The word ‘inspire’ conjures up images of motivational words, experiences and situations designed to uplift and enlighten those with whom you come in contact, whether directly or through the powerful message delivered through the cohesive fusion of words. I am assuming that is where Patrick Aiken was heading with his book, Why Me
& Where Is My Happiness?
but I simply did not get it!
Let me first say, I am by no means a dream killer. I understand some people have a need and desire to write and share their story, which hopefully has an impact on readers who will drink the Kool-Aid from their foundation of knowledge, wisdom and understanding. I get all of that. However, I did not get this notion from his book.
Billed as a ‘realistic and inspirational guide’, I am still trying to figure out if this book is an auto-biography or an inspirational guide, which offers self-help tips for those lost in this murky haze we call life and are in need of a literary compass to lead them through to safe, shallow waters.
As I started reading, I became confused as to the direction and purpose of the book said to provide inspiration to readers to be responsible to do what is good; open their eyes to the detrimental things that can tear families apart and provide understanding about where one can go wrong when building a family and the realisation we sometimes unconsciously bring negative vibes to our situation.
That and more was promised but, it was lost in translation.
I will give him kudos for his effort and for the fact the second half of the book holds promise, like when he got into his daughter’s illness and the stark reality of his time in Caymans, which was in sharp contrast to what he was promised; those stories and the way he told them plainly and honestly captured my attention. It was not overly flowery and held no excessive injections of anecdotes and pearls of wisdom so, it was good reading all around and different from how he started out on his literary journey.
To continue reading , purchase Vol. 8 #1 2015 issue