Book Review – Aspire!
I have recently been introduced to the book Aspire! Discovering Your Purpose Through the Power of Words by Kevin Hall. 
I love to be surprised and this book surprised me in many ways. There is so much in the personal development community that has become tired and re-hashed, but I found this book to be a breath of fresh air. I was originally very skeptical with the premise that understanding the origin of words could make any real difference in ones life, let alone help someone discover their purpose in life. In the past when I've heard people pontificate about the origin of a particular word it has sounded like an academic exercise only of interest to those who enjoy reading dictionaries in their spare time.
Little did I realize that pulling apart the origin of words does in fact lead to deeper meaning and causes real reflection. Thinking about a new word from another culture has caused me to examine common, tired ideas in a fresh light. Re-examining a familiar word in a new way, and thinking deeply about what it means has led me to think in a fresh way. Kevin is a masterful storyteller who is able to pull out great examples of how these words apply in common, everyday life. The book is fun and captivating and not at all some kind of dry, academic tome.
It's hard to find a favorite word from the book, but the one I have found myself reflecting on the most is Genshai which means to never treat another person in a way that would make them feel small. The examples Kevin uses are inspiring, moving, and thought-provoking.
In addition Kevin begins to describe in this book some powerful strategies for journaling and learning more deeply from everyday experience.
The book is both illuminating and inspiring and at least in the Top 5 of all the books I've read in the past 10 years. It's a truly amazing book. Aspire! is currently only available on the Power of Words web-site: http://www.powerofwords.net. Do yourself a favor and be one of the first people on the planet to read this book.
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