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Mark Erwin
An Unlikely Journey
by: Mark ErwinBORN INTO A FAMILY OF WEALTH and privilege during World War II, Mark Erwin’s childhood was less than normal or happy.The son of a free-spirited, socialite mother who was used to getting whatever she desired, he witnessed her decline into depression, alcoholism, and despair, which almost destroyed the family. This could be called a story of “riches to rags and back to riches” with plenty of life lessons between.
BORN INTO A FAMILY OF WEALTH and privilege during World War II, Mark Erwin’s childhood was less than normal or happy. The son of a free-spirited, socialite mother who was used to getting whatever she desired, he witnessed her decline into depression, alcoholism, and despair, which almost destroyed the family. This could be called a story of “riches to rags and back to riches” with plenty of life lessons between.
As a teen he was headed straight for disaster when he met his Lord while locked up in juvenile hall at age sixteen. A kindly judge, perhaps in response to Mark’s prayers, gave him a chance to redeem himself.
An Unlikely journey follows his miraculous path from this rocky beginning to the curious and extraordinary places and positions neither Mark nor his family and closest friends could have ever envisioned.
With no financial resources, little education, and few prospects, he overcame many challenges to achieve success in business, philanthropy, politics, diplomacy, and life, developing along the way a credo to “Make a Difference. Do Good. Have Fun.”
Erwin is truly a self-made man, though for all of his accomplishments, he considers his family the greatest achievement. His wife, Joan, and he have been married forty-four years and have reared two wonderful daughters, who in turn have rewarded them with three beautiful granddaughters.
Rev. Mike Bailey – :
I enjoyed and appreciated your recent book An Unlikely Journey! I found it filled with nuggets of wisdom, humor, authenticity and insight. I especially loved reading all of the “inside” stories of your appointment and relationship with those who serve our great nation. Thanks too, for sharing your faith so openly.
Judge Casey Visor – :
I finally had a minute to breathe on a flight to Canada last week. I was pleased to realize I had stashed “An Unlikely Journey” in my carry-on bag. I really enjoyed your book. Imparting wisdom and experience through the written word is a unique talent. I was most fascinated by the stories of your grandparents.
Ambassador Jeanette Hyde – :
I THOROUGHLY ENJOYED READING YOUR BOOK. I TRULY COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN. A FASCINATING LIFE YOU HAVE LIVED. YOU ARE AN INSPIRATION TO ANYONE OF ANY AGE AS TO THE POSSIBILITIES ONE HAS IF ONE WILL PERSEVERE. I ADMIRE YOU TREMENDOUSLY AND I WILL BE BUYING YOUR BOOK FOR GRADUATION AND OTHER GIFTS — FOR YOUNG PEOPLE— BUT FOR ALL OF MY “OLD“FRIENDS ALSO. YOU CAN QUOTE ME!!! — “A GREAT LIFE!! A GREAT BOOK.
Larry Polsky – :
Your book is an easy read and, admittedly, I did have trouble putting it down. I enjoyed the part about your time in Africa during the Clinton administration, including your close and valued relationship with President Clinton. However, the compelling part for me centered around your childhood and overcoming the myriad of challenges through hard work, focus and faith. Well done.
Michael A. Almond – :
I just finished “Unlikely Journey.” Wonderful! Your story is most inspiring, and I salute you for sharing it with others. Many lessons to be learned.
Barry Finch – :
Just finished “AN UNLIKELY JOURNEY” and I agree with Joan, one of the best books I have ever read!!!!!! And I thought I knew the “real” Mark Erwin, though your empathy and vulnerability are truly your greatest strengths. I hope your inspirational story mentors many of our youth in need. As Ben Franklin advised, you have done “things worth the writing” and have now written “something worth reading”!!!