Unlikely Ways Home : Real Life Spiritual Detours

Rating:
Summary: NOURISHMENT FOR THE JOURNEY
Review:
UNLIKELY WAYS HOME is an extraordinarily, inspiring look into the lives of people, like all of us, who have a story that, ultimately, will contribute to who we are, who we become, and how we relate to one another and our Creator. Fr. Edward has given us a glimpse into 12 stories that touch many different lives, and they will most likely resonate at some level for every reader of this book. I found myself relating personally to each story, as I, either, identified personally with some aspects or recalled people in my life who have been through similar experiences. It becomes obvious as one reads these stories, that somehow, through the maze of life, all of our experiences, good and bad, contribute to who we become, how we relate to one another, and ultimately, how we can find our way ?home? to our God. It, also, becomes obvious in these stories, that we will all have our own spiritual detours, unique to us, and no matter what, we can, in the way that we respond to them, deepen our relationships with others and our God or not, the choice is ours. It is inspiring to see that, even in the most unlikely of ways, one can find God and truly find one?s way home to Him. Having read Fr. Edward?s first book, GOD UNDERNEATH, I knew this was a book I, also, would need to read. Fr. Edward does not disappoint. Like his first, I found myself unable to put this book down. I think his ability to see and relate the spirituality of everyday life is both heartwarming and comforting for those of us who find ourselves on journeys that may also feel like ?unlikely ways home?. His refreshing way of showing us that God loves us just as we are is not to be missed. This is a book that speaks to and feeds the soul, as we all try to make some sense of this journey we are on. He helps us see that we are all heading for the same destination, and there are many paths that will lead us there, even though they may feel unlikely at the time. Because he was interested enough to seek out and share these stories, we, the readers, may be able to see how God blesses us and leads us through our own journeys, in a way we might otherwise have missed, had he not allowed us to see what he sees. I, highly, recommend this book and his first book, as well.




Rating:
Summary: Unlikely Ways Home
Review: Father Edward L. Beck, a gifted, compassionate priest of the Passionist community reveals twelve fascinating true-life stories of remarkable individuals. These people through "unlikely" circumstances somehow find their way to God and develop deep spiritual connections. Each chapter brings the reader into a life's faithful journey to share the trials, tribulations and challenges that eventually lead to a profound relationship with God. Father Edward is a very talented writer. Regardless of your own personal circumstances, whether you consider yourself "religious" or not, this book is a must-read. You may be surprised how closely related your own life's experience is to some of the extraordinary people you will meet thorughout the chapters of Unlikely Ways Home. It's as entertaining as it is inspirational. Congratulations to Father Edward L. Beck on this awesome book!

Rating:
Summary: True stories of faith and hope....
Review: "Unlikely Ways Home" is a wonderful book filled with stories of faith and hope found in the lives of ordinary people. In these stories, Fr. Edward Beck describes the challenges they endured, each different in their own way, and the underlying grace that helped them to reconnect with themselves, with others and with God. It would be difficult not to feel empathy or some kind of connection with those whose stories are being told. Their thoughts and feelings will linger with you.
Fr. Edward has an incredible sense of insight and his style of writing is thoroughly interesting and engaging. The stories flow very well, helping the reader become drawn into each story. As you read, you begin to believe that if we perservere through the struggles in life - as these people have - and find strength in God with thought and prayer, we will be alright. This book is an excellent reminder that ultimately we are all the same - good or bad, we all have our own stories. Hopefully Fr. Edward will continue to write and enlighten us with his thoughts and honest approach, whatever the subject may be.



Rating:
Summary: ordinary people, extraordinary lives
Review: "Unlikely Ways Home "is what is missing in today's Reality T.V. For those who want to read about the things that "real" life is about this book is a must.I couldn't stop reading. Each story is so well developed. Edward Beck is a master storyteller who takes us inside the lives of his family, friends and acquaintances. I cried,laughed and prayed for and with these people. I felt that I knew them and their journey mattered to me. I travelled with them through their struggles and triumphs and rejoiced in their ability to see God in it all.
Edward Beck shows us the many faces of evil. From a pedophile priest, to an alcoholic parent, to a deadly disease, to a german Nazi and todays Islamic fundamentalists. He shows us the pain they cause and the scars they leave behind, but there is a way out. Forgiveness, which he states can be renewing and life- giving and faith in God. These stories resonate forgiveness, faith and acceptance and I saw how liberating that can be.
The people in the stories may have travelled different paths and taken some spiritual detours but when healing occurs through the grace of God they are all lead home





Rating:
Summary: Inspirational stories of everyday people
Review: Father Beck's newest book is an inspirational look into the lives of everyday people. Each story is filled with varied emotions - happiness, sadness, anger, and disillusionment. However, one thing is evident, regardless of the circumstances surrounding them and the struggles they face, the people in these stories survive. Their faith is a source of encouragement to the reader. The human element is heart warming, something we can embrace in today's frenetic world. I am sure that you will be able to find someone or something to identify with in at least one of these motivating stories. One message is clear - God is always with us.