In his debut book, “Life Is So Precious,” retired Army veteran Alton E. Pete raises awareness on a number of topics people are facing today. Pete shares personal tips and advice on how to deal with family issues, adversities and more. His purpose for writing this book is to encourage individuals to get back on track and to believe in the values of life itself and the importance of life.
How has your faith given you the fortitude to face and overcome some of your greatest obstacles and challenges in life?
After losing my mother 23 years ago and my only sister 8 years ago along with a 26-year-career in the Army, my faith has had a major impact and has redirected my life in many ways that would have caused one to lose their sanctified mind. This is where I discovered faith is incredible to have, and without faith one can’t please God. But, faith is very uncomfortable yet essential, faith and courage works well together because one can have faith and if you don’t use the courage to move forward, you’ll never receive any of the promises predestined for your life. Having faith will allow one to see some miracles, while sending you a light through a dark, dark moment in a tunnel. So, whatever you do, hold on to your Faith and watch your prize unfold before your very eyes.
Describe your early upbringing and who instilled faith in your life through their examples.
Growing up in church and with the guidance of my father and mother, our home was filled with faith, love and peace. My mother was extremely strong in faith until it rubbed off on my brothers, my sister and I where even until this day, that belief in God, and within us, has never dissipated and I’m so thankful for that. My mother used to say, ‘No matter hard it gets and how bad it looks; we are going to make it.’ She said, mark her word. Today, my faith in God, within my heart is strong enough to lead the captive out of captivity.
What is the one thing that you hope readers walk away with after reading your book?
Treat people the same way one would want to be treated in return. Love heals, delivers and reveals who we really are in the heart.
What scriptures have you leaned on the most through out your journey?
Some of favorite scriptures that I love to read are: Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we could ask or think. For God has not given us the spirit of fear, but of power, love and a sound mind. A man’s gift and a woman’s gift too will make room for you, that gift will also bring you before great men. I lean on these scriptures everyday!
What key messages do you share in your book for someone who is on the brink of giving up?
For those who are experiencing some rough moments and can’t see yourself through the dark clouds and heavy fog, my advice is to believe you are a conqueror. You are worth fighting for, you deserve the best and nothing less. I know it’s not going to be easy and climbing those mountains are tough for a reason. Just in case you find yourself slipping and sliding on your mountain, you’ll also have something to hold on to, otherwise what good is a smooth easy mountain? Don’t throw in your towel, instead wave the towel in the air because Jesus Christ, He still cares about you and he won’t ever let you down.
Describe the current path you are on and how you are living out your faith to impact the lives of individuals you encounter.
[I have a] sincere caring concern for every woman and every man, the youth, the homeless, those that are in the prison systems and veterans around the world. We have, here in America, a Democracy for everyone to get a piece of the blueberry pie with some vanilla ice cream on top. Excuses are unacceptable and whatever your heart desires to achieve, you can receive it. Giving up and quitting is not an option. We can not afford to allow those dreams, those visions to not become our reality. Because America is so blessed by God, everyone should be homeowners, we haven’t run out of land. God has plenty of new blessings to pass out to everybody. I am a true leader and I lead from the front because, I care.
Where can readers purchase your book?
“Life is so Precious” is in all book stores, Amazon, Barnes & Noble and e-book. Get your copy today!
What is next on the horizon?
I’m looking this year (2019) to get connected with Oprah Winfrey, Denzel Washington, Steve Harvey, Tyler Perry, Magic Johnson, Ice Cube, Morris Chestnut, Halle Berry, Dr. Phil to see if we could [transform] “Life is so Precious” into a film for the big screen. In order to get big things, you definitely have to think, breathe, dream and envision those big things. I’m also looking at doing some commercials and advertisements.
And, I have been working on a second book, “Winning with the right Attitude.” People need to know, when you find yourself losing some things in life, those losing experiences are only setting up and building a stage for you to stand on to start accepting your winnings…being positive is the only way to success.
For additional information on the release of “Live Is So Precious”, email altonpete@gmail.com.
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