March 14, 2011
A motivational tone pervades this guide to preparing for life's challenges by embracing the possibility that good work may be accomplished through faithful navigation of life's storms. Black (From the Hood to the Hill: A Story of Overcoming), a retired U.S. Navy admiral and current chaplain of the U.S. Senate, speaks with the authority of one who has endured and overcome setbacks and humiliations. He refers several times to painful childhood memories of evictions when he came home to find family furniture on the street, and then notes his gratitude when years later he purchased a house for his hardworking mother, whom he credits for raising him in faith. Three sections, "Mastering the Basics," "Avoiding the Sources of Trouble," and "Turning Your Adversity into Advantage," each divide into chapters with subdivisions, resulting in action plans. For example, the chapter "Win by Waiting," includes sections like "Wait for God," "Trust God's Providence," and "Refuse to Murmur and Complain." Drawing lessons from biblical witnesses (Joseph, David, Mary, Paul), religious figures like Martin Luther King Jr., and his rich pastoral experience, Black offers a resource that many readers may find inspiring guidance.