Outskirts Press, INC.

A Collection of the Unexpected

2019 CIPA EVVY AWARD - 3rd Place Self-Help Non-Fiction

There are times in my life, when I wasn’t truly looking around to see the goodness that exists. I am extremely lucky to have people who have mentored me along the way by their examples, words and actions to look for the good. I have learned and witnessed that if you open your eyes and ears, you can live your life staying present to the positive. This book is just that. It is a collection of stories that may inspire you, challenge you, or let you see a situation in an entirely new way.

I have never thought very highly of myself. I guess that makes me a bit insecure. Like all of you, I have individual strengths, and for me, a good number of areas where I fall short. There are so many people who have put me back on the path when I got lost, or guided me when I needed direction. Or, they have told me where I can have an impact, when I am unsure. I have also seen how we do not give ourselves enough credit for who we are and we may also feel we do not fully measure up. God made you in a way that no one can fully duplicate. Even identical twins differ in ways of approaching life. But, that in its essence is where beauty lies. You have something to give that someone else has never been able to fully tap. You have the power to share what you have been blessed and given, with someone who needs your skill set. Realize the person in front of you, or beside you, or at your back puts on their pants one leg at a time. (If you don’t wear pants, this story may have little meaning for you). My point is we are all human beings, all trying to get by with our own bags of phenomenal attributes, some bad memories and experiences, but so much more to offer each other. You may not fully realize your indelible impact on the person who you just met, or is in your presence right now.