Ronald Hardy (1919–1991)

Praise for Ronald Hardy's ability to create fascinating characters and an incredible story to bring this history to life.

The late 1960s and early 1970s were turbulent times for Portuguese-controlled Mozambique in Southern Africa. Luke Magellan is heir to Companhia Montanaro, a sprawling company producing wine and harvesting cashews in the region. The story centers around Luke's vow to avenge Marie-Amelia Rodrigues, an orphaned girl assaulted during a clash between the Portuguese Army and the Frelimo—African Revolutionists. The author follows Luke's fall from his wealthy, privileged life to a half-starved, tormented prisoner in Machava, being questioned by the PIDI (Portuguese Secret Police) due to his quest.

During the country's struggle for independence, Dr. Harry Lynd, a medical specialist in tropical diseases, leads the search for the Black Fly—a carrier of Onchocerciasis—a condition that causes blindness. The bravery of these dedicated doctors and researchers who live in jungles and work tirelessly to stop crippling diseases from overtaking humanity is skillfully depicted in contrast to the fascists and their armies, insistent on keeping the natives under their control by any means. This book clearly defines the arrogance of men who think they can control anything in this world. I found this book interesting and informative.… (mehr)

In my journey in trying to be a good Christian woman, and even before that, from my life experiences, I’ve come to learn in regards to the death of someone we’ve loved, there is nothing that will ever prepare us for it.

When a death occurs, we’re overcome with grief causing us to fall into an abyss of sadness and remorse, from which we desire to be extricated from. While there are Scriptures that deal with the overcoming of grief, we require more than words. Some of the Scriptures that deal with this overcoming of grief include:

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” [MATTHEW 5:4]
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. [PSALM 147:3]
“The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. [PSALM 34:18]

While these verses serve their purpose, we require some direction in our journey of the abyss we’re in. This is where author Ronald Hardy, a bishop and the pastor of Faith, Hope, and Love Worship Centers of Baton Rouge and St. Francisville, Louisiana, comes in and offers readers a brief, concise offering in this book, and gives its readers a simple, direct 4-step guidebook through their journey of grief. For the author’s desire in wanting to comfort those suffering from grief, I’ve given the author 5 STARS for his endeavor here.

The most comforting Scripture I’ve found is the one that got said at the funeral for my mother, ECCLESIASTES 3:1-8.… (mehr)