Trust the Confession

Trust the Confession presents a compelling and insightful exploration of the root causes behind our society's profound challenges, accompanied by a candid discussion on potential solutions. The book persuasively argues that a fundamental contributor to our societal downfall lies in a prevailing lifestyle that neglects character development and seeks personal meaning and purpose through external measures, endorsing power and authority as sustainable paths to legitimacy. The consequences of this system manifest in pervasive issues such as racism, injustice, socioeconomic inequality, discrimination, gender disparity, mass gun violence, political division, and more.

Mr. Leonard presents a most interesting and compelling case to search within and develop our own character. Certainly Leonard's conclusive Chapter 9 is one of the best written and most persuasive chapters in the book. His use of the Indian proverb about which dog to feed and his quote of Luke Turpeinen on the importance of respect serves to uniquely reinforce Mr. Leonard's argument for personal responsibility and accountability in our society. Empath (should) rule!

With the ever-deepening divide we, as a global community, are experiencing regarding love, compassion, and acceptance, At First Glance is a thought-provoking look at societal contrasts between those of us who have been living in survival mode since birth and those of us who have benefited from having our innate self-worth nurtured. Mr. Leonard gives the reader much food for thought as he takes you on a journey to discover how we have come to a point in humanity of anger, prejudice, intolerance, and hate, and proposes common-sense remedies coupled with deep insights to help the inhabitants of this world heal and develop a kinder, inclusive, and loving world. I also completely enjoyed Mr. Leonard’s viewpoints on historical events that may have sparked the beginnings of humanity’s penchant for social self-destruction. This is a quick read that packs in tons of information and ideas to ponder. I recommend reading this book and passing it along to others.

I highly recommend this book for the conscientious reader. It explores the substantive relationships between integrity, character, and perceived achievement (internal and external). The book analyzes the internal motivation that drives us under varying circumstances - be it friendship, family, or community. If you are interested in pushing the envelope of self understanding this book is for you. A must read for your library.

-------------- Don't be fooled by the title. The true holy war, which this book illuminates, is the war within ourselves. Our intrinsic inclination toward kindness, respect, reciprocity and good will versus the internal products borne of emotional damage and ignorance - (that part which wants to lash out, usurp power, cast blame and denigrate). The author elucidates how the byproduct of nurturing others fosters our own well being and spiritual growth. This battle is not an easy one, and for some lost souls nearly impossible, but it is certainly worth the fight. Mr Leonard's book offers the kind of encouragement we so need in this day and age. We are often emotionally spent, simply worn out, by the disrespect and belligerence and ill-will of the unenlightened. The book administers the shot of rejuvenation needed to get up and carry on.

I read this book during a very difficult time in my life. I was trapped in an abusive relationship as well as a job that left me unheard and unfulfilled. Within the first 20 pages I felt the I had received the gift of knowledge and understanding of the importance of credibility and it's role in our society. Lorenzo Leonard's deeply intelligent voice gives a detailed perspective of the desire to feel relevant and valued in a world that can try to stifle us. This book gave me the clarity and strength to walk away from my relationship and seek a life where I am truly valued. It gave me the gift to detect when others are quieting my voice and the ability to walk away from those voices.