Fortitude: American Resilience in the Era of Outrage

I read the one-star reviews after listening to the audio of Fortitude because I couldn't imagine what negative comments this book could spark. If you are looking for an inspirational book, do not let these one-star reviewers deny you this read. I daresay none of them actually read the book, and their reviews are based on Crenshaw's political party affiliation, not his book. As an Independent, I am a skeptic of all politicians. Well, I am a skeptic of people in general. However, Crenshaw provides a well-balanced perspective that blends his experiences as a soldier and politician with a well-rounded knowledge of literature, world events, and academia. As a retired high school teacher and administrator, it was refreshing to experience writing that stretched my knowledge base and made me think. As an American, it provided a framework for becoming a better citizen. Fortitude is not political propaganda. Crenshaw is not trying to convince you to "go red." In fact, he says quite the opposite. He encourages you to think for yourself and not be swayed by social media and public opinion. He encourages taking deep dives to gain all the information before making decisions--political or not. He encourages having the fortitude to give others the benefit of the doubt and not being quick to anger but balancing it with the courage to stand up for what you believe. He encourages practicing healthy emotional coping mechanisms to allow yourself to be happier and more resilient. He encourages you to not allow others to dictate your emotions. So, if you are interested in closing out the noise of anger, resentment, and uninformed banter, Crenshaw provides a step-by-step process for obtaining the fortitude to do so by strengthening your mind, emotions, and confidence. I appreciate Crenshaw's transparency in that he says these are the goals that we aspire to, but he often fails and that's ok as long as we reflect on why we failed and determine to be better tomorrow. Crenshaw offers time-honored and proven guidelines for strengthening your fortitude that we desperately need to hear again because we have forgotten their value in creating a society that cares for and respects one another.

This book was exceptional! In a time when its easy to realize our country is in trouble but extremely hard to put the turmoil into perspective Dan did a nearly perfect job of identifying the major issues and offering solutions. Whatever side of the political spectrum you lean towards you should appreciate a MODERATE voice in politics.

This was a very good book. The author highlighted the importance of having goals and mentors to keep you motivated and on track. The ability to adapt and overcome hardships seems to be difficult for so many of us and having a support system in place will keep you going. I highly recommend this book to everyone.