Sticks and Stones

Sticks and Stones
by
Ace Collins


MY THOUGHTS:
Do you ever think about the impact of the words you speak each day? How about the words you think? What do you say to yourself when you drop something and make a big mess? Are you nicer to a visitor who does the same thing?

This book addresses the impact of language on our lives and the lives of those we come in contact with. We can't control what others say to us, but we can control what we say to them and how often we repeat their words in our heads. By addressing topics such as self talk, saying thanks, paying attention, apologizing, and even talking when we don't know what to say, Ace Collins gives practical advice and specific actions we can take to improve the world one word at a time.

This is definitely a book worth reading -- and soon! You can purchase it at Amazon. Learn more about the author at his website.

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ABOUT THE BOOK:

With earthy wisdom, simple action points and his trademark gift for storytelling, bestselling author Ace Collins shows how—and why—to make the words used each day count. From a friendly hello, to a handwritten thank-you note, to a thoughtful phone call, words can have a positive impact in a negative world.Of the roughly thirty-thousand words spoken by most people every day, Collins challenges readers to imagine if just a handful of them could save a life or heal a broken heart or inspire a vision that would shape the course of history. He urges that today is an opportunity to speak—or write—words of incalculable potential for good.
With simple action points and colorful stories, this inspiring book will help weed out sticks-and-stones negativism and unleash the surpassing, life-giving, destiny-shaping power of positive words.
What does it take for words to make a difference?
Perhaps a simple thank-you letter or an encouraging email, a simple hello, a thoughtful phone call, a note written on the back of a family photograph — the possibilities are endless. Sticks and Stones shows the power and importance of words and how to use the right words to have a positive impact beyond anything you can imagine.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Ace Collins is the writer of more than sixty books, including several bestsellers: Stories behind the Best-Loved Songs of Christmas, Stories behind the Great Traditions of Christmas, The Cathedrals and Lassie: A Dog’s Life. Based in Texas, he continues to publish several new titles each year. He has appeared on scores of television shows, including CBS This Morning, NBC Nightly News, Good Morning America and Entertainment Tonight, along with appearances on CNN and MSNBC. Visit www.acecollins.com.

An Interview With Ace Collins:

Tell me a little bit about your background and your family.

I have being writing since grade school. I think my family’s Arkansas roots played into that. My grandparents were master storytellers and I loved listening as they painted pictures with their words. I came to Texas for college and majored in journalism and English. When I landed by first book contract, I was about thirty and quit my day job to write. The next fifteen years were tough financially, I did a lot of basketball officiating and substitute teaching, but I loved the challenge of creating new ideas. Still, I would not have made a go of it had it not been for my wife. She was supportive when everything else seemed like it was against my career choice. She never complained about making sacrifices for the dream. Ironically, even when we had almost nothing, our two sons thrived on the experiences. It must have made an impact as one has a communication degree from Baylor and the other is at Ouachita studying writing and film right now.

How did you get involved in writing?

I was writing short stories in third grade. I outlined and wrote part of a novel in high school. I was always writing poetry and songs ad still have hundreds of those in my files. I even put together a little newspaper for my small town and wrote a few issues when I was in sixth grade. I started a novel in college that just hit bookstores. So wanting to jot down my thoughts has always been like breathing to me.

What did you enjoy most about the writing process?

I love the creative end. I have a journal I take with me just to jot down things I think of that might work in books. Even my Bible is filled with notes on books I want to write.

What was the most difficult aspect of the writing process?

The actual writing. That is hard work. I enjoy it once I get into it, but it is difficult to get started. In fact, when you sign the contract and realize you have a deadline, there is still a feeling of panic. I still wonder if I can do it. I think that might be healthy too.

Where did you get the idea for the book?

Sticks and Stones is really my philosophy for living. It is something I have learned from people who have been placed in my life over the years. These ideas are what have sustained me through the lean times and make me happy now. Hence I thought what I had learned from others about the power of words might be something others would like to know.

What are the major themes of the book?

I once heard that folks use about 30,000 words a day in either written or oral form. It dawned on me that most of those words have either no impact or make a negative impact. In a world filled with people using words to cut others down, I opted to create a book that encouraged what I feel everyone should do — which is use our language to lift people up.

What do you hope readers will take away from your book?

I pray that they realize they do change the world with their words and actions. It all starts with how we talk to ourselves. So if they only read one chapter and learn one lesson, I hope they learn to see and then speak to themselves as if they are someone very important, because in my eyes and God’s eyes they are that and so much more.

What has God been teaching you lately?

Patience. The timing of all things is His not mine. Hence I have to wait on having dreams realized. I don’t mind telling you that when you are excited about ideas and want to see them in print now, it is hard to wait.

Where are you headed next?

Wherever the road leads. I’m having a blast right now. I have four books coming out this year, at least two more next year. I have a new novel series. After more than fifty books, I can’t believe how much fun I am having. It is just as much of a joy today as it was when I started. Oh, and I would like to find a 1932 Auburn convertible hidden away in a barn and bring it back to life.