FLY!: Find Your Own Wings And Soar Above Life's Challenges

by Lex Gillette

At age eight, Elexis "Lex" Gillette, learned he would never see again. Little did he know the devastating news was the beginning of a fascinating adventure that would lead him to athletic competitions all over the world. 

With the encouragement and support of a dynamic and resolute mother who was deteremined for her son to function independently in the sighted world, Lex attended public schools in Raleigh, NC. In high school, Lex met Coach Brian Whitmer and was introduced to a life-changing track and field event...

...the long jump

"Fly!" is more than the story of an athlete. The chapters not only tell great stories but also convey important, inspirational messages. 

This is a book for all ages. It inspires, entertains, and informs as it encourages everyone to "Fly!"

125 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 12, 2020

Reviews

[Kevin Niu · Rating 4 out of 5]

Provides an interesting perspective on life. Not the greatest writing ever; however, the stories and lessons make up for the writing level.

[Amy Roebuck · Rating 5 out of 5]

You can read it in a day, but you will go back to it for inspiration many times more, I'm sure. Overcoming adversity, setting and reaching your goals, living a full life, all in one small, well-written package.

Lex is a favourite friend of a family of friends, and escorted my daughter at a wedding some years back, so maybe I'm biased. But try it yourself, and see.

[Luke Seibert]

While telling of his incredible experiences, Lex weaves in small bits of philosophy and information about blindness, mixing it all together with a good dose of humor. Easy and enjoyable read.

[Lauren J. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lex has a great story to tell. He is a role model to many and his description of his journey is heartwarming. His mother is amazing!

[Jenny · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. Very empowering.

[Endira77 · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author of this book graduated from the high school where I teach, so clearly, I have a sense of pride in the connection. I could envision his mother and grandmother as well, recognizing my 0wn background with southern, poor, fierce women. Lex has a wonderfully positive and humorous point of view. It's unique because it describes the process of accepting that you're going blind alongside the development of character, discipline, faith, and inner strength necessary to be an accomplished athlete. He includes relevant, universal truths. For instance, he says on pg. 70, "When we won't allow ourselves to see life's possibilities, when we focus on our restrictions instead of on our potential, all we are doing is thinking about the [metaphorical] blindfold." This life lesson is couched in the anecdote of working intimately with his guide. He continues, "Experience and the willingness to try are important. But trust holds the key to almost all achievement: trust in the process, trust in your training, trust in your abilities, and trust in others." Yet, it doesn't read with didactic, somber, or self-help tones. It feels like you're having lunch out with a friend. I appreciated the personality and the principles in this book, an easy, quick read with powerful, uplifting, meaningful messages.

This book is also special because it is the first one I read with a beautiful man that eventually became my husband. These are his reflections: The story was inspiring because it makes you think and act more with hope and courage. We believe that we can do great things, and we can take pride in our hard work and perseverance. You think less about limitations and reach forward rather than being dragged backwards. You have to have humility and self-discipline.

[Taylor Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lex has a way with words - his writing is conversational, relatable and inspiring. I saw him speak at a company event and am so glad I read his book! This is a great book to read one chapter at a time before going to sleep. Filled with entertaining stories, many doses of wisdom and some self deprecating humor, I found myself grinning a bunch while making my way through.

[Rick Echevarria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love, confidence, appreciation and wisdom ... and a tremendous dose of perspective

I’ve had the privilege to speak to Lex Gillette so the book was a bit special as I could “hear it in his voice.” I guess I should have expected great story telling. What I was not expecting was the wonderful amount of wisdom that Lex packed into his book. When you think about Lex you think about vision but you also think about focus as in the succinct and powerful way he shared his rich experiences. Lex is all about impact and it’s clear the world is and will be a much better place because of Lex ... and he’s just getting started! May he and his family continue to be blessed!