I love reading. Truly, I do. Reading has the ability to transport you into another world. Reading offers you the opportunity to gain tons of knowledge, wisdom, and understanding without leaving where you are. Buying books is like investing in your own personal growth, even when the books aren't about personal growth. For me, everything I read has some sort of benefit to me.
This book I'm currently reading by friend and fellow author Anthony Holdampf is not at all what I expected. When I first met Anthony and his daughter, the subject of much of this book, at the LIC Arts Open Open reception last year, I had no idea who I was communicating with. I'm thankful that Anthony and his daughter, whose art was part of an exhibit in a studio across from mine, came into my studio to check my work on that Friday evening. It was divine. After looking at the paintings by my brother Uncutt, photos from the Hunger Strike, watching the short documentary about the Hunger Strike, and listening to me talk, Anthony struck up a conversation. He eventually said he'd like to interview me for his next book. I agreed. We exchanged contact info and got in touch.
After a few short weeks of some back and forth conversation through email and text, we decided to meet up in his neighborhood. I had no idea the day we met that I'd also meet the CEO of LOOK Cinemas, which would lead to an incredible experience. Anyway, at that meeting is where Anthony gifted me a copy of this book, as well as 2 of his other books. He autographed them as well. At that time, I had no idea I was talking to a man that had the experiences he's mentioning in this book. But, as life would have it, we all connect at the right times and for the right reasons. I believe Anthony and I have a lot of work to do together as we have both experienced seemingly insurmountable pain, heartache, and trauma. But we're still standing. We're not only standing, but we're sharing our journeys with others in hopes of helping them navigate some of their own stuff better.
If you are a parent, or just an adult, with challenges related to parenting or any intimate relationships, including those from your own childhood, then I'd encourage you to get in touch with Anthony and purchase this book. You can visit his website here https://www.anthonyholdampf.com/ . He also offers a diverse range of services that can truly assist you on your healing journey. Check him out.
Thanks again for the book, Anthony! And thank you for your transparency and vulnerability. Man to man, it's greatly appreciated. This is how we heal! I appreciate you.
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