To bolster my social posture, I moved toward the refreshment table. Maybe I'd be more comfortable meeting other people if I had a familiar cup of coffee in my hands. Perhaps I'd look more poised . . . or something.
A tall lanky fellow was standing by the table, pouring a cup of coffee. Pale yellow sweater. Gray, thinking hair. He turned toward me as I approached, handed me the coffee with his left hand and stuck out his right hand for a handshake. "Hi, I'm Og Mandino."
I was blown away! His name was as familiar to me as the best known politicians, though much more revered. A best-selling author, his name and reputation commanded immediate respect and honor. What an experience to be welcomed by Og Mandino himself as the first person I met in the association. We relived that experience many times over the years as we gathered together with our colleagues in the speaking business.
Confession: I'd never read Og Mandino's books. Just didn't get around to it, though I'd heard they were good. There were always other things to read, other things to do. I did cherish my friendship with this gentle man and miss him now that he has passed away.
Finally, I got a copy of a volume that contains three of his powerful books: "The Greatest Salesman in the World," "The Greatest Secret in the World," and "The Greatest Miracle in the World." I wasn't sure what I'd be reading, but I decided to plow through the pages so that I'd have had the experience of actually reading his words. I was riveted. Captivated. Amazed. Moved.
The stories Og wove and the way he used words to express himself mesmerizing. The stories are beautiful and inspiring. He reached deep inside me somehow and rekindled some of my thoughts and motivations that have been dormant. It's hard to explain. This book will cause you to think, no . . . ponder. And it will change the way you look at yourself and your fellow Man.
I love to read books and write thoughtful reviews to help others decide if they want to read particular titles. One one hand, I feel that perhaps I should apologize for giving you more of a personal testimonial than a traditional book review. On the other hand, this sharing is probably the best expression to encourage you to spend some time with Og.
This review refers to the 2001 hardcover printing.