant, timely, or interesting Mr. Lagouranis's story may be, or how sincere and intelligent he comes across in an interview on television, we are at war, ladies and gentleman. Our soldiers' lives are risked every day in Iraq and Afghanistan. Efforts such as Mr. Lagouranis's, written in the safety and shelter of the United States, undermine theirs so far away, and play into directly the hands of our sophisticated enemies. Whether or not it was right to go to Iraq is not the issue. This is about personal integrity in a time of war. Tony is nothing more than another Haliburton, Titan Corp, Bectel, retired General, talking head know it all, etc.; he is a war opportunist, indeed a profiteer. All he has done is cash in on a hot topic while it's still hot with yet another tell all book, without the skill, mind you, like so many of these guys popping up lately, to write it himself. Did you contact your ghost writer or did he contact you, Tony? Shame on you, soldier, and I cringe to call you that. You were barely in the Army long enough to figure out what soldiering really means. Enjoy dinner at the fancy restaurants and your 15 minutes of celebrity. Your buddies are sweating it out overseas in the streets of Baghdad.

SGT Lewis

This book should be mandatory reading for any American.......2007-06-10

This is a searing memoir, the story of one man's struggle to retain his humanity and sanity in the midst of the often irrational circumstances of the US/Iraq War.
Lagouranis, an educated enlistee turned Army interrogator, has a unique take on the US failure to understand the Iraqi population. Lagouranis is no cut-and-run liberal - he's a thoughtful narrator and an informed gide through the quagmire that is Iraq.

Torture exposed to a national audience........2007-06-08

I heard Tony Lagouranis on the Alan Colmes Show last night. He's an incredibly courageous and well-spoken person. I was so impressed, I immediately ordered his book, as did many others judging from the way it shot up on the Amazon ranking overnight.
Obviously, I haven't yet read the book, but from what I gathered during the Colmes interview (which was challenging, yet respectful), this book is a must read. Surprisingly, all the people who called in to speak with Lagouranis thanked him for his effort. Usually, Colmes has an army of those who have been "Hannitized" ready to call in and harangue Alan or other people who dare to question elite corporatism and militarism. They had nothing to say to Tony. Alan himself was so struck by what Tony said, that he was talking about the issue long after his guest had left the studio.
People can also find Lagouranis in the excellent docementary on US torture Ghosts of Abu Ghraib

"Every government explains its existence and justifies all its violence on the ground that if it were not there, things would be worse. Having convinced the people that they are in danger, the governments dominate them. And when peoples are dominated by governments, the latter compel them to attack each other. And in this way, a belief in the governments' assurance of the danger of attacks by other nations is confirmed among the peoples.
Divide and conquer." -Leo Tolstoy, "Christianity and Patriotism"

An Interrogator Looks Back.......2007-06-07

I was lucky enough to have seen Tony when he spoke on June 6th. I had also heard him on the Diane Rehm show the day before.

I know plenty of people will disagree with Tony's perception of what constitutes "torture." But don't be fooled by the usual rhetoric of 'I saw worse fraternity initiations" or "they cut off heads and that is REAL torture." Regarding the Geneva Conventions, there is a difference between "violation" and "grave breach." As an example I saw when I went to see Dr. Gary Solis (a Viet vet and retired colonel), if you slap somebody that is assault; if you punch them in the mouth that is assault too. The difference is severity, which would be reflected in the punishment.

Tony details how he went to the Defense Language Institute in order to learn Arabic, which was all pre-9/11. He was sent to AIT for training as an interrogator. As he stated today, he could not be signals intercept due to the fact he had outstanding student loans and would not qualify for the necessary Top Secret clearance.

His training as an interrogator stressed the Geneva Conventions and what they could and could not do. When he got to Iraq, however, all that went out the window. There were different new rules written for interrogators in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Guantanamo. Putting prisoners in stress positions and inducing hypothermia were deemed illegal during his training, but now they were informed that that did not now consitute "torture," and anything up to organ failure was okay.

Tony details how soldiers acted differently in his different assignments. He stated that at Mosul interrogators got ideas from watching movies, which was all nonsense. When he got to Abu Ghraib, the scandal had already hit and things were changed. His most ghoulish experience was when he was sent to Fallujah, during the battle, in order to evaluate the personal items with the insurgents who were killed. He examined the effects on over 500 bodies, a process that gave him nightmares.

Tony makes the point that all studies, even by the CIA, noted that torture does not provide real and reliable "actional intelligence." They will say anything to make it stop, essentially lie, and may even clam up. Building a "relationship" takes time and a good interrogator--a real pro so to say.

Tony stated at the lecture he would either like to go to law school in order to study human rights, or even just to work with human rights organizations. I think the most important lesson to come away with from this book is that some people know the difference between right and wrong, and some people obviously do not.

Average customer rating:

Bula Matari "The Rock Breaker" indeed
Hate the author, Love the Historical Perspective
Lies? Yes. But That's The Point
One helluva read.
Propaganda by the author of an African holocaust

Through the Dark Continent:Volume 1
Henry M. Stanley
Manufacturer: Dover Publications
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Africa | History | Subjects | Books

Travel | Writing | Reference | Subjects | Books

General | Africa | Travel | Subjects | Books

Essays & Travelogues | Reference & Tips | Travel | Subjects | Books

ASIN: 0486256677

Book Description

Volume 1 of great explorer's classic account of explorations of lakes of Central Africa, perilous journey down unexplored Congo River. Incredible hardships, perseverance. 90 black-and-white illustrations. Map.

Customer Reviews:

Bula Matari "The Rock Breaker" indeed.......2003-03-04

The natives of Africa who worked with Stanley called him Bulla Marari - "The Rock Breaker", and with good reason. It is really very hard to appreciate Stanley's accomplishments from today's perspective. In 1874, Stanley left Zanzibar. By 1877, he had crossed the continent and reached the Atlantic Ocean. There is nothing modern man can do that would equal this accomplishment. Today's daring adventurers climb rocks or mountains or go bungee jumping. Stanley was traveling into the unknown. Not even space exploration today holds the quality of the unknown, as did Africa in Stanley's time. The hardship he faced during this time was unbelievable by today's standards. His circumnavigation of Lake Victoria alone contained a constant stream of near death scrapes that not only required staggering amounts of physical courage, but a mental toughness as well. A lot of the reviews I have read on this work focus on Stanley's political incorrectness. I urge a closer reading of the work. Stanley was actually extremely open minded and, more than anything, fair in his views and certainly very progressive. When discussing the character of the African natives, Stanley was of the opinion that "they are, in short, equal to any other race or colour on the face of the globe, in all the attributes of manhood." Stanley was an insightful enough observer to draw comparisons between African legends and Christian beliefs, giving each equal respect and recognizing their similarities. Stanley even at one point performs the ceremony of blood-brotherhood with the famous chief Mirambo, which involved the sharing of blood by mutual cuts on the leg. I would suggest that Stanley was not only a progressive during his own time, but for any time. He judged men simply by deeds, nothing more or less. If only Stanley recieved the same standard of judgement. In Stanley's time, so much was unknown, and the world seemed so large and rich. In our time, so much more is known, and yet our world has become so narrow, specialized and petty. There can never be another man like Stanley. We are all far more interested in watching a teenager eat a plate of worms on "Fear Factor."

Hate the author, Love the Historical Perspective.......2002-07-24

Yes, this book is full of lies and it's the least PC thing I've ever read, and for that it is worthy of interest. The voice is the thing here, and it really adds a dimension of understanding how the Europeans could have been so stupid and so entrepreneurial at the same time.

Of note: It is lacking in the delicious details that make up a good adventure read, a-la Cherry Gerards's "Worst Journey in the World." After reading this book, I know little about the lower classes on the expedition, nor have I learned anything about the how's and what's of the everyday life of the explorer. But what I did get was invaluable insight into the mind of a quite exceptional (American) imperialist of the time, unfiltered through the lenses of modern sensibilities or morals. Yes, Stanley was a colossal a-hole, but just because he is so objectionable doesn't make his accomplishments any less extraordinary or this book any less valuable.

Lies? Yes. But That's The Point.......2001-12-19

Of course this book of full of lies, but that is what makes it so great. If you are reading this book through the eyes of a historian, and can't get past the lies, your eyes aren't open all the way. Stanley's "Through the Dark Continent" shows us the European idealogy of African colonization. All his lies are not produced simply for the purpose of lying, or hiding the truth. He lies to give Europe what it wants: a perfect arena for the civilizing mission. These savages that throw themselves at the feet of Stanley are perfect for conversion. This book helped propel imperialization in its own time, and now shows us how they did such.
When reading this book, use your knowledge of Stanley's deception to get in the mind frame of a late 19th century explorer, not just to experience the adventures; that is the true joy of reading primary sources.

One helluva read........2001-10-16

Startling book that should be read by everyone interested in the history of Central Africa. Probably, the greatest adventure book ever written.

Interesting that Stanley, back in 1875, was aware that the Muslims from Arabia were "fanatical" as compared to other Muslims. To Arabian Muslims, everyone who didn't believe in the Koran was an infidel and should be killed.

Have only read a little more than half the book and can hardly put it down. The previous two posts are way off base. Probably written by Muslims or those of African decent who have little pride in their history.

Propaganda by the author of an African holocaust.......2001-07-30

As noted already by another reviewer, if you do read this book, please read "King Leopold's Ghost" by Hochschild. The latter is a wonderfully written account of a nightmare society that was built with Stanley's willing cooperation (Stanleyville was named after him). Moreover Hochschild's account is the result of years of research in libraries to reconstruct a history that King Leopold, Stanley's backer, sought hard to obliterate. When you read headlines today about atrocities in the Congo today, be aware that Stanley is very directly responsible for what has happened. To give you an insight into the man, his contemporaries report that he enjoyed shooting Africans for sport. Conrad's "Heart of Darkness" is based on his own first-hand experiences in the Congolese slave society that Stanley helped to build. Too many good people sacrificed lives and careers to bring this to light, for people to now ignore the truth.

Money for Nothing: One Man's Journey Through the Dark Side of Lottery Millions

Average customer rating:

Shark feeds on lottery winners
Self-Loathing and Salesmanship
Too Many Hands, Not Enough Soap
Money for Something
Writing for nothing

Money for Nothing: One Man's Journey Through the Dark Side of Lottery Millions
Edward Ugel
Manufacturer: Collins
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 0061284173
Release Date: 2007-09-18

Book Description

In his wry and funny memoir, Edward Ugel tells the story of America's addiction to the lottery from an astonishing angle.

At age twenty-six, Ed found himself broke, knee-deep in gambling debt, and moving back into his parents' basement. It all changed, however, when he serendipitously landed a job as a salesman for The Firm--a company that offered up-front cash to lottery winners in exchange for their prize money, often paid in agonizingly small annual payments, some lasting up to twenty-five years. For the better part of the ensuing decade, Ed spent his time closing deals with lottery winners, making a lucrative and legitimate--if sometimes not-so-nice--living by taking advantage of their weaknesses . . . weaknesses he knew all too well.

Ed met hundreds of lottery winners and saw up-close the often hilarious, sometime sad outcome when great wealth is dropped on ordinary people. Once lottery winners realized their "dream-come-true" multimillion jackpots were not all that they were cracked up to be, Ed would knock on their door, offering them the cash they wanted-and often desperately need. This cash sometimes came at a high price, but winners were rarely in a position to walk the other way. As Ed learned, few of them had the financial savvy to keep up with the lottery-winner lifestyle. In fact, some just wanted their old lives back.

A charmingly neurotic gambler, Ed traveled deep into the heart of the country where he discovered the American Dream looks a lot like a day at the casino. And Ed knows casinos. In fact, his own taste for gambling gave him a unique insight into lottery winners: he intimately understood their mindset, making it that much easier to relate to them. And like lottery winners, Ed struggled to find balance in his own life as his increasing success earned him a bigger and bigger salary. Even as he relished his accomplishments, he grappled with the question: "If you are good at something that is bad for some people, does that make you a bad person?"

Ed Ugel takes the readers inside the captivating world of lottery winners and shows us how lotteries and gambling have become deeply inscribed in every aspect of American life shaping our image of success and good fortune. Money for Nothing is a witty, wise, and often outrageously funny account of high expectations and easy money.

Customer Reviews:

Shark feeds on lottery winners.......2007-10-09

This is the story of how a man finds a way to earn a good living.

He hard sells lottery winners, who are sometimes financially clueless, on his company's lump-sum deals. He chronicles the history of state lotteries, stressing how math-challenged the players are and how eager for revenues the states are. But the bulk of the book is an uncomfortable lesson in high-pressure selling of a product you really shouldn't buy.

He even explains how one poor sap asked how much money he would receive for signing away his lottery millions on the way to sign the papers!

Sarcastic and frankly smartass in tone, this is anything but a hilarious book. One good thing though -- it may keep readers away from lotteries.

Self-Loathing and Salesmanship.......2007-10-05

In this volume, Edward Ugel can't decide if he should be ashamed of himself making a damn good living bilking lottery winners (he should be) or celebrate his successful sales techniques.

The book wanders back and forth between a business text on how to sell, ("meet the customer's needs"--now there's an insight), a history of lotteries (wikipedia, maybe), a look at the pressures on people who win the various state lotteries and then become so desperate for cash they sell their annuity (for pennies on the dollar, althought Ugel never does say how much they get) and how the author mispent his own time and (large amounts of) money). That was Ugel's own form of lottery winning. He took in plenty of money as commissions for signing up these "cash-poor" winners; but inside he knew he was more like these "winners" too, because he couldn't keep any of it either.

As the book fizzles out into an account of his own gambling in Vegas and Atlantic City, he becomes one of the loser-winners he cashes out. He can't handle the finance and his own bad habits.

Too Many Hands, Not Enough Soap.......2007-09-29

Talk about mixed feelings. On one hand, I was disappointed that Money for Nothing didn't spend more time describing the experiences of lottery winners. There's some of that in this book, but not much. On the other hand, I was fascinated to read about an entire industry that I had no idea even existed.

Then there's the tone of the book. On one hand it often reads like something from the 1950s, a hard-driving salesman who parties in Vegas and motivates himself by screaming "I am King Kong!". But on the other hand, Ugel also sounds like a nerdy Gen X-er who thinks too much, like someone from This American Life, a show he's written for.

Ugel works for a company that pays lottery winners a lump sum for their future payments. He never divulges how much the company pays the lottery winners, because they pay as little as they can get away with. It depends on how much the lottery winner needs cash and how skilled the salesman is. Using California as an example, let's say you win a jackpot of 26 million dollars. If you take the annual payment option, the Califonia Lottery will pay you an average of a million dollars (before taxes) per year for 26 years. The Lottery doesn't actually have the 26 million now, but if they invest about 13 million (depending on current interest rates) now, they'll be able to pay you 26 million over 26 years. If you opt for a lump sum payment, they simply give you that 13 million now. Ugel's company does something like that for winners who don't have the lump sum option in their state or didn't when they won. He describes it as a service for people who want it. It would be a service, just like cashing checks or lending money can be a service. Except when it's those usurious check cashing places in the strip malls or loan sharks that charge exorbitant rates.

So on one hand, it's disgusting that Ugel spent years smooth-talking people into giving up their future winnings on some fast cash now, but on the other hand these lottery winners squandered a lot of money if they're so hard up they need to even talk to a Ugel or his oily colleagues.

I'm not the only one who's conflicted about this. Ugel spends much of the book justifying the business of buying out lottery winnings for pennies on the dollar. He also spends a lot of time wallowing in self-hatred for having being so successful at such a slimy occupation.

At one point Ugel describes having a ritual fried chicken dinner before closing on a big deal. "I was nervous and my palms were sweating. The sweat mixed with the grease from the chicken...I was a mess. I had to get out of there. I stopped into the bathroom and compulsively washed my hands, soap and water, soap and water, soap and water, trying to get rid of the grease." After reading Money for Nothing, I know how he feels. Keep scrubbing, Ed.

Money for Something.......2007-09-25

Ed Ugel has a cracking wit and great stories that will have you grinning as you read. For people fascinated by the American Dream, lotteries, get-rich-quick scams, and the good 'ole stock market, this is a worthy, entertaining, and strangely educational read.

Writing for nothing.......2007-09-25

I am probably one of the only people to disagree with the otherwise glowing reviews of this book, but I found the writing bad, and the topic painfully boring. I had an advanced reader copy and I really wasn't impressed with this first time author. I thought this would be a great book about lottery winners and their struggles. It is self absorbed study of a young, very immature man's probelms with his own gambling habit and apparent lack of principles. I really had to make an effort to read this one. Just not great. Dull reading and unfortunate topic matter--how to take advantage of ignorant people.

Coming Out of the Dark: A Journey Out of Depression

Average customer rating:

Depression doesn't mean you are being punished!

Coming Out of the Dark: A Journey Out of Depression
Mary Southerland
Manufacturer: Harvest House Publishers
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Depression | Mental Health | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

Mental Illness | Psychology & Counseling | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

General | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 0736914544

Customer Reviews:

Depression doesn't mean you are being punished!.......2005-09-17

Finally a book on depression that is a real person. As a ministers wife, Mary was struck with severe clinical depression and panic attacks. She tells her tale of recovery, the root of her depression, real life stories and how she is doing today. She talks about how embarresing it was for her, of all people to not want to lead the choir anymore, or attend church anymore. She gives great insight into what she did on her darkest days, parts of the bible that inspire and uplift you. For the first time I felt like I can get better, and that being blue is not a punishement for sin. Mary reveals what was at the heart of her depression and what triggered her major breakdown. She provides simple and direct steps to take to start to feel better. Mary is also very careful not to underestimate the need for medical help. She also doesn't believe it's all in your head or that you should just fake it. This is an outstanding and uplifting book. I wish every person (believer or not) that is suffering, has suffered, or has family suffering from depression could have a copy of this book. God Bless Mary Sutherland!!

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