Stephens continues his journey of self-reflection, healing, and veterans' advocacy in this third inspirational memoir volume that follows The Mirror and The Broken Mirror. Though brief, this narrative is powerfully packed with Stephens' authentic insights about the trauma that shaped his childhood, culminating in a military career (with promotions in rank) and five tours of combat duty that left him with more scars and confusion. Ultimately, the hard times were rewarded with the insights he freely shares with others and led to his status as a "voice for the voiceless," through his development of 1821, his platform serving a network of veterans, civilians, and creatives afflicted with PTSD and other mental health challenges. Stephens is also proud of his ongoing progress in repairing his relationship with his daughter, Izabel. He writes: "You served your country, but that doesn't mean you served your daughter. Show her a different kind of bravery: the kind that shows up, humbles itself, and stays consistent—whether she welcomes you or not."

Stephens also shares many practical pointers culled from his experiences with self-publishing, hybrid publishing, and book promotion. From creating covers and book marketing strategies to cautioning about the numerous scams targeting aspiring authors, Stephens' sage advice on the writing life is presented in his strong, entertaining voice. As with other facets of his life, Stephens reveals his struggles and mistakes as a newbie author with clarity, baring all in his quest to grow and inspire others to stand tall and create a unique legacy. Stephens possesses that rare quality of understanding that, despite our unique, individual identities, we humans are interconnected in a vast web of conscious awareness, responsible to ourselves and others. What we do for one, we do for all, our thoughts and actions rippling onward and upward to infinite possibilities.

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