When James Finster’s Father took his own life in 2009, he
struggled with the continued belief of all his Father had taught him. Having
come to the realization that the way a loved one dies does not define their
life, Finster has released his memoirs in the hope that his experiences can
help others.
The Reverent Surrender: A Memoir,
published by Outskirts Press, is available now from Amazon.com.
Information
can also be found on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/TheReverentSurrender
For Immediate Release
Flagstaff, AZ – Like
millions of Sons, James Finster adored his Father. Responsible for shaping his
character and filling him with wisdom and teachings, his unexpected suicide in
2009 left Finster wondering if all he learned still stood as true. Following
the realization that his Father’s death doesn’t define either of their lives,
Finister is announcing the release of his memoirs for the benefit of others.
The Reverent Surrender
is that story. Funded through a hugely successful crowd funding campaign, the
book is poised to shine a light of hope on those left confused and alone by the
loss of a loved one.
Official
synopsis:
The
Reverent Surrender is an insightful memoir that tells the story of a father's
dynamic and beautiful relationship with his son cut short when he took his own
life. How does one retain the life lessons past on without becoming resentful
of their father's decision? As an only son, James Finster, retells the memories
of the life and times he experienced with his father and looks for the messages
and teachings within them while finding the strength to carry on as a man and
father himself.
From
learning to drive at the age of eight to avoid certain death, to facing and
conquering his own demons in the days following his father taking his own life,
James Finster spreads thoughtful insight into the complex relationship that is
the father and son dynamic. Through these memories Finster finds the strength
to move forward and forgive life's ultimate sin, and honor his father while
keeping his teachings close to the heart and applying them in his own life.
The
Reverent Surrender reinforces the idea that a life is not lost with death, that
it is truly the teachings and memories that keep the spirit alive within the
hearts of those touched in their lifetime.
As the author explains, the book reaches far
beyond the theme of suicide, with the potential to help anyone who is
desperately in need.
“I really do feel this book cannot be stigmatized
with the brand SUICIDE, it will appeal to anyone who reads it. It has the
message of hope shown through the despair I felt when this occurred,” Finster
explains.
He continues, “It is not a self-help book, but an
examination of my life though my father's teachings and the realization that
his giving up was not him giving up on me. I struggled with the belief that his
teachings were negated by his suicide, but in deep contemplation and reflection
I realized that a way someone leaves this world does not define their life, nor
mine.”
Since its release on August 8th, the
book has garnered a string of five-star reviews.
“An inside look at a boy’s relationship with his
late father as he tells of their many adventures. It will make you laugh and
cry. Recommended to anyone who has ever lost someone and not just to suicide.
It will remind you to remember the memories, cherish the times you had with
them and let go of the what if's,” says M. Templeton, reviewing the book on
Amazon.com.
Another reader, Samantha, was equally as
impressed.
“What I took away from this read is that life's
endings are overrated and that the real substance of life lies in the journey
of your experiences. Definitely a strawberry for me...I recommend it for anyone
who has laughed, loved, or looking for an inspirational read,” she says.
While experiencing roaring success to date,
Finster refuses to lose sight of what is important.
“Suicide and loss leaves its survivors with a
bitter taste and infinite sadness. Moving on in the right way is vitally
important. I want people to see that the life their loved one led is what
defines them – not how it ended,” he concludes.
The Reverent Surrender: A Memoir,
published by Outskirts Press, is available now from Amazon.com.
Information
can also be found on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/TheReverentSurrender
About
the Author:
James Finster studied Literature at California State University San
Marcos. He resides in Flagstaff, AZ with his wife Jerusha and two daughters
Vivian and Reagan
Contact: James Finster / 760-715-0149 /
jfinster82@yahoo.com