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The author's tumultuous childhood portended a life of dysfunction, as generational alcoholism paved a path for Dewindt to continue the generational trauma. However, her unyielding resolve to change her narrative, come hell or high water, is downright stirring. Inspired by Viola Davis' famous line in The Help, this book is a thought-provoking plea to reflect on what is holding one back from experiencing that unharnessed joy.
Visceral moments, like the image of the author and her sister singing while taking down a forty-ounce bottle of Olde English, serve as a time capsule of just how deep Dewindt was and how close she could have come to fully surrendering to that abyss of hopelessness. Nevertheless, the rise is greater than the fall. In Dewindt's case, she not only shares her transformation but also provides an actionable blueprint—such as her alphabet affirmation method—for audiences facing similar obstacles to emulate. Further, simply being tired isn't enough. Reining in one's mind to work for a person and their interests is pertinent. The end result is a remarkable dose of perspective that acts as a shield from life's chaos.
Even when discussing her failed marriages or reflecting on how authority figures fall woefully short in protecting a child's sanctity and sanity, the author remains steadfast that each individual has a choice. As the memoir progresses, each section becomes a puzzle piece that reveals the tenacity with which Dewindt protects her peace and lives every moment with gratitude. A phrase Dewindt integrates, "subconscious smiling," perfectly captures the author's approach to life as she stands on her own feet and thrives. Ultimately, the work is raw and authentic, a must-read that shows the ferocity of the human spirit is alive and well.
RECOMMENDED by the US Review