Reflections: Inspirational Quotes & Interpretations

by John Fioravanti, Nonnie Jules (Foreword)

What do YOU think?

Does this question engage you or take you out of your comfort zone? Does it put you on the spot? REFLECTIONS is award-winning author and former educator John Fioravanti's answer.

Offering his interpretations of fifty quotes by contemporary and ancient thinkers alike, John dives deep below the surface of words and explores the deeper meanings that shape his view of the world.

Deeply personal and presented in a self-effacing manner, these self-aware reflections will encourage you to dig deep within yourself and to discover more about the underlying truths that guide you.

Without trumpets or fanfare of any kind, John Fioravanti aspires to inspire you!

204 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 1, 2016

About the author

I was born in Toronto, Ontario and raised in Dundas, Ontario with my two brothers and one sister.

After graduating from Cathedral Boys High School in Hamilton, ON, I decided to study for the Roman Catholic priesthood at Resurrection College in Kitchener/Waterloo.After deciding I could not live the celibate lifestyle, I left the seminary and completed my undergrad degree in History at St. Jerome's College, University of Waterloo.

I became engaged to Anne Runstedler after graduation and entered teacher training in Hamilton. Anne and I were married in June, 1973 and I started teaching the following September. My thirty-five year career teaching History was split between two schools: St. Benedict in Cambridge, and St. David in Waterloo.

Anne and I raised three children in Waterloo, and I retired from teaching in June, 2008.

My first book (2002) "Getting It Right in History Class" was published by Data Based Directions - a text to guide students in the development of classroom writing skills. My second book (2007, 2008, 20010, 2014) "
A Personal Journey to the Heart of Teaching" was published by Iceberg Publishing. It won an IPPY Bronze Medal in 2008.

Anne and I decided to form our own publishing company, Fiora Books, in December 2013. We republished "A Personal Journey to the Heart of Teaching" in May 2014 under our own imprint.

We are looking forward to publishing the first novel of my futuristic drama series "The Genesis Saga" in the fall of 2014.

Reviews

[Christy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book offers meaningful interpretations of a range of posts chosen by the author. I like that each interpretation includes a small bio on the person who wrote the quote. There are inspiring quotes from Maya Angelou, Elbert Hubbard, Florence Nightingale, and more.

The author has personal insights to add to the quotes that gives them more meaning and substance. Such an uplifting read!

[Robin Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author, John Fioravanti, has done a marvelous job is selecting each of the inspirational quotes he has chosen for inclusion in this book.

Starting off with a selected quote and who said it, the author then shifts his reader’s attention to how each quote has come to manifest itself in own existence as he reflects on his personal thoughts. As I read through each of the quotes I found myself experiencing my own contemplations as to how each of the quotes relates to life, with a variety of emotions, from sad to happy, coming up for. I read this book over a course of two days, because I wanted to write my review for it; but I feel, anyone who opts to get a copy of his endeavor by Mr. Fiorvanti, should take their time getting through the book by reading one quote a day, then reflecting on what it means to yourself and finally comparing your experience to that of the author’s. The results I had received on a handful of occasions had paralleled that of the author’s signifying how while we might feel our lives are unique to ourselves, they are in fact, shared by others. For having given me and that of other readers, an insightful reading experience by asking us in the beginning of the book’s description; “What do YOU think?”, how can I not give the author the 5 STARS I’ve given him.

[Mae Clair · Rating 5 out of 5]

A lot of people use daily devotionals to start their day. I recommend adding Reflections by John Fioravanti to your morning routine—or any time when you need inspiration. The author has provided 50 “reflections” (short essays) based on inspirational quotes. I dog-eared many pages as I read through this uplifting volume, and marked numerous passages with a highlighter. Each message is presented thoughtfully and concisely. This is a collection that will never grow old, but which is sure to provide new gems of wisdom each time it is read. Thought-provoking and Highly recommended!

[Robbie Cheadle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a wonderful collection of quotes from a spectrum of people who have all achieved great success. The manner in which each individual has aspired to his/her goals or greatness is reflected in most of the quotes and the author provides an interesting interpretation of what each quote means, for everyone, but also in terms of his own life, aspirations and achievements.

I related strongly to many of these quotes and enjoyed the variety of thoughts shared in this book. The quotes are attributable to people from all walks of life and from a number of different eras throughout history. It was fascinating to see how many characteristics and driving forces within highly successful people in life are still relevant today. Some of the historical figures whose quotes are included in this book are Florence Nightingale, Aristotle and Anne Frank.

There are also a number of quotes by motivational speakers, writers, poets and political activists all of whom share the common goal of striving towards a better world for all people. I did not know all of the people quoted, as many of them are American, but the author has included a mini autobiography at the beginning of each analysis so I was able to appreciate each persons contribution to society and mankind even if I had not previously heard of them.

A great read and one I highly recommend.

[D.L. Finn · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Reflections: Inspirational Quotes & Interpretations” is precisely what the title says and more. There are fifty quotes from various sources that Mr. Fioravanti explores the meaning of in thoughtful, detailed short essays. Many I found myself nodding in agreement. I enjoyed each quote, but I had my favorites that hit home for me. I was not only inspired but provoked to take a more in-depth look at life. I read this on my Kindle, but I will buy the physical copy because it is a book, I will enjoy reading many times. I highly recommend this.

[Fiza Pathan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a really defining one for me. I was so inspired & uplifted by it that I could hardly put it down. 'Reflections' by John Fioravanti managed to motivate me to become a better person full of self-confidence, self-assurance & self-reliance. I was feeling very unsure of myself for the past few days & it was this book that brought me back to focus on the many roles I play as a daughter, niece, teacher, writer, publisher & distributor. I'm not going to forget this book in a hurry. This is the defining self-help book I've read at the beginning of this year 2020. The book is well organised & dwells on certain specially chosen inspirational quotes by famous activists, writers, self-help authors, sports-stars, business tycoons, social workers etc. Author Fioravanti calm voice echoes throughout this book which guides, heals & motivates. I read his reflections & analysis of the quotes mentioned here & it was an eye-opening experience. I highly recommend this book to everyone who needs some good brain juice as well as soul juice to carry on life meaningfully. Pick up your copy of Fioravanti's book today, you will not regret it one bit. Are you looking for a unique inspirational book, then read this book. Looking for a very well written & edifying book of reflections on the mind, soul & spirit then this is the book for you. Looking for a book to take you out of the doldrums then pick up your copy of Fioravanti's book today. I really could identify with Fioravanti in this book because just like him, I am also a teacher & a writer. The reflections here in this book about his teaching & writing career can really inspire you to be better at these two precious vocations. Kudos to Fioravanti on a job well done ! I hope to read more books penned by him in the near future. Happy reading to everyone !

[Natalie Ducey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reflections by author Fioravanti is an absolute gem of a book. The author candidly shares his interpretations of 50 inspirational quotes by well-known and highly distinguished people, such as: Maya Angelou, Emily Dickinson, and Anne Frank, just to name a few. The author articulates his thoughts so eloquently, with such candour and grace, it’s impossible not to look within and dare to reflect on our own thoughts and perceptions, without self-imposed judgement or fear.
I took my time reading this book, allowing myself to reflect and engage with my personal views. I have since revisited many of the 50 interpretations, and firmly believe this book will be one that will stay with me for years to come. I currently have the eBook version, but will be treating myself to the printed version for sure.
This is a gift for the soul and a highly recommended read!

[Karen Ingalls · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book as a gift for Christmas and it was the perfect book! A most inspirational, informative, and interesting collection of quotes and the author's interpretations. Mr Fioravanti shares how his life has been challenged and affected by some of the messages from the various quotes. As a writer and someone who has changed careers I found many of the quotes very helpful and insightful.

[Rox Burkey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Author John Fioravanti has amassed inspiring data on people who share the common goal of contributing to a better world. The format is easy to read and undrstand. Reading the words of the quoted technologists, motivational speakers, actresses, authors, religious leaders, coaches and so forth, made me think about how their comments apply to me at this time in my life. John provides detailed insights he discovers in himself from each of these quotes based on the individual’s background and their achievements.

The quotes are richer because of the real life experiences of the individuals. All of the people John included were not born famous, but made the most of each element in their life journey. At all the intersections they faced, they made choices to drive the outcomes or results they wanted.
One of the quotes that stood out for me was by Miguel Angel Ruiz.

“Be impeccable with your word. Speak with integrity. Say only what you mean. Avoid using the word to speak against yourself or to gossip about others. Use the power of your word in the direction of truth and love.” – Miguel Angel Ruiz

It reminded me of behavior my mother insisted upon. “If you can’t say something nice about someone and mean it, don’t say anything at all. At this point this book provided a new dimension for me. Reading to a bit of insight from another as a quote, seeing John Fioravanti’s thoughts on the subject, and then naturally putting it into my frame of reference or life exerience was enlightening. The quotes assembled are relevant to most who take a path of growth with a desire to be their best at whatever they do.

I recommend this book to anyone 16 and older. If you do read it I would challenge you to put it away for a couple of years then read it again. At different points in your life many of these quotes will mean different things. Thank you John for the research and effort you did to make this for anyone and everyone.

[Balroop Singh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reflections: Inspirational Quotes and Interpretations took me back into those corridors of learning where I had acquired the habit of collecting quotes and deriving inspiration from them. John Fioravanti has picked up some timeless quotes, with universal values and has added his own interpretation, with personal insights and experiences. Sometimes his analysis is refreshingly different and enriching – Mandino speaks of light but how prudently John interprets it as “truth!” You have to read it to appreciate that wisdom. The short introduction that he has given about the authors he quotes has added extra charm to this book. Some of the most relevant quotes are those of Aristotle, Buddha, Helen Keller and Maya Angelou that would continue to inspire humanity for ages.

“Be miserable. Or motivate yourself” says Wayne Dyer and how well John has explained that wallowing in self-pity keeps you stuck in the situation! Interspersed with life lessons, John’s book emphasizes that it is your attitude toward life that matters. We have to conquer our fears to live a meaningful life. If we know our potential, if we nurture independent thinking, if our attitude is positive, if we choose to be happy, we can become a better human being. One reading of this book is not enough. The more you read it; more clearly you would see the paths of life, you would also discover how cultivating a positive attitude helps in understanding that happiness is a choice that lies within us. Highly recommended.

[Robert Fear · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Voice of Inspiration

On the cover, John Fioravanti is described as ‘A Voice of Inspiration’. That intrigued me. The further I delved into his writings the more this bold claim proved to be true.

The concept of this book is simple. Take fifty quotes from a variety of people that have touched the author’s life, ranging from ancient philosophers to more recent influential characters and talented individuals from the present day. Then add personal experiences and interpretations to those inspirational quotations. A simple concept maybe, but it takes real skill to write the motivational passages Mr Fioravanti has done in such an easy-to-understand way.

Enthusiasm and the love of writing shine through as you read the author’s astute observations. His background as a History teacher for thirty-five years gives reassurance of his own experience in tackling many challenges in the real world. Despite his own self-confessed demons, which he has learned to overcome, a positive and refreshing approach to life inspires you to achieve the same.

I read this book after Christmas, a period of reflection on the year just gone and the year to come. It challenged me on many levels. The lessons learned will help improve my attitude toward life. It is an inspirational volume I will return to when I need renewed motivation.

[John Podlaski · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reflections: Inspirational Quotes and Interpretations by John Fioravanti is a collection of fifty quotes by famous and not-so-famous individuals, some dating back centuries. They address the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects of life, as well as the choices a person makes to be their best. All are meant to inspire, and many others to motivate.
The author shares his interpretation and explains how the quote has impacted his life. As a former teacher, Mr. Fioravanti writes in a clear and concise manner that is easy to read and understand. I was surprised to read how some of these quotes impacted him personally, and then I said to myself, “Hey, I’ve done that.” One part of a quote that stuck with me throughout was “Never give up.” That is my mantra for whatever I choose to do in life.
I found it challenging to write a comprehensive review of the entire collection as a whole, and I believe that each of the fifty quotes and interpretations deserves a review of its own. Readers will find that there is something for everyone in this book, and many of the interpretations will resonate with them. If you want ideas on how to improve your life, then read this book.
When you finish, I’m certain you won't forget it and will come back to it multiple times. I highly recommend it and give it five stars.

[Joy Lo-Bamijoko · Rating 5 out of 5]

As I read these collections of reflections, I noticed that I have read and been inspired by some of them at other forums. These are words to live by, words that inspire. Most of those behind these sayings did not start life as winners but through their setbacks and experiences gained from scaling these setbacks, they were propelled into thinking only of how to actualize their dreams. Their positive thinking about life made them winners.

All of these inspirations, from Helen Keller, Steve Jobs, Mary Kay Ash, Maya Angelou, to Nonnie Jules, just to mention a few of them, left us a rich legacy of words to live by, words that will propel our lives toward good if only we can internalize and apply them to the way we live and think.

All these thoughts left me thinking of my own life and how some of the sayings are a reflection of my own life, I am a positive thinker and I found all of the sayings true lessons for life. Those are words that would help one who is on the path of perdition right back on the right path. True redemptive gems! I see this as a handbook for those souls who need to be constantly reminded of what life is. It is very beautifully written. I recommend it!

[Yvette Calleiro · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is not my normal kind of read, but I have read other books from this author, and I love quotes, so I figured I would enjoy it. And I did! In fact, I loved it. I learned that I have a lot in common with this author, which is nice.

The author chooses 50 quotes to analyze and interpret. He does so in such a way that it is easy to understand and reflect upon their meanings. He shares how he connects with the quote by sharing parts of his life with the reader. He is not judgmental or critical but simply invites each reader to ponder on the meaning of the quote and connect it with his/her own life.

This is a great book to read and come back to every now and then to remind one's self of the greater purpose of life. I definitely recommend this book to others. :-)

[Rea Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful book to keep bedside--wisdom to dream on. Beautiful reflections on quotes and sayings that we may have read, but not really considered in depth, or at least Fioravanti's depth. The author endows his interpretations with unique and personal insight, bringing new life to even the most familiar quotes. Really enjoyed this book, and plan to keep it as a handy reference.

[Jan Sikes · Rating 5 out of 5]

An inspirational book that I will refer to often. Between the amazing quotes are life experiences that we can all gain from. This is a great read!

[Maureen Twomey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was having an “okay” day, when I began to read this book by John Fioravanti. Well written and much needed for me and everyone. Thank you!