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What would you think if a heroin addict gave you some really sound advice on life? Would you take it? (The advice that is - not the heroin.) Or, what if those “words of wisdom” came from a murderer? An astrologist? A politician? Someone you deeply dislike? A known liar? I have, and will probably always, take advice from such people. Just before Christmas, two friends e-mailed recommendations for the same book (thanks Kista and Ali!) Both said the same thing; A Million Little Pieces by James Frey reminded them of my book. In his autobiography, Frey tells, with gut-turning graphicness, of his time in drug rehab after sinking to unimaginable depths of addiction. So, I got the book. Before I had a chance to read the first chapter, news hits the airways that Frey’s “autobiography” is inaccurate. No, scratch that. It’s full of lies. In an article on thesmokinggun.com, investigative reporters take a look at Frey’s claimed criminal activities and point out his exaggerations, his embellishments and the downright fabrication of whole sections of the book. And, if you’ve read the article, you know there are a lot of ‘em. As a writer of non-fiction, and specifically autobiographical non-fiction, the fact Frey lied really, really hacks me off. Writers can take literary license in certain scenarios, but never, EVER are they allowed to manipulate the emotions of the reader by claiming falsehoods. That’s just not right. Now, wanna know something crazy? I absolutely adore this book! What?! How can I love something that is a load of horse puckey? Because there are points in this book that are just good, solid information with a positive spin. And if they’re lies? So what! That does not decrease the validity of a bit of good advice. In the opening paragraph, I told you I’ve received great guidance from smack heads, drunks, flaky astrologers, people I don’t like, known liars and the worst of all: politicians. How, you ask? Get a load of this… Lou Reed, lead singer of the Velvet Underground and recovering heroin addict: “The bad makes the good and there’s something to be learned in every human experience.” Ernest Hemingway, in addition to being one of the greatest American novelists, was also an alcoholic and still came up with this gem: “As you get older it is harder to have hero’s, but sort of necessary.” Here’s my horoscope for today: “Collect as many goodies as you can while you can. Then, get prepared for your next project.” Harry S. Truman once said: “It is amazing what you can accomplish if you do not care who gets the credit.” And finally, from A Million Little Pieces by James Frey: “Hold on. Just hold on.” Good advice is good advice, no matter where it comes from. Too often we deny positive and valid statements because we don’t like the person or the things they represent. Try overlooking the messenger and focus on the message - you might just learn something! Marcus Engel is a professional speaker/author who inspires audiences to achieve success by making intelligent choices. Blinded by a drunk driver at age 18, Marcus battled through two years of recovery and 300 hours of reconstructive facial surgery to reach his goal of returning to college. After graduating from Missouri State University in 2000, Marcus began sharing his story professionally to audiences nationwide. In 2002, Marcus founded his own publishing company with the release of his autobiography, “After This…An Inspirational Journey For All the Wrong Reasons.” His messages of empowerment and motivation have been witnessed by hundreds of thousands through his keynotes, his autobiography and his monthly newsletters. Marcus Engel is a speaker, a message, a story you will never forget!
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