FOREWORD
When relationships are mentioned many thoughts, feelings, images and emotions come to mind. Not to mention the multitude of questions. As a media person I can tell you I have conducted numerous interviews and held seminars about relationships. Many authors have written books on how to catch the "perfect" mate and have the "perfect" marriage. However, no one seems to have the "perfect" answer.
As the host of my weekly talk show, "Emilie & Friends", I have moderated several conversations about topics ranging from politics to education to empowerment to relationships to religion and to business. By far, the most popular topics with my listeners were those dealing with relationships between men and women. What makes this such an exciting topic? We seek psychics and also map our astrological charts in search of our soul mate. But are we any closer to an answer or a solution? Is it all part of a mystical spiritual journey? What is the purpose and why is love the one area no matter nationality, race, religion, creed or sexual preference we all long to have?
I met Joseph Dillard over 15 years ago when he was a bank manager in Chicago. He appreciated my loyal business, and I appreciated his personal service. When I walked into the bank that day I had my son with me. I was most impressed by the pictures Joseph had on his desk - family pictures, wife and children and it warmed my heart. In addition to a business relationship we began to talk about the importance of family. When he changed banks, I followed him yes, because of good service, but also because there was this spiritual aspect to him. He appeared genuine in helping his community in addition to being a family man. When Joseph and his family moved to Minnesota, we kept in touch. He would always tell me about his children's achievements (which are numerous) and his wife's many activities. As he spoke I could visualize the smile on his face and feel his pride. We are both spiritual beings so his words would always resonate with me as I continue on my journey. Every conversation ended with the uplifting phrase, "Keep smiling!"
This book allows you to peek into the lives of two friends who have several conversations about life and love. There is some pain and there is also some hope. I believe you will be able to relate to this story. You may smile and you may even cry. I think you will definitely be encouraged and inspired. Nobody guarantees that life will be easy. In fact, sometimes it can seem almost unbearable. One thing I do believe is that we draw people into our lives to teach us in areas where we are weak. Though relationships may come and go, each teaches us a life lesson no matter how happy or sad. And we are in others' lives for the same purpose. Life is a spiritual endeavor with choices and the best choice you can ever make is to realize and to know that tomorrow gives you another chance and God's mercy and manna is sufficient in every moment. Enjoy this book and share it with friends. You'll be glad you did. Have a rainbow day.
Emilie McKendall