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The Greatest Miracle in the World
For the millions who have embraced Og Mandino's classic, The Greatest Salesman in the World, here is his new book, which contains the amazing Memorandum from God . . . to you.A great inspirational writer tells his greatest story—an amazing narrative that will hold you spellbound . . . as it reveals exciting new secrets for your personal happiness and success.Here is a simple but powerful story that will affect your thoughts and actions long after the final sentence has touched your heart.You will never • The four simple rules that can help you perform a miracle in your life• The glass geranium that will break your heart• The dingy parking lot where Mandino's life, and yours, begins again• The ragpicker who rescues humans after they quit on themselves• The secret of regaining the self-esteem you have lost“A work that will lift the mind and heart of every reader!”—Norman Vincent Peale
130 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 1975
463 people are currently reading
3443 people want to read
About the author
Og Mandino
264 books899 followersAugustine "Og" Mandino II (December 12, 1923 – September 3, 1996) was an American author. He wrote the bestselling book The Greatest Salesman in the World. His books have sold over 50 million copies and have been translated into over twenty-five different languages. He was the president of Success Unlimited magazine until 1976 and is an inductee of the National Speakers Association's Hall Of Fame.
Mandino was born December 12, 1923. According to the 1930 U.S. Census, he was named after his paternal grandfather.
Mandino was once the editor of a high school paper and planned to attend the University of Missouri's journalism school. But in the summer of 1940, before Mandino was able to enter college, his mother died suddenly from a massive heart attack. This happened while Mandino's mother was in the kitchen preparing his lunch. After the incident, Mandino decided to work in a paper factory until 1942. Afterwards, Mandino joined the United States Army Air Corps where he became a military officer and a bombardier. He flew for thirty bombing missions over Germany on board a B-24 Liberator during World War II. It was also during this time that Mandino flew with fellow pilot and movie star, James Stewart. Mandino kept a personalized 8 X 10 photograph of Stewart. This photograph hung on the wall of his home office where he wrote his books.
After his military duties, Mandino discovered that many companies were not hiring many former bomber pilots. As a result, he became an insurance salesman. Traveling on the road and sitting in bars at night, Mandino became an alcoholic. He was unable to keep a job. As a result, Mandino's wife, together with their only child, left him. One wintry November morning in Cleveland, Mandino almost tried to commit suicide. But as he sorted through several books in a library, volumes of self-help, success and motivation books captured Mandino's attention. He selected some titles, went to a table and began reading. Mandino followed his visit to the library with more visits to many other libraries around the United States. He read hundreds of books that dealt with success, a pastime that helped him alleviate his alcoholism. It was in a library in Concord, New Hampshire, where he found W. Clement Stone's classic, Success Through a Positive Mental Attitude, a book that changed Mandino for the better.
Mandino eventually became a successful writer. His works were inspired by the Bible and influenced by Napoleon Hill, W. Clement Stone, and Emmet Fox.
Mandino was born December 12, 1923. According to the 1930 U.S. Census, he was named after his paternal grandfather.
Mandino was once the editor of a high school paper and planned to attend the University of Missouri's journalism school. But in the summer of 1940, before Mandino was able to enter college, his mother died suddenly from a massive heart attack. This happened while Mandino's mother was in the kitchen preparing his lunch. After the incident, Mandino decided to work in a paper factory until 1942. Afterwards, Mandino joined the United States Army Air Corps where he became a military officer and a bombardier. He flew for thirty bombing missions over Germany on board a B-24 Liberator during World War II. It was also during this time that Mandino flew with fellow pilot and movie star, James Stewart. Mandino kept a personalized 8 X 10 photograph of Stewart. This photograph hung on the wall of his home office where he wrote his books.
After his military duties, Mandino discovered that many companies were not hiring many former bomber pilots. As a result, he became an insurance salesman. Traveling on the road and sitting in bars at night, Mandino became an alcoholic. He was unable to keep a job. As a result, Mandino's wife, together with their only child, left him. One wintry November morning in Cleveland, Mandino almost tried to commit suicide. But as he sorted through several books in a library, volumes of self-help, success and motivation books captured Mandino's attention. He selected some titles, went to a table and began reading. Mandino followed his visit to the library with more visits to many other libraries around the United States. He read hundreds of books that dealt with success, a pastime that helped him alleviate his alcoholism. It was in a library in Concord, New Hampshire, where he found W. Clement Stone's classic, Success Through a Positive Mental Attitude, a book that changed Mandino for the better.
Mandino eventually became a successful writer. His works were inspired by the Bible and influenced by Napoleon Hill, W. Clement Stone, and Emmet Fox.
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December 8, 2021
Malo, muy malo.
En realidad 1,3
A pesar del título extravagante, que suele captar la atención del público con mayor facilidad que otros libros, El milagro más grande del mundo no es un libro que valga realmente la pena. Su calidad está muy por debajo de su predecesor, El vendedor más grande del mundo, siendo esta una clara explicación de porqué este libro no es tan conocido en el mundo. Sé que es difícil calificar los libros de motivación porque muchas veces en este tipo de textos no se suele tener en cuenta la calidad de la obra, sino exclusivamente los mensajes que pueden ser de ayuda para una humanidad necesitada de mensajes de aliento; no obstante, con este libro, sí es verdaderamente sencillo hacerlo: Es bastante malo. El milagro más grande del mundo es un libro con una trama súper simple, que copia casi por completo el estilo de El vendedor más grande del mundo, y que no ofrece ni la sabiduría, ni los mensajes motivacionales que se esperarían de Og Mandino. Además, es un libro que usa a Dios como «explicación» de todo lo «inexplicable», por lo que el lector puede sentir al finalizar el libro que no ha aprendido absolutamente nada de esta lectura: Mi caso.
He decidido leer esta historia porque tengo un bonito recuerdo de El vendedor más grande del mundo. Leí aquel libro en una época en la que mi alma me exigía inteligencia emocional porque no podía conectarme con ella, por lo que pasé meses enteros leyendo diferentes temas psicológicos para entender por completo la desconexión que estaba sintiendo conmigo mismo. Por tanto, al igual que los libros de Dale Carnegie, de Enrique Barrios, y uno titulado Setenta recetas para triunfar en la vida, ese libro se convirtió en parte de mi kit de emergencia para mis desolaciones y depresiones, se convirtió en esa mano amiga que me ayudaba a levantarme del piso; y, aunque pasó el tiempo y nunca más volví a necesitar leer ninguno de aquellos libros, siempre estarán en mi corazón porque fueron mi salvavidas para no morir en el fondo del mar. Quizás por ese recuerdo, por esa nostalgia, fue que decidí leer este libro. Para ser sincero no esperaba nada de este libro, sin abrirlo no parecía ser bueno, pero lo leí por un capricho en el que intentaba agradecer de forma simbólica a Og Mandino por crear aquel libro que me ayudó en mis momentos difíciles. Quizás me hubiera gustado este libro en otro tiempo, pero ese tiempo ya caducó hace mucho.
Por otra parte —y al igual que en muchos libros de autoayuda— me ha parecido muy sucia la forma como el autor intenta que leamos su libro completo. Naturalmente, si te dicen que sigas leyendo para encontrar lo verdaderamente valioso del libro, pues tú lo haces esperando que esa información sea REALMENTE VALIOSA, pero si sientes que esa información no ha valido la pena conocerla, entonces naturalmente te sentirás defraudado y engañado: Eso es lo que ocurre aquí. Libros como este, nos recuerdan, que hay cientos de escritores que realmente no les interesa el contenido de sus libros, ni la satisfacción de sus lectores; no, lo que a ellos les interesa es vender porque eso es lo que son: Vendedores de libros.
La mejor sección del libro fue el inicio. Obviamente, si el libro hubiera sido malo desde el principio pues nadie se atrevería a continuar con su historia, así que encontramos un inicio sencillo pero interesante que nos genera un poquitico de curiosidad por seguir leyendo. Ya después, más adelante, el libro empieza a presentar errores sin sentido, a repetir mil veces el mismo mensaje, y sinceramente la única razón que justifica la continuación de esta lectura, es por los mensajes prometidos que ya mencionaba en el párrafo anterior. Se nota que fue un libro escrito por obligación, un libro escrito bajo presión para aprovechar el momento publicitario y así obtener más ganancias. De no haber sido así, este libro tendría más profundidad, más cariño en la estructura, y estaríamos hablando de otra obra completamente diferente: Desafortunadamente, esta es una de esas ocasiones, y me duele decirlo, en que hubiera sido preferible que este libro nunca hubiera visto la luz.
En resumen, un intento de continuación de la gran historia llamada El vendedor más grande del mundo, que no pasa de ser un completo fracaso, que no tiene sentido, y que no tiene ninguna clase de utilidad para ningún lector de cualquier edad. Si tienes un buen recuerdo de El vendedor más grande del mundo, y de Og Mandino, no leas este libro o destruirás ese recuerdo bonito que quizás tienes en tu mente. Libro no recomendado.
En realidad 1,3
A pesar del título extravagante, que suele captar la atención del público con mayor facilidad que otros libros, El milagro más grande del mundo no es un libro que valga realmente la pena. Su calidad está muy por debajo de su predecesor, El vendedor más grande del mundo, siendo esta una clara explicación de porqué este libro no es tan conocido en el mundo. Sé que es difícil calificar los libros de motivación porque muchas veces en este tipo de textos no se suele tener en cuenta la calidad de la obra, sino exclusivamente los mensajes que pueden ser de ayuda para una humanidad necesitada de mensajes de aliento; no obstante, con este libro, sí es verdaderamente sencillo hacerlo: Es bastante malo. El milagro más grande del mundo es un libro con una trama súper simple, que copia casi por completo el estilo de El vendedor más grande del mundo, y que no ofrece ni la sabiduría, ni los mensajes motivacionales que se esperarían de Og Mandino. Además, es un libro que usa a Dios como «explicación» de todo lo «inexplicable», por lo que el lector puede sentir al finalizar el libro que no ha aprendido absolutamente nada de esta lectura: Mi caso.
He decidido leer esta historia porque tengo un bonito recuerdo de El vendedor más grande del mundo. Leí aquel libro en una época en la que mi alma me exigía inteligencia emocional porque no podía conectarme con ella, por lo que pasé meses enteros leyendo diferentes temas psicológicos para entender por completo la desconexión que estaba sintiendo conmigo mismo. Por tanto, al igual que los libros de Dale Carnegie, de Enrique Barrios, y uno titulado Setenta recetas para triunfar en la vida, ese libro se convirtió en parte de mi kit de emergencia para mis desolaciones y depresiones, se convirtió en esa mano amiga que me ayudaba a levantarme del piso; y, aunque pasó el tiempo y nunca más volví a necesitar leer ninguno de aquellos libros, siempre estarán en mi corazón porque fueron mi salvavidas para no morir en el fondo del mar. Quizás por ese recuerdo, por esa nostalgia, fue que decidí leer este libro. Para ser sincero no esperaba nada de este libro, sin abrirlo no parecía ser bueno, pero lo leí por un capricho en el que intentaba agradecer de forma simbólica a Og Mandino por crear aquel libro que me ayudó en mis momentos difíciles. Quizás me hubiera gustado este libro en otro tiempo, pero ese tiempo ya caducó hace mucho.
Por otra parte —y al igual que en muchos libros de autoayuda— me ha parecido muy sucia la forma como el autor intenta que leamos su libro completo. Naturalmente, si te dicen que sigas leyendo para encontrar lo verdaderamente valioso del libro, pues tú lo haces esperando que esa información sea REALMENTE VALIOSA, pero si sientes que esa información no ha valido la pena conocerla, entonces naturalmente te sentirás defraudado y engañado: Eso es lo que ocurre aquí. Libros como este, nos recuerdan, que hay cientos de escritores que realmente no les interesa el contenido de sus libros, ni la satisfacción de sus lectores; no, lo que a ellos les interesa es vender porque eso es lo que son: Vendedores de libros.
La mejor sección del libro fue el inicio. Obviamente, si el libro hubiera sido malo desde el principio pues nadie se atrevería a continuar con su historia, así que encontramos un inicio sencillo pero interesante que nos genera un poquitico de curiosidad por seguir leyendo. Ya después, más adelante, el libro empieza a presentar errores sin sentido, a repetir mil veces el mismo mensaje, y sinceramente la única razón que justifica la continuación de esta lectura, es por los mensajes prometidos que ya mencionaba en el párrafo anterior. Se nota que fue un libro escrito por obligación, un libro escrito bajo presión para aprovechar el momento publicitario y así obtener más ganancias. De no haber sido así, este libro tendría más profundidad, más cariño en la estructura, y estaríamos hablando de otra obra completamente diferente: Desafortunadamente, esta es una de esas ocasiones, y me duele decirlo, en que hubiera sido preferible que este libro nunca hubiera visto la luz.
En resumen, un intento de continuación de la gran historia llamada El vendedor más grande del mundo, que no pasa de ser un completo fracaso, que no tiene sentido, y que no tiene ninguna clase de utilidad para ningún lector de cualquier edad. Si tienes un buen recuerdo de El vendedor más grande del mundo, y de Og Mandino, no leas este libro o destruirás ese recuerdo bonito que quizás tienes en tu mente. Libro no recomendado.
September 15, 2020
My Aunt lent this book to me. After almost 2 months inside my book shelf, I finally placed a hand on this super inspiring book. How downhearted I felt because of not reading it upon receiving it. This book was totally awesome. When I say awesome, not just the simple one, but AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
If you feel the music in your life is already out of tune, just grab this book and read it to know the hidden secrets in every tune of music that is present in each one of us.
Love is the greatest secret to live happily ever after.
So let us spread love and have a peaceful life.
I am highly recommending this one to all of you.
Because of my undying love for this book, I would want to share some lines or quotes that really inspired me. Actually, each page of this book will lived a mark on someone's heart because there's magic in every page. So be ready to get inspired. Start turning the page to have a successful and happy life. :)
"Martyrs do not fail when their hearts cease to pump."
"Only man, each in his own, has the ultimate decision on how his life is lived."
Super like!!!!!!!!! 100 Trillion percent. :)
If you feel the music in your life is already out of tune, just grab this book and read it to know the hidden secrets in every tune of music that is present in each one of us.
Love is the greatest secret to live happily ever after.
So let us spread love and have a peaceful life.
I am highly recommending this one to all of you.
Because of my undying love for this book, I would want to share some lines or quotes that really inspired me. Actually, each page of this book will lived a mark on someone's heart because there's magic in every page. So be ready to get inspired. Start turning the page to have a successful and happy life. :)
"Martyrs do not fail when their hearts cease to pump."
"Only man, each in his own, has the ultimate decision on how his life is lived."
Super like!!!!!!!!! 100 Trillion percent. :)
November 10, 2010
Outside of scriptures, this is the book I recommend the most for others to read. It is an awesome book! One of the few books that has actually made me cry and continues to do so every time I read it. I've read other Og Mandino books, but none touch me nearly as much as this one. My favorite quote from the book is:
"But how does all this connect to those books you've got piled up. Certainly they don't contain any secret methods on how to come back from the dead."
"Ah, but they do, Mr. Og. Most humans, in varying degrees, are already dead. In one way or another they have lost their dreams, their ambitions, their desire for a better life. They have surrendered their fight for self-esteem and they have compromised their great potential. They have settled for a life of mediocrity, days of despair and nights of tears. They are no more than living deaths confined to cemeteries of their choice. Yet they need not remain in that state. They can be resurrected from their sorry condition. They can each perform the greatest miracle in the world. They can each come back from the dead . . . and in those books are the simple secrets, techniques, and methods which they can still apply to their own lives to become anything they wish to be and attain all the true riches of life."
(pg. 14)
This book is a Must Read!
"But how does all this connect to those books you've got piled up. Certainly they don't contain any secret methods on how to come back from the dead."
"Ah, but they do, Mr. Og. Most humans, in varying degrees, are already dead. In one way or another they have lost their dreams, their ambitions, their desire for a better life. They have surrendered their fight for self-esteem and they have compromised their great potential. They have settled for a life of mediocrity, days of despair and nights of tears. They are no more than living deaths confined to cemeteries of their choice. Yet they need not remain in that state. They can be resurrected from their sorry condition. They can each perform the greatest miracle in the world. They can each come back from the dead . . . and in those books are the simple secrets, techniques, and methods which they can still apply to their own lives to become anything they wish to be and attain all the true riches of life."
(pg. 14)
This book is a Must Read!
Read
April 29, 2012I'm rating this zero stars. If this isn't the worst book I've ever read, it ranks very close to it, and it's an incredibly dangerous read to boot. Mandino says he has something "direct from God" for readers, but it's simply a mish-mash of pop psychology (circa 1970s) dressed in "God-language" with a few Bible verses (in flowery KJV) to add to the effect. The message, which has been delivered over the years in various forms of dress-up, is the very familiar song and dance related to the power of positive thinking. Our problem, according to Mandino, is that we don't think highly enough of ourselves, and that once we do, we will achieve everything we have the capacity to achieve. The last time I checked the Bible, that isn't the major problem God identifies for us--not that it matters to Mandino. Please don't read this book. If you want to hear from God, pick up a Bible--even a KJV if you so choose--and get the real scoop, not some terrible schlock from a fraud.
Read
September 21, 2022I have mixed feelings about this book.
I mean, is it a message worth reading?
Yes.. but ONLY by someone who is fully abled.
And that isn’t sitting well with me.
I wish the author framed it all in a better way.
I mean, is it a message worth reading?
Yes.. but ONLY by someone who is fully abled.
And that isn’t sitting well with me.
I wish the author framed it all in a better way.
January 14, 2011
Well, first things first. I will not be coming back to this page to see any of these comments again. Now, that being said. Let this statement prove something to you that we may just have forgotten (indeed many of us)........A critic (of this book or in-general) is simply a soul who is no longer folllowing his dream.......
Ch. 9 is where it's all at fellas, the stories greatest value is that it may be false or true, but the message is real just the same. There is no thriller in this one of a killer or ultimate victory, just quite and simple recognition of your ( yes, you reading this ) utmost importance to the creator of all things. Without you there is nothing for him to truly be proud of. For someone to see you in that light is the nest gift one can recieve.
Ch. 9 is where it's all at fellas, the stories greatest value is that it may be false or true, but the message is real just the same. There is no thriller in this one of a killer or ultimate victory, just quite and simple recognition of your ( yes, you reading this ) utmost importance to the creator of all things. Without you there is nothing for him to truly be proud of. For someone to see you in that light is the nest gift one can recieve.
August 6, 2016
I imagine that Og was rolling in the dough after he wrote this book in the 1970's. As a salesman and article writer, he must have known how to have people buy into what he said without secularizing beliefs. Thus, readers are not proselytized (as in most Christian memoirs).
If I'm assuming correctly, the seventies were a time when most individuals were stuck between the fantastical and logic. Og shapes a "true story" (where is the proof?) into a tale with various philosophical references and manages to tie it into a religious message. All the while, he maintains facts through discussing evolution. Liberals at the time must have had a field day.
I always find these sort of books strange. Why does there need to be a supernatural explanation? It makes it more interesting, but far less believable. It's like the author is trying to sell an idea. Truth is often far stranger than fiction. Unless someone provides me tangible proof to the events taken place within this story, I'd prefer not to buy into them.
The writing is a bit disjointed. I can't decipher specific philosophical points given throughout the story, which is important if you want to make a real impression on a reader. As it goes, everything appears to be mashed together in some sort of mumbo-jumbo. It's like getting delectable, microwaveable, mashed potatoes from Wegmans and then biting into lumps. It's disgusting.
There are great points made within this story, but it seems to just be every philosophy anyone has ever encountered smushed together to make some off-handed conclusion. Humans believe that we have no control over anything, and in my opinion, that is correct. As for Shakespeare's aphorism, the fault is in ourselves not because we cannot control things, but because we don't do anything about them. Saying that Shakespeare did not believe in fate is the most uneducated statement you can make. Everything in one's environment influences their "free will," but if we are our environment, then we have indirect "choices." That's my own philosophy.
Mandino's actual writing format is flimsy as well. There are multitudinous places where commas should be inserted and are not. Being profound does not exempt you from grammar. It only makes me take you less seriously.
Og's character, Simon reveals that the human race is dysfunctional because we have low self esteem. I think that this is accurate. There are, of course, people who seem to have the most inflated egos in the universe. But if you look at the majority, society has stamped on our self esteem until we are not confident in our goals--and even worse--ourselves. We've relied on technical aspects and material goods to define how uplifted we are.
This is when we are introduced to the God Memorandum. The problem with this memorandum is that it is not moving and does not present an actual solution. Using second person tactics are unhelpful if you're trying to get one past me. The prose isn't even good.
The solution the God Memorandum tries to bring about is finding a common denominator between all humans so the "you" makes sense. How is this possible when you are trying to express that we are all individuals? How would it help a person's self esteem? Of course, it does makes me feel pretty good to know that I was the fastest sperm. I remind this to my friends when they are uncertain about something. "But you're the fastest sperm! That must be why you can't run. You never really got over that workout."
That's all great stuff. It is amazing to think of the cells inside every body and all the statistics showing how none of us should be alive. But to turn this into a counterargument of: well, there is a reason. Well, what is it? Second person can't tell someone that.
Just because your self esteem is sufficient, doesn't mean you can solve the problems that come to you each day. It won't help loneliness. Saying that the longer you are unhappy, the better reward you will receive, without an explanation is the dumbest thing you can ever tell someone.
Then what do I think can raise a person's self esteem? Do what you love. Be yourself. Laugh. Keep busy. Open up to other people with common interests. Take time for bettering yourself. This will make you feel like a true person--an individual does not have to isolate themselves from the 4 billion other sperms.
It does make you feel special though, doesn't it? Is it the greatest miracle, or the fastest sperm?
If I'm assuming correctly, the seventies were a time when most individuals were stuck between the fantastical and logic. Og shapes a "true story" (where is the proof?) into a tale with various philosophical references and manages to tie it into a religious message. All the while, he maintains facts through discussing evolution. Liberals at the time must have had a field day.
I always find these sort of books strange. Why does there need to be a supernatural explanation? It makes it more interesting, but far less believable. It's like the author is trying to sell an idea. Truth is often far stranger than fiction. Unless someone provides me tangible proof to the events taken place within this story, I'd prefer not to buy into them.
The writing is a bit disjointed. I can't decipher specific philosophical points given throughout the story, which is important if you want to make a real impression on a reader. As it goes, everything appears to be mashed together in some sort of mumbo-jumbo. It's like getting delectable, microwaveable, mashed potatoes from Wegmans and then biting into lumps. It's disgusting.
There are great points made within this story, but it seems to just be every philosophy anyone has ever encountered smushed together to make some off-handed conclusion. Humans believe that we have no control over anything, and in my opinion, that is correct. As for Shakespeare's aphorism, the fault is in ourselves not because we cannot control things, but because we don't do anything about them. Saying that Shakespeare did not believe in fate is the most uneducated statement you can make. Everything in one's environment influences their "free will," but if we are our environment, then we have indirect "choices." That's my own philosophy.
Mandino's actual writing format is flimsy as well. There are multitudinous places where commas should be inserted and are not. Being profound does not exempt you from grammar. It only makes me take you less seriously.
Og's character, Simon reveals that the human race is dysfunctional because we have low self esteem. I think that this is accurate. There are, of course, people who seem to have the most inflated egos in the universe. But if you look at the majority, society has stamped on our self esteem until we are not confident in our goals--and even worse--ourselves. We've relied on technical aspects and material goods to define how uplifted we are.
This is when we are introduced to the God Memorandum. The problem with this memorandum is that it is not moving and does not present an actual solution. Using second person tactics are unhelpful if you're trying to get one past me. The prose isn't even good.
The solution the God Memorandum tries to bring about is finding a common denominator between all humans so the "you" makes sense. How is this possible when you are trying to express that we are all individuals? How would it help a person's self esteem? Of course, it does makes me feel pretty good to know that I was the fastest sperm. I remind this to my friends when they are uncertain about something. "But you're the fastest sperm! That must be why you can't run. You never really got over that workout."
That's all great stuff. It is amazing to think of the cells inside every body and all the statistics showing how none of us should be alive. But to turn this into a counterargument of: well, there is a reason. Well, what is it? Second person can't tell someone that.
Just because your self esteem is sufficient, doesn't mean you can solve the problems that come to you each day. It won't help loneliness. Saying that the longer you are unhappy, the better reward you will receive, without an explanation is the dumbest thing you can ever tell someone.
Then what do I think can raise a person's self esteem? Do what you love. Be yourself. Laugh. Keep busy. Open up to other people with common interests. Take time for bettering yourself. This will make you feel like a true person--an individual does not have to isolate themselves from the 4 billion other sperms.
It does make you feel special though, doesn't it? Is it the greatest miracle, or the fastest sperm?
August 12, 2010
I include this in fiction because this IS a STORY, and it happens to be well-told. This is a self-help book which espouses American right-of-center beliefs that somewhat resemble secular humanism. I'm not ashamed to admit that I used to buy into this kind of drivel when I was younger. However, there are two assertions made here that are actually true. One, that people who lack a high degree of motivation are essentially living suicides, and two, that even those thoughts that we "casually" expose our minds to have a very real & tangible, albeit unconscious, effect in our lives.
But the point is not whether the author's argument is "correct", but whether it is good storytelling, as with all mass media. Obviously the ideas are so trite they fall apart like cardboard under scrutiny. But the form that the narrative takes and the way in which the story is told is so, so effective that it draws you in even against your better judgement. Its no wonder this author is one of the highest-selling authors of all time.
But the point is not whether the author's argument is "correct", but whether it is good storytelling, as with all mass media. Obviously the ideas are so trite they fall apart like cardboard under scrutiny. But the form that the narrative takes and the way in which the story is told is so, so effective that it draws you in even against your better judgement. Its no wonder this author is one of the highest-selling authors of all time.
November 1, 2011
I really enjoyed reading this book for several reasons. Throughout the book my opinion of the main character, Simon, changed. I liked that it kept me reading to find out if Simon was being veracious or not. The author did a great job of personalizing the story, as well as giving it a mysterious feel. This book is great for anyone in need of a good pick me up and some motivation. By the end of the book I felt inspired to use my "powers of choice."
June 16, 2017
Otro Best-Seller que fui obligado a leer, es un buen libro nuevamente para su objetivo que es el de motivación. Y además presenta una historia interesante, un diálogo de la rutina en un mundo civilizado y la paciencia sabia. Interesante relación de ambos personajes que al final digamos es el hilo conductor y lo que llama la atención de esta obra plagada de buenas recomendaciones y reflexiones.
July 30, 2011
i could not put down this book when i began reading it...as i read the God memo I cried and cried...this is definitely one of my favourite books!
August 2, 2023
JOYA!!!
Me encantó mucho más que su antecesor "El vendedor más grande del mundo" es un libro muy bello, toca fibras muy sensibles, en especial para aquellos que han perdido la fe en la vida y en sus ilusiones.
Simón Potter fue un personaje que me robó el corazón, un señor que sabía de muchos temas y que nunca dudaba en quitarse el pan de la boca para ayudar a otros, su profesión es la mejor de todas definitivamente, ser "trapero" es algo que se requiere para construir un mundo mejor, y el memorándum que proporciona se siente como una plática con Dios donde nuevamente te replanteas la manera en que valoras la vida.
El final es alentador pero sobretodo, muestra una historia de superación y éxito, y más con Og Mandino, quien tiene la misión de nuevamente hacer magia con sus letras, gracias a que conoció a Simón Potter, es un escritor renovado y con más fe en sí mismo, listo para cumplir sus propósitos y que otros, (así como él lucha por sus metas) lo hagan también.
Todos deberíamos leer este libro cuando sentimos que la vida se nos va. Simplemente es FASCINANTE y BELLO en toda la extensión de la palabra.
Me encantó mucho más que su antecesor "El vendedor más grande del mundo" es un libro muy bello, toca fibras muy sensibles, en especial para aquellos que han perdido la fe en la vida y en sus ilusiones.
Simón Potter fue un personaje que me robó el corazón, un señor que sabía de muchos temas y que nunca dudaba en quitarse el pan de la boca para ayudar a otros, su profesión es la mejor de todas definitivamente, ser "trapero" es algo que se requiere para construir un mundo mejor, y el memorándum que proporciona se siente como una plática con Dios donde nuevamente te replanteas la manera en que valoras la vida.
El final es alentador pero sobretodo, muestra una historia de superación y éxito, y más con Og Mandino, quien tiene la misión de nuevamente hacer magia con sus letras, gracias a que conoció a Simón Potter, es un escritor renovado y con más fe en sí mismo, listo para cumplir sus propósitos y que otros, (así como él lucha por sus metas) lo hagan también.
Todos deberíamos leer este libro cuando sentimos que la vida se nos va. Simplemente es FASCINANTE y BELLO en toda la extensión de la palabra.
December 4, 2013
In this novel, one of the World's foremost inspirational authors, Og Mandino, shares the greatest secret in the world (no I am not going to tell you what it is). Using his encounters with a "ragpicker" named Simon Potter, Og Mandino shares a story about life and finding happiness that ultimately culminates in the "Memorandum from God."
Whether or not one believes the story surrounding the events that lead to the creation of the memorandum, I found this book inspirational and it was a very enjoyable read. And, judging from the accolades it has received, it appears that many share my sentiments.
Whether or not one believes the story surrounding the events that lead to the creation of the memorandum, I found this book inspirational and it was a very enjoyable read. And, judging from the accolades it has received, it appears that many share my sentiments.
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January 29, 2020A friend was moved, inspired, and comforted by this book. She asked me to read it. In solidarity, and gratitude that it helped her, I did so.
June 24, 2020
I honestly wasn't expecting to enjoy this book as much as I did
January 17, 2025
I am the greatest miracle.
April 8, 2022
No habrá más horas juntos en las que podamos saborear nuestro jerez en la paz y el calor de una gran amistad que no conoció las barreras del tiempo y del espacio. Lo dejo, por ahora, no con la tristeza, sino con satisfacción y felicidad de haber caminado juntos, hombro con hombro, a travez de este breve momento de eternidad. ¿Quien puede pedir más?
December 18, 2015
This is definitely a book for those who can chew the meat, spit out the bones. I think it does a wonderful job at reminding you that you are God's creation and therefore a miracle. Makes me think of Psalm 139. I don't care for Og Mandino's theology nor The God Memorandum in chapter 9 as there are several unbiblical parts. There are better books out there to explain this principle, the utmost being the Bible. Glad I read it, wouldn't necessarily feel comfy recommending it.
I will include my favorite quote, however..
"Consider a painting by Rembrandt or a bronze by Degas or a violin by Stradivarius or a play by Shakespeare. They have great value for two reasons: their creators were masters and they are few in number. Yet there are more than one of each of these.
On that reasoning you are the most valuable treasure on the face of the earth, for you know who created you and there is only one of you.
Never, in all of the seventy billion humans who have walked this planet since the beginning of time has there been anyone exactly like you.
Never, until the end of time, will there be another such as you.
You have shown no knowledge or appreciation of your uniqueness.
Yet, you are the rarest thing in the world.”
I will include my favorite quote, however..
"Consider a painting by Rembrandt or a bronze by Degas or a violin by Stradivarius or a play by Shakespeare. They have great value for two reasons: their creators were masters and they are few in number. Yet there are more than one of each of these.
On that reasoning you are the most valuable treasure on the face of the earth, for you know who created you and there is only one of you.
Never, in all of the seventy billion humans who have walked this planet since the beginning of time has there been anyone exactly like you.
Never, until the end of time, will there be another such as you.
You have shown no knowledge or appreciation of your uniqueness.
Yet, you are the rarest thing in the world.”
November 8, 2012
This was my first and most probably my last Og Mandino book. It was sweet, preachy, and a little dated. I think the sentiment was good and did enjoy Chapter 9, The God Memorandum. The problem was the eight chapters leading up to it were not my cup of tea. The story was that Og met God in the flesh and God gave him a memo to print for the world.
The four laws of happiness and success according to God? 1. Count your blessings. 2. Proclaim your rarity. 3. Go another mile. 4. Use wisely your power of choice. These are rules to live by, but it was one chapter. The only thing that kept me reading to Chapter 9? The book is only 98 pages.
The four laws of happiness and success according to God? 1. Count your blessings. 2. Proclaim your rarity. 3. Go another mile. 4. Use wisely your power of choice. These are rules to live by, but it was one chapter. The only thing that kept me reading to Chapter 9? The book is only 98 pages.
January 9, 2013
A story by the author who meets a mysterious stranger. The strange helps the author overcome some problems then is gone as if he were never there in the first place. the stranger is Simon Potter. Is he really God? He gives the author four steps to be happy and over come a lose of self esteem. The book seemed dated and out of touch with today's ideas. I really did not gain much in the reading other than learning what the book was about. It is not just a self help book, but a religious self help book. I rate it as just okay
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September 3, 2014The G-d Memorandum in this book changed my life. It gave me the ability to find my G-D and to bring Him back into my life and to stay clean and sober...I am writing this on my 19th year of Sobriety and if it were not for this book and my sponsor...I would not be here today! The Grace of G-d does wondrous things. If you struggle with a conception of G-D this book will help you find your way.
I grew up in the neighborhood in Chicago that this takes place in...so the story is very real to me!
I grew up in the neighborhood in Chicago that this takes place in...so the story is very real to me!
December 10, 2009
My favorite self help/inspirational book (outside of scripture). I've used the God Memorandum countless times in working with youth and have found it to be a powerful means of improving a person's self-image. I've gone back to it often in times of discouragment or depression. I have owned countless copies of this little book, as I keep giving away the one on my bookcase.
June 17, 2010
I remember liking this book the first time I read it. I changed my mind after I re-read it in 2005. I mean, the book is full of inspiring messages but the way Simon kept praising Og Mandino over and over was very annoying.
April 25, 2025
There were a few things I found myself questioning, but I can’t help but smile.
I wonder how many people have encountered “Simon” in their lives? I have… sad to say, I didn’t take the opportunity to talk with him. But, there is growth.
The greatest miracle could be performed in/through each and every one of us, but we have to be willing to let God direct the miracle.
I wonder how many people have encountered “Simon” in their lives? I have… sad to say, I didn’t take the opportunity to talk with him. But, there is growth.
The greatest miracle could be performed in/through each and every one of us, but we have to be willing to let God direct the miracle.
December 30, 2020
Not everyone's cup of tea, but if you are looking for inspiration this book delivers. I love this book. It is my second time reading it. I read it the first time as a young adult about 27 years ago. I realize now that much of "The Memo" has stuck, and the refresher i received while reading was very needed and timely. I am now passing these books on to my children.
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June 5, 2018Worth the read.
January 8, 2020
This book started to help me see my life in a different light, there are some perspectives that I never considered before reading this.
December 8, 2020
I listen to the God Memorandum on YouTube every day since I finished reading this book, for all the multi-taskers out there.
Have you even read this book if you didn’t cry?
Have you even read this book if you didn’t cry?
January 5, 2023
This book was absolutely amazing, soul touching, inspiring, well written, & over all.. BEAUTIFUL.
It was such an emotional book in some ways, but I loved every bit of it. It is a must read, especially for Christians or people just searching for answers for their life!
It was such an emotional book in some ways, but I loved every bit of it. It is a must read, especially for Christians or people just searching for answers for their life!
December 18, 2024
I love this book so much plz read it!! I’ve read it before but trying to read it every Christmas. Perfect little story
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