Linda Ross Swanson has recorded letters from former homeless addicts and some of their advocates in Wisdom Under the Bridge: The Prophets from Skid Row (ISBN 1463530595). She believes the stories in these letters will appeal to individuals from all backgrounds because we all have our own story, whether we are rich, poor, homeless or homeowners. Swanson includes the details of her own spiritual journey. She is a 25-year recovering alcoholic herself. Two of her brothers were also alcoholics who lived on and off the streets for years. The men and women featured in her book describe what life was like before finding the road to recovery. They recall the frightening experiences and the grungy living conditions. Despite the hardships they faced, they found the strength and motivation to turn their lives around. Their letters tell how advocates for the homeless worked hard to arrange employment and housing for them. Eventually, all of them became contributing members in a society, which once looked down upon them. Swanson adapts the Jewish tradition of the ethical will to reflect her concept of a Wisdom Will(R). (See link below). Each person's letter is meant to pass along life lessons and wisdom to future generations, as well as to ease loved ones' grief when they die. The individuals in Swanson's book share wisdom with readers, many of whom they will never meet. According to Swanson, "After finding sobriety, meaning and purpose, these individuals are helping others get their lives back. They offer profound insight and advice by example." Sometimes, what a person needs to stay alive is a good story. With over 3 million people living on the streets in the United States, perhaps the solution to homelessness awaits among the very individuals who survived this condition. Linda Ross Swanson wants readers of Wisdom under the Bridge to applaud the persons featured in this book. Their courage in overcoming adversity, as well as their vulnerability, has prepared them to share their experiences for the benefit of others. Swanson believes everyone has a sacred duty to protect their wisdom from going to the grave. Passing along life stories with loved ones and the community through The Wisdom Will(R) or legacy letter is one simple method for achieving this. As Swanson maintains, each person is a story waiting to be told. "Wisdom Under the Bridge: The Prophets from Skid Row" is available for sale online at: www.createspace.com/3611937/ Amazon.com and other channels. For Wisdom Will workshops, booksignings, or talks please contact Linda through her websites: www.wisdomunderthebridge.com/ www.wisdomwill.net/
