A Novel Life

Overview

Every disaster is an opportunity!

Three shots from an AK-47 pierced the air from a distant cluster of palms just north of our compound wall. I turned to exchange glances with the half dozen other members of the departing diplomatic staff as the last of three hundred US Marines in jungle fatigues and full combat gear dashed down the ramp at the rear of the aircraft. Despite the nearby roar of the rotating helicopter blades, I could hear the American Ambassador for the Liberian Mission addressing us.

"Some of you have heard," he began, with a dour expression, "of this Prince Johnson fellow's threat to shoot our helicopters out of the sky. Well, you needn't worry. We have the situation covered. I am informed that anyone firing upon any of our aircraft will be instantly dealt with in the severest fashion possible. No West African rebel leader will be interfering with the safe evacuation of our personnel on my watch. May God go with you all; good bye... and good luck."

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be a cop, a Merchant Marine or a spy rubbing shoulders with ambassadors, mercenaries and gold and diamond smugglers in South America, Asia and Africa surrounded by revolution and political intrigue? This is a journey of revelation that packs three lifetimes into one, overflowing with unexpected events and adventures. The author shares his journey beginning with his birth so you can discover for yourself what it takes to form a man into the kind of person who moves through life on a path that carries him all over the globe in search of personal destiny. It will astound you as it challenges you to explore and expand your own boundaries and perspectives of life, spirituality, family, love and relationships. How do we recognize and capture opportunities and how do we live with the consequences of our choices? The author finds his answer in the midst of chaos and struggle and he shares his thoughts on personal and spiritual growth as he tells his story.

"Michael has lived well to make such dramatic changes and to be able to hold such opposing forces within. That is how music is made.from the tension in the string that holds two opposing ends together."

- Scott Burr: Innovative Thinking Consultant

"Although Mike and I come from different continents, Mike being American (a Yank) and I being English (a Brit), I had the pleasure of meeting and working with him in Africa and we have been friends ever since. He is indeed a remarkable man and I can think of no one I would rather have by my side, either in a tight spot on unfriendly turf, or just having a beer and taking in the sunshine. Enjoy the stories. I certainly did!"

- Peter Coleman: International Consultant