Official Website of Donna Anastasi

Spin the Plate

Just reviewed and recommend a wonderful and inspirational life guide from an amazing plate spinner Marc Schiller who survived kidnapping, torture, and attempted murder through his sharp survival skills and the hand of God.

Pain and Gain: How I Survived and Triumphed

My review and recommendation:

I re-read March Schiller’s new book this morning. It is a beautiful life guide and beautifully written. Today is the anniversary if a personal tragedy of 30-some years ago, one of those impossible to put into words events and the one more than any other that I’ve shed the most tears over. The words in this book helped me to more easily not dwell in the sorrow piece and more clearly recognize how it has shaped me and taken me on a path I might not otherwise have pursued.

The book begins with the phrase: “Although we believe that we are born and die only once, the truth is that throughout our lives we die and are reborn many times.” So true. I have a friend with whom we’ve always referred to these event-based stages which transformed us as our “different lives.” Whether through tragedy, opportunity or some joyful event, a lifetime well and fully lived is one where we experience many lives. This book is part how-to guide and part inspiration on how to move from tragedy into opportunity for growth and not allow the bad times to define or stifle one’s life.

The book begins with the story (without any graphic details) of Schiller’s abduction, torture, and extortion during which time all of his belongings were stolen and once all his assets were spent attempts were made to murder him for his life insurance. The conclusion to this story is nothing short of miraculous. Then the book breaks down how the power we all have through mind, emotions, body and soul can enable us to survive tragedy and experience a self-transformation rather than self-destruction. The book concludes with a chapter on inspirational wisdoms combining all of these facets of self.

This is my newest personal go-to guide for inspiration, and I’ve just ordered extra printed copies to give as gifts.