I wrote last week that the release of Kofi Douhadji’s audio book was running down the last lap, and it has now crossed the finish line. It is available with an Audible account from Audible.com at this link, or from Amazon here (audio and/or print). If you are interested in a bit more about the production process you can find that here.

As I reviewed in the past, this self-read book is Kofi’s story of growing up in Togo, West Africa and eventually landing in the United States with his family. As Kofi points out it’s not a “rags to riches” story, but rather an open presentation of taking what we’ve been given, what we don’t have, and learning to discern the choices and steps to make the most of it all.

As we produced his audio book I was struck multiple times about how often Kofi’s life (and therefore his story) was impacted by just one person, one word, one action at a critical time that caused a major trajectory shift. That turn or re-direct wasn’t even always known at the moment it occurred (or at least its significance), but in looking back he could see how each one became part of the map his life was drawing and connected him to his next path.

Another big lesson or reminder from hearing Kofi’s memoir is how many times the hardest, most seemingly insurmountable “barriers” in his life turned out to be his greatest change agents and motivation for knowing he could face what came next. I must say I highly doubt I would have persevered through his many and even life-threatening situations the story unfolds. He did, to which even the fact his story is being told gives testament.

And for us who had the opportunity of growing up in this blessed country we call the USA, I was soberly struck by how much I take for granted. Everyone privileged to call this place “home” is endowed with riches beyond measure – much of which we should not count in dollars and cents (which ultimately has the least value). To hear Kofi’s description of his first journey (alone) discovering America is quite heart-warming. I don’t think that discovery has ended for him or his family to this day.

Ultimately, Kofi invites us to remember we are all human beings on this journey called “life”. What we live as our story (and subsequently can also tell about) depends on the choices we make from the input, influences and opportunities we are all presented with. He calls each us to write our own story, and make it great!

Well it’s been a long haul since we posted “Unbroken Optimist” to the host platform for digital release. Between a backlog of submissions and then delays in getting all the specs ironed out (wouldn’t it be lovely to a have consistent standard that means the same everywhere?!), his audio memoir has passed two of the four final approval stages. It will be a great listen, and I’ll let you know when it’s finally official. Thanks for your patience.

Yesterday Kirby Wendt left Tesco Productions with CD copies of 100 Words, his latest release of original tunes. There’s a wide variety of styles and messages in these 14 songs. All of them have at their core his vocal and acoustic guitar. Several songs additionally feature Keith Wilson on acoustic and electric guitar, as well as bass. There’s four songs with Bill Rasmussen playing drums. Also, yours truly tickled the ivories for strings, electric piano and a small foray into Native American flute.

Kirby has written and played his songs for many years, and said he’s already written 3 or 4 more since completing this project. My first encounter with Kirby and his music was a referral to compile a collection of prior recordings, most of which had been produced by the very capable hands and ears of Chuck Beckler, who passed unexpectedly not long ago. Kirby will be placing this music on Reverb Nation and Spotify, and as soon as that is done I’ll post links here so you have access to enjoy 100 Words yourself. Some of his prior releases are available now on these same sources.