Friday, January 15, 2010

33 Habits of A Really Good Man

   Yvonne Swinson’s 33 Habits of a Really Good Man is a truly uplifting memoir that delivers many positive messages, most importantly the message of hope. Bill Wells, Yvonne Swinson’s father, probably never imagined that his black notebook full of quotes would wind up the inspiration for a book of life lessons. Though he is no longer with us, he leaves us his legacy through inspirational quotes and simple teachings that reflect the way he lived.

Swinson pairs Bill Wells’ thirty-three habits with famous quotes, sometimes funny and always thought-provoking. Examples of the thirty-three habits include speaking softly, doing your best, change begins with me, I can, and many more. The words of Bill Wells will teach the world that the art of living a good life begins with forming good habits. Wells states, “It does no good to learn a thing if you don’t retain it—no better way to learn a behavior than to make it a habit.”

This relatively small adult read delivers one big lesson: do not complicate life more than necessary; be satisfied in life’s simplicity. For example, one of his habits was, “Don’t take offense.” This one truth alone can open the door to a truly content life.

Other habits such as “Dream Big,” “Laugh often,” and “Have fun,” seem so simple and straightforward, yet so few put forth the effort to do these. Most would agree that adopting these three habits would yield such beneficial results; it’s just a matter of slowing down, reflecting, and making time for what’s really important in life.

33 Habits of a Really Good Man is Bill Wells’ blessing to the world. Instead of being lost in history, we’re so fortunate that Yvonne is sharing her father’s thoughts on life.

This little book would make a perfect gift for a graduate or for anyone who simply needs a refreshing, new outlook on life. It’s a quick read full of uplifting mini-stories and quotes—it will not disappoint.