Byron Williams does a good job in conveying his story to us about his trials and tribulations of trying to reach his dreams of becoming a professional athlete, published author, sports agent and bodyguard even. It’s an interesting story, even though it’s not to “deep”, it’s written well enough for young people, especially will benefit and take a lot away from reading this book.
He gives 10 tips in his book that we all could adhere to and add to our lives to help our lies be a little bit better. Especially in regards to “at risk” youth, he advises them to (1) avoid the problem(s) at all times in the first place. Also such helpful tips of “never giving up on yourself”, “always listen to your conscious”, “have a backup plan, and then a backup plan for your backup plan”, “turn your darkest hour into a shining moment”, and “take time to embrace your failures, and then set them free”.
Its little reminders like this that can help anyone keep on track, and keep pursuing their dreams. Williams has gone off to do a lot of great things with his life after his basketball dreams ended with severe injuries early on. He’s ambitious, works hard, positive, and has a very positive future in front of him.
Young people, especially, I encourage you to read this book and take the time to add a lot of the helpful tips into your life as well.
James Donaldson is a Washington State University graduate (’79). After an outstanding basketball career with WSU, he went on to play professional basketball in the NBA with the Seattle Supersonics, San Diego/L.A. Clippers, Dallas Mavericks, New York Knicks, and Utah Jazz. He also played for several teams in the European Leagues in Spain, Italy, and Greece, and he toured with The Harlem Globetrotters to wrap up his career. James was an NBA All-Star in 1988 while playing center for the Dallas Mavericks. In 2006, James was inducted into the Pac-10 Sports Hall of Fame and also the Washington State University Athletic Hall of Fame. In 2010, James was elected as a board member for the NBA Retired Players Association.
James frequently conducts speaking engagements (motivational, inspirational, educational) for organizations, schools, and youth groups.
In 2010, James was the recipient of the NBA Legends of Basketball ABC Award, awarded for outstanding contributions in Athletics–Business–Community.
He believes in being a role model for success and professionalism to the scores of young people to whom he devotes so much of his time. He currently serves on several boards and committees and is a member of many organizations.
James believes in developing relationships that create a “Win-Win” environment for everyone involved, and in being the best he can be!
For more information about James Donaldson or to request he speak at your event, contact him at:
www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com
JamesD@StandingAboveTheCrowd.com
1-800-745-3161 (voicemail & fax)
James Donaldson is the author of “Standing Above The Crowd” and “Celebrating Your Gift of Life” and founder of the Your Gift of Life Foundation which focuses on mental health awareness and suicide prevention, especially pertaining to our school aged children and men.
If you’re interested in having James come and speak to your group of young adults, business entrepreneurs, aspiring political and community leaders, and athletic teams, please contact him at jamesd@yourgiftoflife.org and or leave a personal message for him at 1-800-745-3161. Keep up with him and read about how he is reaching out and making a difference in the lives of so many around the world at www.yourgiftoflife.org
