This book is just a couple hundred pages long and is written in short essays, describing lessons that Goff (who has never been one to take the conventional road to anything) has learned in life, always illustrated with stories. The theme tying the stories together is (surprise!) love. Goff says that one of the most important things that he has learned in his life is that love is not passive: love does.

While reading the book, I found myself scratching my head more than once. Goff told stories about boldness, imagination, and audacity. He told about adventures like sailing to Hawaii, helping a stranger propose on his back porch, and flying his kids around the world to meet and befriend politicians. Throughout, I wondered what these principles should look like in my own life. What has God called me to do? Who has He called me to love audaciously? Am I doing that, or do I need a little more imagination? How will I know? Goff answered:

“Add your whole life, your loves, your passions; and your interests together with what God said He wants us to be about, and that’s your answer . . .Tell me about the God you love; tell me about what He has inspired uniquely in you; tell me about what you’re going to do about it, and a plan for your life will be pretty easy to figure out from there” (p. 143).

I’m in a period of waiting right now, so for me, that means using my time wisely. I can be involved at church and help my family. I can find other placed to volunteer my services until I am employed again. I may not have a job, but that doesn’t mean I have to waste time. There are still tons of people around me to serve and encourage.

I enjoyed this book immensely, and I would recommend it to anyone who wants to make a difference in the world. Goff brings up many issues that need to be thought through. But be forewarned, though it’s easy enough to read, you will be left with more questions than answers at the end. That’s because a book like this calls for action—love does. And hearing how Goff has lived love out will probably give you some great ideas about where to start.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”