Shackled by Adversity, Sustained by Grace: The Mysterious Coping Ability of the Human Mind (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9781796059397)

This book speaks to the daily realities of anyone -regardless of race, color, origin, culture, belief, social strata, and gender- anyone who dares call him/herself "human". The thoughtprovoking question here is, what does one do when the nightfall lingers with no daybreak in sight; when stubborn affl iction becomes his/her fl anking companion, day in and day out? I truly believe in the redemptive and mystical power of suff ering. It is, in essence, that inner agony, which has not only inspired this book, but also personifi ed the invisible and excruciating pain, by giving it a face which can be seen and touched, a voice which can be heard, and an emotion which can be felt. Exposure to trials of all kinds, which one endures with steadfast courage, produces, at the end, resiliency and strong character. Walsh (2006) stated "Resiliency can be defi ned as the capacity to rebound from adversity strengthened and more resourceful. It is an active process of endurance, self-righting, and growth in response to crisis and challenge". Resilient people demonstrate an uncommon ability to manage positively common life's daily transactions. They exhibit exemplary courage and determination when confronted with traumatic events such as death, divorce, life-threatening illness, disaster, social injustice, racism and discrimination, etc. One's belief plays a crucial role in the manner, which he/she approaches life's stressful demands, daily responsibilities, and ongoing challenges.