Living Life and the Struggle for Virtue

Book excerpt: A once famous philosopher named Montaigne warned that using oneself as the subject to write about is only pardonable when the person is famous and exceptional, and I am certainly not. However, I was motivated to write this book to relieve my conscience by sharing some of my most private thoughts about some of life’s most important topics with my family and friends since I failed to communicate with them adequately in person on these matters. It has always been easier for me to express such intimate thoughts in writing. Since I am now in my last stage of living life, I thought it was time to share my thoughts on what I believe is most important in living life and that is Religion, Philosophy (how to live life well), and Politics. I don’t believe that politics is that important to living a good life, but it has become such a divisive force in our world that I decided it was worth discussing. There are many writers and speakers concerning these topics that I have observed and contemplated over my many years. But my book relies heavily on the teachings of Jesus regarding my religious beliefs and the philosopher Montaigne in my discussion on living life well (or better). In the POLITICS section of the book, I highlight my thoughts and beliefs about the priorities, values, and perspective a Christian should consider when engaging in the political process. The essence of my book is to highlight my belief about what is the PURPOSE of our existence. I think most people are seeking the answer to this question--- For me, it is the struggle for Virtue.