Tyler Perry

This book for me is a re-read, and I am typically not a person who re-reads books...I am one who feels like there are too many books in the world to keep re-reading the same ones over and over again.... but, I read this book around the time it came out about 8 years ago...and I loved it even then. (Will I ever re-read another book? Maybe! Or was I a person who totally wrote off re-reading a book? No. It's just not something I would make a big habit of unless I felt I needed information out show more of that book and/or maybe I can't get to any other books at that time...or whatever other reason there may be in that moment in time)

But I digress...

But, for some reason, I decided to type in Tyler Perry on scribd and the book came up...in audio! With Madea reading! I Had To Listen!

Listening to this book, was even funnier than the first time...I laughed the first time..A lot I'm sure...but I laughed so hard while listening to Madea read this and go off track a couple times. There were a couple times a word or two were changed around, added to, etc..but that's okay...That made it that much better!

I had so much fun reading and listening to this book! I pulled so much out of it this go round, as Im sure I got good advice the first time I listened to it as well. But now that I'm older, a little wiser, I'm sure I can do more with it now than I did then.

But I have to say, if you're going to read and/or listen to this book...make sure you're in a place that you can laugh out loud and not care about the people around you..because you will be doing just that! Or, you know how to just hold back a little bit, like I had to when I was listening to it in public. I just smiled, hard, and when I finally opened my door, and she said something funny..I just let out the laughter! Loud! show less

Higher is Waiting

I Picked Up This Book Because: I like Tyler Perry. I am endlessly curious about the life journeys of others so why not read this.

Part memoir, part inspiration, part spiritual study guide. Tyler shares his story largely using the metaphor of a tree. He speaks of his roots, his branches and leaves. He speaks of his tough life growing, his close relationship with his mother and Aunt Mae. He seeks to tell these stories not solely for entertainment but so others can understand show more that you can not let your past direct your future. Life is a series of moments to grow and he offers tools in the form of bible verse to help facilitate that growth.
I listened to this in audiobook form but I think I would suggest it in paper form. There are several passages that are given that I would want to reflect on, study, do and then come back a reread the passage.
Overall I found the book interesting however I did find my thoughts drifting every now and again.

The Random Thoughts:

3.75 Stars show less

From the hilarious creation of Madea, Perry delivers an inspiring memoir and words of encouragement in HIGHER IS WAITING —with a combination of his own unique blend of spiritual hope and southern humor over a ten-year period of his personal journals. Top Memoir of 2017.

From the multi-talented author, writer, actor, director, comedian, producer, filmmaker, playwright, songwriter, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, Tyler Perry is the mastermind behind nineteen theatrically released show more feature films, twenty stage plays, nine television shows, and a #1 New York Times bestselling book.

The author once again demonstrates how tragedy turns into triumph, both in the hearts and minds of individuals and sets sparks of change within communities.

There is an entire world out there waiting for those who "want it." Cherish your dreams and keep them safe. From hard work, positive energy, and self-encouragement. Prov. 19:21.

We are worthy, despite our histories. God gave us breath and life. Jeremiah 29:11.

Who doesn’t love Tyler Perry? Being an Atlanta gal, I am a huge fan and have seen all his movies, a few of his plays, and read his books. (loved the references to Atlanta’s Silver Comet Trail which was my inspiration and logged in many hours on my bike for years). It brings solace.

In addition to his witty warm-hearted stories, he is a powerful spiritual leader. The essence of power, faith, and the grace of God and how it has worked in his own life.

In HIGHER IS WAITING, the author tells his own story. His own struggles with money, abuse, his career, and his unwavering love for his mother. His dreams. He never gave up on his dream and encourages others to do the same, no matter where they are in their journey or the climb.

Higher is divided into four sections that revolve around the metaphor of a tree.

The Tree of Life. Taking a tree, he compares to the various stages of spiritual growth from his early childhood years to the present.

• Planting the Seeds
• Nourish the Roots
• Branching Out
• Harvesting the Fruit

It is the author’s hope, readers will spark God within and ignite a flame to go higher. From those who are struggling or are angry. Those who need forgiveness. A desire for a better life. For all humanity.

From his own mom’s time growing up in the Jim Crow South when black people were not allowed to dream big. Tyler had big dreams. It meant reaching higher and taking chances.

On a personal note: When I served on the board of directors for YES! Atlanta, this was an important topic and message we stressed to this group of at-risk teens. "To dream big." To see beyond their current surroundings which may appear dismal, and unattainable.

God’s words can be of service. From your own thoughts, finances, love, career, or family; that love and compassion will be waiting in every single part of your life and step of your journey.

“Sometimes in life, dreams are hard to follow. Just like that climb, you’re not aware of how high you’re going or if you’re even moving. But every step, even when you can’t see what’s behind you for what’s in front of you, brings you closer to your goal. . . "

Faith.

Easy to read, well laid out, this powerful book could be utilized as a daily devotional. From tidbits of real life from Tyler, wise lessons, and a special call out section with questions, thoughts, and meditations, with related scripture.

“Look how far you’ve come. God has brought you here. You won’t be abandoned. Stay in the climb.”

Perry vividly and movingly describes his growing awareness of God's presence in his life, how he learned to tune in to His voice— to persevere through hard times, and to choose faith over fear.

I particularly enjoyed his personal stories and how he connects with nature. Especially, Chapter 6. Relating trees to people.

Leaf People: people in your life for only a season. You can’t depend on them. They have their own weaknesses and are only able to offer shade. Like the leaves, they blow away.

Branch People: They are stronger than Leaf People. However, they need care. They are often fragile and unreliable. If a storm rolls in, they may break. Their strength has to be tested.

Root People. Someone very special. They do their work underground. Quietly without fanfare. They provide help, support, and nourishment. They are happy when we thrive. They are strong, resilient, and powerful. Be sure and water them with love, appreciation, and gratitude. Treasure these folks.

The leaf, branch, and root people in our own lives.

Perry reiterates his soul-filled experiences have taught him to embrace disappointments, knowing deeper lessons will be revealed.

They have shown him time and time again God’s hand in closing some doors and opening others. Helping him to release the past and create a future of hope. The tools for forgiveness and placed him back on his path, when he lost his way.

I also enjoyed Chapter 13. Discovering the Gift. We all ponder our higher purpose. Our hidden gifts. We must look for them.

HIGHER IS WAITING is a beautifully written spiritual guidebook (thought-provoking and soul-searching) one to treasure. Highly recommend and an ideal choice for the gift giving and the holiday season as well as book clubs or small groups.

This is not a one time read. HIGHER IS WAITING is a memorable book you want to use, bookmark, and reference daily, to enrich your life. A reminder of how far we have come, and heights yet to attain. Buy two copies. Give one away to someone who needs "hope and faith," this Christmas season.

A special thank you to Random House for an advance reading copy and also purchased a hardcover copy for my personal library.

JDCMustReadBooks show less

Inspiring, truthful and thought provoking. I love the madea movies and i even loved a fall from grace and now i have a greater respect for who he is and where he came from.