In order to conquer the challenges of daily life, every individual must develop the life skills that will enable him or her to thrive. We might assume that these skills are innate, but life experience teaches us that even intelligence and emotional sensitivity are not enough to avoid hurting those around us. Dr. Awsam handles the discussion of life skills simply and practically. Tools such as self control, healthy boundaries, assertiveness, and making choices that keep you sane and healthy, as well as communication and relationship skills are the building blocks of successful living. He also introduces coping skills, such as dealing with stress and embarrassment and not compromising under pressure. Finally the discussion is completed by covering the planning skills that move us forward, such as goal-setting, decision-making and prioritizing.

Sadness is a normal part of our lives with its ebbs and flows. We may find ourselves experiencing deep sadness in difficult circumstances, or grieving for a period of time, but when the season passes, peace and happiness return. Depression, however, goes beyond just ‘having the blues’ and can become a crippling disease that shuts down a person’s life. It rears its ugly head too often–depression is the primary causes of disability in the developed world, and (after heart disease) the second most common cause in the developing world. Depression has multiple roots, a variety of symptoms and an array of treatments. Our makeup as beings who are soul, spirit and body means that any treatment must also be holistic, ultimately looking to our Creator for the final solution.

Who am I? Where am I going? Not many people can answer these questions ! When we grow up in a family and a community that has an understanding of the innate value of being human and the knowledge that we are loved, we will have a foundation to grow on the rest of our lives. Without these foundation stones, we will spend our lives looking for dignity, love and value in the ways that may be dysfunctional or hurt us .God has given us the gift of free will. As we choose to renew our minds, we can leave behind even entrenched lies that limit us. As a result, we can manage our emotions and control our behavior, and begin to grow in areas as practical as money management, relationships and time management. As the reader understands and masters the steps to self-development you will be able to put together your own plan for growth.

Dr. Awsam’s insightful exploration of anger teaches us to convert it into a positive force for good instead of letting it rage as a wildfire that can destroy our lives.

Do we live to eat or eat to live? Food, just like sex, goes beyond a mere physical act, but impacts us emotionally, psychologically and spiritually. Dr. Awsam explores the complexity of this subject, revealing our hunger to be loved and the intensity of our desires to be in control.

Sex is a beautiful gift, which can be degraded or twisted into the destructive energy of lust. As such it must be approached with care, but without fear or scorn in order to fully appreciation for its beauty.

If you were asked to write a letter introducing yourself, what would you say? Would you focus on your weaknesses and failings or would you want to make everything appear bright and shiny? Come explore how your self image affects your choices, your ability to succeed and your capacity to find contentment with who you are and with life.