A review - The Noticer

I recently read a new book that is being released today. It's called The Noticer by Andy Andrews and it's an interesting read. To begin with the subtitle from the cover intrigued me - "Sometimes, all a person needs is a little perspective." By being in the right place at the right time, the character Jones speaks wisdom into the lives he encounters by offering a change in perspective. And while the wisdom Jones shares is not very original, Andrews presents it in an easily readable and engaging manner.

I suppose it's not surprising that a book about perspective used two perspectives to tell its story. The Noticer is either the story of a man that changes lives (Jones) or a man whose life has been changed by Jones (Andy). It's never entirely clear which character is the "main" narrator. The change in point of view can be confusing as can the split attention to two different characters but overall this story still serves as a gentle prompt to take stock of our situation and the habits we may fall into that can jeopardize our relationships and our dreams. I have no doubt that some of the situations Andrews describes will hit very close to home with some readers.

Along with the book, Andrews wants to begin "The Noticer Project." His hope, he says, is that when each person takes the time to notice and to thank the people in their lives who have been instrumental on our journey. He says "By noticing those who have made a difference for you, you not only acknowledge their contribution, but I bet you will fain a new perspective on your own journey." His challenge is to "notice" 5 of the people that have had the greatest positive impact on your life and to let them know by thanking them.

Andrews' goal is certainly one worth noticing.


Review copy provided by Thomas Nelson Publishers.

When, Lord?...Oh, then.

I came across this adaptation of Matthew 25:41-43 today. It's one of those "Ouch" things.

I was hungry

And you formed a humanities club to discuss my hunger.

I was imprisoned

And you went to your chapel to pray for my release.

I was naked

And you debated the morality of my appearance.

I was sick

And you knelt and thanked God for your health.

I was homeless

And you delivered a sermon on the shelter of God's love.

I was lonely

And you left me alone to attend church.

You seem so close to God but I am still very hungry, lonely, and cold!

~ (Author unknown)

Is it a surprise that as we rush through our day, we might pass people that need our help? Even in this story, the people - both those that he commended and those he didn't - asked Jesus "When did we do this?" Do you suppose Jesus' answer brought to their minds specific faces? The beggar they passed every day on their way to the temple? The children in tattered clothes unprotected from the cold or rain? The smile that came as a prisoner ate the small meal they'd brought? Their answer affected their eternity.

I'm sure I've missed chances too, and I want to use this text as a reminder to do better when these opportunities are brought my way. I have to say, it doesn't sound like it will always be comfortable. But I also don't want to be standing before God saying "When was that?"

What about you?

Do you know Him?

A getting day

I was listening to a young man pray today and this phrase caught my attention:

"... and thank you that it has been such a getting day."

Hmm. My first reaction was that it was a rather self-centered sort of gratitude. I mean, it's not supposed to be all about what we get, right?

And then he continued. He was thankful that his dad was getting better, that he was getting an education, that we were getting to go to church, that someone was getting recognition for their work ... and I realized he was right.

It has been a getting day.