The example of living as Christ lived is something that all Christians strive for, whether they feel it is achievable or simply something to aim for and get as close as possible to, even though they can never quite reach the goal. This book compiles a trilogy of essays by a retired priest drawing on his career from the pulpit and as someone working in the healthcare industry and striving to make ethical decisions about care and treatment. Not only that, but the author draws on his own experiences with addiction and recovery, inspired by the twelve-step program of Alcoholics Anonymous and weaving it into the lessons of what a person must do to make ethical decisions and live with integrity. The lessons of these writings will help one appreciate the person they see in the mirror more, while also maintaining or repairing relationships with those close to them.

The essays in this collection cover both the before and after of making decisions in the real world, guiding readers to carefully consider the circumstances and reach a result that is the most authentic and productive, while also allowing for contrition, confession, and forgiveness when they hurt others or when others harm them. Blending the real world of business and human relationships, the guiding principles of scripture, and the tenets of recovery programs that seek to heal and support a person to a point where they can properly atone, these writings make the goal of compassion feel not only attainable but possible in all people. Though no human can always be perfect, by the simple act of trying to be better, compassionate, and considerate, the results will reflect that effort and reflection.

The pieces found in this book are, by the author’s own description, written in such a way that they compound on the information found in the previous ones, yet can be read in whatever order the reader needs. The information is tailored to different positions in the decision-making process, including the consequences, and so it is not necessary to delve into topics that are not pertinent to the reader’s circumstances if they need more direct comfort and wisdom. However, taking these essays in sequence, the reader can see how the principles used in making decisions can help one understand how others come to conclusions. The inverse is also true: by forgiving and seeking forgiveness, readers can better consider what their choices will result in before making them.

While the perspective and inspiration discussed in this book have much to do with Christ and the teachings of Christianity, the author’s life and examples come from present-day life. Having one foot in the spiritual and one in the secular does not undermine or diminish the power of the lessons on display here, but rather gives them a wider appeal and makes them more digestible and easy to relate to. As the title indicates, the end goal is not perfection, but striving towards it. Nobody who has read this book will suddenly become perfect. However, the wisdom on offer will equip readers to do the best they can in any situation that may come up. Keeping things brief and well within the range of what is possible even in stressful times, this book provides helpful advice on an as-needed basis, or the teachings can easily be studied in advance of a need by individuals in any role within a community, parish, business, or family.

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