Nov
29
Messenger
Nov 2011
Book Review
By Jeni Stepanek
Review by Margaret Hunt
We all need a messenger to show us the way when we get side-tracked.
Sometimes it is a child. This book is about a very special child.
You may have heard of him, especially those who were fans of the Oprah show. Oprah called him 'a messenger for our times'. She had him on her show many times. He came in his wheelchair, just a child, suffering with a rare form of muscular dystrophy. His two sisters, and a brother had died from this disease, and his mother now has the adult form, diagnosed after all her children had been born. What was his name? Mattie Stepanek. With a message of hope, and faith and love. A little Catholic boy with a huge smile, and an even bigger heart in such a tiny body. Near death experiences often came knocking at his door, and the last knock was at the age of 14.
Mattie wrote poetry, starting at the age of 3, to help him overcome the loss of his older brother. He wrote many little books; his Heartsongs series as well. He became a peace advocate and motivational speaker; even lobbying on Capital Hill on behalf of peace, and for those suffering with disabilities.
Now this mother shares her story about her son. A very inspiring book for anyone looking for hope and faith, and patience, and perseverance.
And a more balanced perspective on life here, and the hope of eternity.
"And a little child shall lead them..."