Book Recommendation: The Anatomy of Peace

My latest read is The Anatomy of Peace: Resolving the Heart of Conflict  by The Arbinger Institute. The book, first published in 2006, uses a powerful narrative that provides you with the tools to combat conflicts at work, school, and in the home. Set at a teen rehabilitation center in Arizona, a group of parents dropping their children off engage in a moving discussion with the center's counselors. Through this discussion, the parents are challenged to re-evaluate their interactions with others, and to begin living in a way that promotes peace. One central idea in this book is transitioning from a heart at war to a heart at peace. It teaches how we often betray our human sense of compassion by treating others as objects instead of people. Further, it discusses how we seek to justify our self-betrayal by constructing boxes of better-than, need-to-be-seen as, and I-deserve complexes. The book uses several real-world examples to illustrate how both sides of a conflict can play a role in maintaining tension. A major lesson I learned from The Anatomy of Peace, is that we must evaluate areas where we need to improve before we can expect a change in others. By using a story, the concepts in this book are both relatable and easy to digest. By adopting the concepts in this book, I sincerely believe that we could begin to work through the many conflicts that exist in today's world. In general, we don't often consider how the opposing party of a conflict is affected by our actions. We tend to get so caught up in winning the conflict that we disregard the humanity of the other party. This book will help you take on a new perspective that both encourages you to consider the humanity in all people and to interact in a way that works in the best interest of all. I strongly recommend checking out The Anatomy of Peace. Feel free to order using the link below. Thanks for reading!

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-anatomy-of-peace-the-arbinger-institute/1107766563;jsessionid=F7DD404A59D1A6AEA9C62A43E9E123FE.prodny_store01-atgap13?ean=9781626564312

Wasted Talent Review!

On April 13th, Jim Jones released his seventh studio album, Wasted Talent. It comes seven years since the release of his last album, Capo, which was released in 2011. Wasted Talent consists of eighteen tracks, which include three listed as bonuses. The project features Jadakiss, Trav, Mozzy, YFN Lucci, Alexza, Eric Billinger, Ball Greezy, 5am, Yo Gotti, Axel Leon, Cam'ron, Lil Durk, and Juelz Santana. With this one, Jim Jones asserts a powerful return to the game. His lyrics reflect the contemplation and wisdom that comes from a period of hiatus. Throughout the project, he touches on lessons learned from his past, realities of fame and fortune, as well as his thoughts on current social issues. He vividly describes his days in the projects and how he made it out. In tracks like "Head Off", he talks about serving as an inspiration for others to know that they can make it out as well. I appreciate the way he is able to blend past experiences with current topics throughout the project. He can quickly transition from being on the block to driving a Ferrari. With his extensive career, it's interesting to hear his perspective on the current state of Hip-Hop. You can sense the personal growth in his music, while telling that he isn't too far removed from the New York streets that built him. This project shows you what happens when a veteran takes his time to produce a quality product. It's always refreshing to hear solid bars, and this project certainly gives you that. My favorite tracks are "Gotta Play the Game" and "Epitome". Thanks for reading!

Dex Meets Dexter Review!

On April 6th, Famous Dex released his debut album titled, Dex Meets Dexter. The album consists of fourteen tracks, with features from Drax Project, Wiz Khalifa, A$AP Rocky, and Diplo. Throughout the project, Dex offers his distinct rhythmic flow over a variety of dynamic beats. His lyrics seem to take a carefree approach and provide a rock star aesthetic. He showcases his range on this album, going from laid-back tracks like "PROVE IT" to more hype songs like "CHUMP". The project is filled with energy and makes for good music to turn up to. Famous Dex definitely represents the younger generation of rap. As seen throughout this project, his music is focused on living for the moment and enjoying the material wealth that comes with stacking money. Reading the track list, I was familiar with two songs, "JAPAN" and "PICK IT UP" featuring A$AP Rocky. It's a fun project to listen to and you'll find it hard not to dance along with its rich production. My favorite tracks on the album are "LIGHT" and "TAKE HER". Thanks for reading!