You Be the Judge ~ Paperback ~ Ryland Holmes

You Be the Judge is a must read for all but especially young adults. Anyone that has been made to feel that they were less than or just not good enough should read this book. It shows what an individual can overcome with determination and the desire to succeed, and when failure, truly is not an option. We have not all been born with the perfect family or come from a childhood with happy and warm memories though I believe that is what we all desire. Some of us had to create those memories on our own because no one was there to do it for us. Most 13 year old boys beginning their teen years are discovering girls, exploring feelings of love and friendship. Me? My mom, or so I thought she was my mom, was discarding me like I was a shirt she no longer wanted. At 13, I found out I had been celebrating my birthday on the wrong date for the first 12 years of my life. At 13, I was taken to the home of a woman who I was told was my biological mother, where I was taunted and spat at for an entire night. The next day, at 13, I left that stranger's home and became a man very quickly. At 13, my life began. I've been homeless. I've been hungry. I've been knocked down a lot but always got right back up. I yearned for a real home most of my young life. I even entered WWII at the age of 16 in search of one. I've seen a lot in my lifetime, and a lot of it I would like to forget but I always acknowledge that every experience made me the man that I am. Throughout it all I always had hope. This is a story that will remind you with hope and perseverance there is redemption, transformation peace, happiness and true success. I ask you what is the meaning of success. After reading this book you will certainly know and understand how I define that word. Was I a success? You be the judge.