In this tale of an extraordinary life, Leggette details his journey to find success and fulfillment through persistence in difficulties. He lovingly begins with his family legacies: from his maternal great-grandparents, born into slavery, to his paternal great-grandfather, who founded their community Baptist church, to his parents' determination to survive their own struggles. He introduces readers to his rural hometown of Kemper Springs, Mississippi, where he grew up on his parents' farm and attended community schools. The narrative follows him through high school, college, and the Army Reserves, including an assignment in Germany. He returns to finish his college degree and then finds a job as an electronic technician with the FAA. He moves up the ranks, taking every course possible to learn more about his trade. The book chronicles his career trajectory to retirement and beyond, as he delves into activities that pique his intellect and faith. Through it all, his story demonstrates that "strength grows out of struggle."

This is an incredibly heartfelt life story from a man who has met each obstacle with determined grace. The author's matter-of-fact tone carries the narrative, and he does not shy away from serious and at times deeply disturbing accounts of segregation, racial injustice, and socioeconomic disparities. His deep gratitude for those who have inspired and challenged him is evident in every chapter, where he lists dozens of people who have impacted his life by name. His grateful attitude is truly infectious and will inspire readers to reflect on their own "progress through struggle." It is a blessing to have this thorough account, steeped in history and details about subjects as varied as the history of Mississippi, sharecropping, military training, and electronics courses. The author has given an immense gift by recounting his life story, which will undoubtedly continue to inspire generations.

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