Shackled by Adversity, Sustained by Grace

This book speaks to the daily realities of anyone –regardless of race, color, origin, culture,
belief, social strata, and gender- anyone who dares call him/herself “human”. The thoughtprovoking
question here is, what does one do when the nightfall lingers with no daybreak
in sight; when stubborn affl iction becomes his/her fl anking companion, day in and day
out? I truly believe in the redemptive and mystical power of suff ering. It is, in essence, that
inner agony, which has not only inspired this book, but also personifi ed the invisible and
excruciating pain, by giving it a face which can be seen and touched, a voice which can be
heard, and an emotion which can be felt. Exposure to trials of all kinds, which one endures
with steadfast courage, produces, at the end, resiliency and strong character. Walsh (2006)
stated “Resiliency can be defi ned as the capacity to rebound from adversity strengthened and
more resourceful. It is an active process of endurance, self-righting, and growth in response
to crisis and challenge”.

Resilient people demonstrate an uncommon ability to manage positively common life’s
daily transactions. They exhibit exemplary courage and determination when confronted with
traumatic events such as death, divorce, life-threatening illness, disaster, social injustice,
racism and discrimination, etc. One’s belief plays a crucial role in the manner, which he/she
approaches life’s stressful demands, daily responsibilities, and ongoing challenges.