Life is not always easy. But no matter how hard it might seem, it is you and you alone that gets to make the decision of whether or not you will overcome it. That is the lesson that Josephine Jordan taught all of her children and now, through their memories, they impart her wisdom to you. Thought provoking, insightful, and full of wisdom, Joseph McCray's compilation of family memories is a reminder of a simpler time when life centered on family, and joy and laughter came from those we love. Beginning with heartfelt letters to both of his parents but more specifically his mother, McCray dives into the path of his mother's life from Durham, North Carolina, to Baltimore, Maryland and all the houses she lived in once up north. His siblings, a total of nine children, provide insight into the goings-on in the different homes, some growing up in one, some in another, and still others split between addresses. Through it all, however, there remained one constant: Josephine Jordan, a woman of uncommon courage, remarkable ingenuity, and a never-ending wellspring of love and belief who was determined to have a positive impact on everyone she came into contact with. Overcoming poverty, welfare, and alcoholism to raise a family of honorable children, she was the inspiration that drove them all, the guiding light that shined upon them morning, noon, and night. An extraordinarily intimate journey through the lifetime of a strong, proud woman as seen through the eyes of her children, McCray's ability to bring the past to life is nothing short of breathtaking. His mother's astounding ability to understand deeper truths in life and transcend seemingly insurmountable limitations is a timeless story of the strength of the human will and profound belief in the Holy Spirit. As uplifting as it is touching, Pushing On: Wonderful Stories About the Life of Josephine Jordan will change the way you view your life-and the power you have to change it.
About the Author: The youngest of nine siblings, I am a passionate, certified addiction registered nurse who speaks about drug addictions, mental illness, and HIV/AIDS in my hometown of Baltimore, Maryland. Having helped thousands of people fight against drug addictions, I credit the example set for me by my mother, Josephine Jordan, who herself overcame alcoholism. I thought the world should have a peek into her life as I continue to encourage and teach thousands each year the words my mother taught me: "You can make it...if you want to." This book is in honor of an inspiring and passionate mother who taught me to be the best at whatever I did in life.