Christopher Andersen (1) (1949–)

The deep love Dana and Chris had for each other came through in this book. After Chris's accident Dana did not look a Chris as a burden, but as her duty as his wife. they did have help, so Dana did not have do some of the caring for his daily needs, although she learned how to do it herself. Their roles reversed after Chris was paralyzed. He had done the lion's share of making the income, before his accident. After his accident, Dana had to work to help pay for Chris's care. They started a foundation hoping to get Chris walking again. After Chris's death Dana took over as head of the foundation, only to pass away 17 months after Chris.… (més)

Brothers and Wives
Brothers and Wives Lessons and Key Takeaways:

1. Race and immigration are very delicate topics. Remember that just because someone immigrates does not mean that they do not love their family back home. Race plays a huge part in how people perceive and treat others. Treat others with respect regardless of their race or social standing because no one is better than the other just because someone is a different skin tone. Everyone is equal. Everyone is valued. Everyone has a mission and a plan.
2. Do not tear down anyone in public. Especially in the media. Tearing someone down and not standing up for them when they are hurting shows that you are part of the problem and not the solution. Instead offer a helping hand and a private area to talk without people controlling you and your every move.
3. You are human. You are independent. It is okay to make mistakes. Apologize for them.
4. You are not better than anyone no matter what your title. In fact it shows that you have an ego problem and need to be brought down a few notches.
5. Always treat others with decorum and respect.
6. Do not pretend to like someone and then trash their family behind their backs. Especially if they are of a different race.
7. Always coexist in love and appreciation for the blessings and gifts that life gives you. Remember we only have one life to live so do something meaningful with it. Like work an actual paying job.
8. Stop and think about the consequences of your words and actions and how it might affect your family and your friends.
9. Think about what you want to do with your life on your own terms.
10. Pause and reflect on those that have gone on before and see where you can leave an impact on someone else in a positive way.
11. Reflect on whether you want to have a healthy relationship with your family or to cut them off and be free.
12. Speak of the goodness that being financially free and independent makes you and how you do not have to answer to the Queen. (I learned this from Harri).

Biggest Takeaway:
1. Stop. Think. Pause. Reflect. Speak.

Quote in Summary:
“There is perfection in imperfection through the eyes of seeing the goodness of the heart and mind and not with the eyes of man that sees what they want and dissimilates what they want. Always remember that it is okay to be perfectly imperfect and that it is acceptable to be who God made you flaws and all. No matter what the cost.”… (més)