Thursday, December 18, 2008

Inspirational Stories

For Whom the Bells Toll
One of December's seasonal sounds is the sound of bells. No, these bells are not jingle bells; they are the bells of the Salvation Army.

In Breakfast at Sally's (a reference to Salvation Army soup kitchens), Richard LeMieux tells the story of his happy marriage, successful career, and upscale lifestyle. In short order his business collapses; his family is gone; he's homeless and living in a van with his dog, Willow.

LeMieux travels... Ultimately, he finds the will and with enormous grace, tells the stories of real people whose lives are changed by economic hardship. The book is all at once heartbreaking, inspiring, and honestly written.

Further Reading and Viewing: The Soloist by Steve Lopez and The Pursuit of Happyness by Chris Gardner