Renaissance poet John Donne penned the poem that includes the words “…No man is an island, entire of itself….” Whatever I am or ever shall be is due in large part to the many individuals who have touched my life no mater how briefly or seemingly insignificantly. It is to these multifarious individuals who have shaped my life and ministry and to whom I am grateful that I dedicate this book. I want to make special mention of the following that made an ineradicable contribution to my life.
Walter and Elizabeth Qualls, my parents, whom I often heard “thinking out loud” and who instilled in me the desire to read and learn.
Heather Marie Qualls Niepoetter and Joshua Wayne Qualls: my daughter and son, my life, who have given me great joy and happiness and for whom I have an indescribable love.
Robert J. Hastings: www.robertjhastings.comEssayist, author, storyteller and editor who encouraged me to write.
Four gospel singers taught me many things including excellence, quality and professionalism. They were all friends and mentors who encouraged and inspired me and lifted me up when I was down and kept me going when I felt like quitting and played an important part in my ministry.
Charles Clement: Who taught me that those who don’t aspire expire.