The Best is Yet to Be, by James E. Stowers with Jack Jonathan, tells the tale of a man who used determination and perseverance to achieve great success in life. When he found himself going down the wrong path, he simply made a U-turn and kept going.
As a young boy, Stowers was influenced by his father's medical practice. He saw a man who helped others to feel better. He got to witness the interaction between doctor and patients while seeing humanity in all its forms. The science of giving people back their health fascinated Stowers, and would later be a factor in his future profession.
Stowers's mother, on the other hand, came from a family of investors. They knew the best way to let people make money. While stocks and bonds were a reasonable option, it wasn't unusual for family members to make an investment in a new venture.
When it came to education, an opportunity existed at Kemper Military Academy. Not only was Stowers learning the regulated lifestyle, he also got the chance to interact with others. He had to deal with those who did not grow up in the same manner he did, or did not share his values. Perhaps this lesson was the most valuable of all, for it applied to just about any situation life had to offer.
After reading this book, I had no trouble picking out the main idea. Stowers makes a point of reminding people that one closed door means a window is open somewhere. For example, Stowers was accepted into medical school. Grades were not an issue, but professors were another matter altogether. One decided to flunk Stowers after he stood up for himself, even if it meant a philosophical difference. He almost didn't graduate. However, he took a year over again and finally got his degree.
If nothing else, this books works well as something to leave on the coffee table. The heft alone is enough to let one know it should be read over several days rather than all at once.
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