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Review by John Boogaert of A Passion for Stewardship, The Legacy of a Generation by Richard A. Johanson.
It has been said many times that a picture is worth a thousand words. However, there are times when words can draw a special kind of “picture” that draws us far beyond the visible to reveal a profound understanding of human feeling and form. Richard Johanson, in his new book entitled “A Passion for Stewardship, The Legacy of a Generation,” has captured a deep and truly inspiring image of what Tom Brokaw has tagged as “The Greatest Generation.”
On first glance, Mr. Johanson’s writing would appear to be an autobiography of what could easily be judged to be a very interesting life. On a more careful look it becomes clear that it was written to inspire the reader to make stewardship, in the broadest sense, a significant part of the lives of the present generation. This challenge is proffered not only to contribute to the common good but to bring meaning and strength to each individual life.
Moving far beyond a simple outline of dates and events, particularly satisfying is Mr. Johanson’s use of just the right stories that not only take the reader inside his head but force us to look well into our own. Mr. Johanson has painted a compelling image of how his early years, living through the great depression, contributed to his fundamental values. From his family discovering - - far too late - - his 7 year old brother’s hand extending from a sand pile in a construction zone near his childhood home, to his experience and feelings leaving a simple, idyllic life in a small town in Central California to walk into the chaos of World War II, to the joy of actually returning home welcomed by an ecstatic family dog and a grateful family, Mr. Johanson’s careful words paint vivid images.
The story of his early years moves seamlessly into the beginning of Johanson Transportation and how his core values established the foundation for making the company a special place for both its employees and customers to this day.
Mr. Johanson humbly chronicles his early life, richly endowed with gifts of love, grace and challenge, naturally morphing into the joy, satisfaction and occasional frustration of genuine stewardship. He carefully touches on the trappings that we often face when we become overextended and lose crucial time and touch with family and valued friends.
Mr. Johanson shares some of his favorite aphorisms. My favorite – “Few people are successful unless a lot of other people want them to be.”
Because he took the time to do it right, Mr. Johanson has taken an autobiography to the next level and given us a rich picture of what made so many people from “The Greatest Generation” so profoundly committed to the common good — an inspiring lesson for us all and a very enjoyable read.
John F. Boogaert
Author: “No Feet in Concrete” & “Sex, Politics, and Religion at the Office”
Rating:  [5 of 5 Stars!] |
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