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REGGIE: You Can't Change Your Past, but You Can Change Your Future

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I don’t have to see your home to know your shame . . . I have my own.

But someone loved me just the way I am, and someone loves you just the way you are.

Meet Reggie Dabbs.

Born as the result of a heart-wrenching decision made by his then sixteen-year-old mom, Reggie offers hope and inspiration to those who are stuck in the despair of their broken beginnings and are crying out for help. It is this first chapter in his life that sets Reggie on the journey of a lifetime—one filled with fear, regret, sorrow, and, ultimately redemption. Taking a chronological look at his life, Reggie reveals the transforming power of faith, weaving in personal anecdotes, biblical principles, and ten ways to discover everything from your voice and your name to your hero and your passion. Prepare to discover, as Reggie did, that although you cannot change your past, you can change your future.


“Reggie Dabbs is one of the strongest, most influential voices God has raised up to speak to this generation.”—Jentezen Franklin

Reggie not only will inspire you but also will lead you on a journey to the core elements of life—and the potential therein to change.”—Mark Batterson

240 pages, Paperback

First published March 29, 2011

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Reggie Dabbs

8 books4 followers

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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
Profile Image for Jamie.
102 reviews
April 27, 2011
Reggie is an autobiography and inspirational book in one. The author is a motivational speaker in high schools all around the world and in this book he shares a lot of what he speaks to those kids. He shares funny anecdotes, childhood memories, narrates Bible stories in a modern way and includes questions at the end of each chapter, some simple, some pretty deep.

I found the very beginning of the book to be a little bit arrogant. He talks a number of times about how many kids he speaks to, how he's invited all over the world, and proclaims how he is considered one of the most popular public school and motivational speakers in the world. After that I found it hard to continue, but I had to, partly because I don't like leaving a book unfinished, and partly because I received this book free from BookSneeze to review.

A lot of the book is filled with analogies, so much that I found it sometimes hard to follow and to remember what he was even talking about. I also thought he was maybe a bit crude in some instances, though you can tell he is gearing his book mostly towards teenagers and young adults, so then those kinds of references are forgivable. I also did not like how he used the story of creation to state that since God didn't make His usual "It was good" comment after what He created on Tuesday (or the second day of creation) to say that a "Tuesday" in your life is a time when it's difficult to see the good, implying God had difficulty seeing the good in part of His creation. Seemed like a bit of a stretch.

The saving grace of this book was his modern takes on Bible stories as well as the entire last two chapters of the book. For as much as I was lost amid the analogies and motivational-type writing throughout most of it, I was enthralled with his renditions of well-known stories from 'his favourite book,' as he calls the Bible. As well, the last chapter in particular focuses on how important a father is in every person's life, and he explains very well how God is our Daddy. He breaks down what people today think of the concept of how God is our Father, and revamps it to better suit the Biblical Heavenly Father. He also gives a couple powerful examples of God working amazingly through the lives of mere humans.

This book is probably very well suited to high schoolers, or even adults, who feel lost, trapped by their past and worried about their future. It gives hope through God and he explains the plan of salvation well.
Profile Image for Beverly Frisby.
50 reviews15 followers
April 7, 2011
"You can't change your past, but you can change your future." This quote is from the front cover of "Reggie" and is so true. Yet how many of us spend too much time dwelling on occurrences from the past instead of focusing on the future in front of us? Before reading this book, I had never heard of Reggie Dabbs. After reading his book I can understand why he is such a phenomenal motivational speaker.
The book isn't just a retelling of Reggie's life with a sad beginning and happy ending, it is an eventful ride which began with a birth mother who was a prostitute, asking a teacher, her only friend, to raise her son. The teacher and her husband adopted Reggie. It wasn't until second grade that Reggie realized his parents were not his birth family. Although raised in a loving home, Reggie struggled growing up with obstacles which made him question his self worth. It is through these struggles that he finds the transforming power of God's love. It is Reggie's faith in this love, how it changed his life and continues to help him evolve today that has made Reggie the motivational speaker that he is today. Reggie wants to share this message of God's love and that each day we have choices to make and it is how we respond to those choices that will determine our future.
"I don't have to know your name to know your pain...I have my own. I don't have to see your home to know your shame...I have my own. But someone loved me just the way I am, and someone loves you just the way you are." This is a poem hastily written by Reggie when he was sixteen and his English teacher gave him an assignment to write a poem. Now, this stanza is repeated by Reggie at speaking engagements around the world. The book is divided into ten chapters and at the end of each chapter, there are questions that can be used by the reader alone, in a group discussion or a book club. "Reggie" will inspire readers of all ages and I highly recommend this book.

A free copy of this book was provided to me by the publisher through BookSneeze Blogger in return for my unbiased review.
Profile Image for C.E. Hart.
Author 8 books43 followers
September 10, 2015
Reggie Dabbs is a motivational, inspiration, fascinating spiritual man. (“…one of the most sought-after public school and event speakers in the United States and the world for more than two decades.”) In this book, he tells entertaining and heartbreaking stories of his life, as well as decisions he’s made that led him to success in life, love and happiness. This isn’t a ‘preachy’ book—telling you what you should and shouldn’t do, but words of encouragement that prompt you to explore your own heart, your own life, and the choices you have or have not made.

He stresses three strong points throughout the book. 1. You can’t change your past, but you can change your future. We all have pains, mistakes, tragedies, etc…, but they aren’t insurmountable. We can get past them. They don’t have to leave us feeling defeated. 2. He expresses a deep love and concern for the youth of our world. The teenage years are not useless years of sowing oats, getting into (or staying out of) trouble. Teens can and do make a significant difference in this world; and Reggie illustrates how. 3. God surely loves you.

I’ve never really read a book like this. I feel as if I’ve gained a friend. Yeah, I know that sounds cheesy, but Reggie’s caring heart is conveyed so clearly in this book. He shares God’s love in a unique and powerful way. His conversational writing style is captivating and inviting.

It is unlikely you’ll read this book and not be changed in some way. It may be a small modification in your way of thinking—or it might be life altering, but I’m certain a transformation will occur.

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.”
Profile Image for Janet.
64 reviews14 followers
April 14, 2011
REGGIE: YOU CAN'T CHANGE YOUR PAST, YOU CAN CHANGE YOUR FUTURE



Reggie by Reggie Dabbs, John Driver

Synopsis


The inspiring, true story of a man who went from nothing to speaking to more than two million people each year.
Reggie Dabbs's life changed when in the second grade he realized his parents were not his real parents, and that his birth was the result of a twenty-dollar deal his sixteen year old unwed mother made to secure the food she needed for her three other children. I
...moreThe inspiring, true story of a man who went from nothing to speaking to more than two million people each year.

Reggie Dabbs's life changed when in the second grade he realized his parents were not his real parents, and that his birth was the result of a twenty-dollar deal his sixteen year old unwed mother made to secure the food she needed for her three other children. Interwoven with humorous and thought-provoking anecdotes and illustrations, as well as stories from the Bible and his travels around the world, this is the true, chronological story of Reggie and his message for students and adults alike that they are powerless to change their past, but they possess a unique potential to change their future.

MY REVIEW

Reggie Dabbs is a motovattional speaker that changes lives. REggie says, "you can't change your past, but you can chanage your future." That is so true. he had many things to over come. First, being told that his parents were not his parents in second grade. he also struggled with behavior and bad grades in school(because he had add). Instead of hiding in the past he uses his story to help many people around the globe. This is a very touching and heartwarming trip through his life. i laughed in some parts and cried in others. I would reccomend this book to any one that confused or unsure where life is taking you. I really enjoyed this book.
Profile Image for Stephanie Ziegler.
308 reviews23 followers
August 20, 2012
* THIS REVIEW CONTAINS SPOILERS *

I loved this book from the first page and Reggie’s stanza that was the start to changing his future. Reggie was born because his Mom needed money to feed her two kids and had sex. Reggie was conceived for $20. Then, Reggie’s Mom asked Reggie’s adopted parents to take care of him. Reggie’s appearance resembles the old TV show character “Fat Albert” and was constantly teased. Loving football and music, activities on opposite ends of the popularity spectrum, Reggie did not fit in anywhere. It was a professor in college who asked Reggie to accompany him to a conference and asked Reggie to tell them his story. Reggie’s voice and scars became the motivation for him to help children, even adults, know that someone loves them.

A great thing about Reggie’s book is that it feels like he is talking to you, like him and I were having a conversation. He has a great sense of humor and has learned to laugh at himself (i.e. his appearance). He does not throw religion in your face. In each chapter, he tells a bible story but in laymen terms and uses modern-day examples to help us understand. I have not read the bible but I feel like I now know some of what is printed in there. He also uses his own personal stories as examples, some make you laugh, some bring a tear to your eye. There are pictures throughout the book that shows him as he grew up, his parents, him talking to students and that makes me feel like I am his friend because he is allowing me into the most personal part of his life. At the end of each chapter are “Questions for Individual and Group Reflection.” I did not answer them, but they are good if a classroom or a book club read this book.

Every time I turned the page, I wished Reggie would come to my town so I can hear him speak. That wish alone shows you how great the book is and how great Reggie is!

If you don’t believe me, check it out for yourself!

Until next time, take life one page at a time!

8 reviews2 followers
April 1, 2011
Reggie Dabbs is a world recognized motivational speaker. In this book, REGGIE, Dabbs tells his story of his past that could possibly cripple his life and sometimes does. But is his discovery of finding himself, he finds God and his true purpose.
Dabbs’ story will make you laugh and cry. I found myself wanting to be like Reggie! He is very inspiring, and helps you take a good look at your life and how your past might be holding you back. More than a story, this is a spiritual study guide. At the end of each chapter, there are ten very powerful and insightful reflection questions. This book would be great for a group of students who are new or undecided in their faith. His words will challenge the students in ways most other guides will not. He relates to students well through the use of entertaining stories and pondering questions that will dig into their souls and find those hurt s that hinder them.
Dabbs shares funny, personal stories that connect the reader to his message. In one story, his Pinkie Toe talks with the rest of his body; trying to warn the body to stray from harm. He correlates this story to one small voice making a big difference in the world. He also relates Bible stories to his experiences, including the story of Hosea and Gomer. However, the first three chapters confused me – who is his audience? Is he speaking to students or adults? Also this is a book about finding God , but God isn’t mentioned until the third chapter. These little stories are broken up with in other stories creating confusion in the plot. However, if you dig through the confusion, the effort is well rewarded.
I would recommend this book to church small group youth leaders. But more importantly, if you are someone who is searching for yourself and God, this book will help you find both!
Profile Image for RYCJ.
Author 23 books32 followers
September 1, 2019
Reggie is amazing, and that’s both the person and the book. He opens up with, “Hi, I’m Reggie,” and then personably engages readers by sharing the discovery of his “born” identity through Biblical parables and spiritual anecdotes. Humorous without doubt, his energy is insatiable in the way he delivers his messages. I’m not one who easily takes to motivational spiels, but this one had both my legs, pulling me right along with his audiences of mixed ages, genders, professions, and ethnicities to get suited up for a persuasive reality check. On point, there’s something in here for everyone.

I found "Personal Tuesday" most meaningful. It speaks about pain in a way I don't believe I've heard put this way before. It's easy to understand the ideology of managing pain, but managing pain through embracing it unexpectedly slipped up on me. "Waiting by the door" conveyed a priceless message as well. Understanding his biological mother's position and the gift of her decision was another soft spot. The birth of his son was another. The youngster he found on that near fateful day, again powerful, and unbelievable I might add too. The impassioned Shammah was pretty tough getting through. I had difficulty swallowing and holding back the tears. But the part where I laughed the hardest, rounding out this stimulating motivational experience, and that was coming by Batman; Know Your Hero! A memorable story this one was...analogous for all of us trying to hide our pain inside our little superhero costumes... footies and all.

How truly priceless!
Profile Image for Paula Whitehouse.
7 reviews
October 25, 2013
This is a book about REGGIE. I write his name in capital letters because he deserves it. It’s REGGIE’s life story up until now. It’s a message of hope, and a message that a lot of people – Christian and non-Christian – need to hear. It’s about how one man, who came into the world in the most unlikely circumstances, changed his life and the life of many because of God. It’s about sharing with people that God can use anyone to share with others about how much He cares for and love us, His children.

REGGIE is a wonderful motivator. Throughout my depression/anxiety journey there have been many moments when I’ve felt like I’m alone, that nobody cares and that I’m doing life without anyone. REGGIE has reminded me that I’m not alone, that people, and especially God, cares, and that I have many people who are doing life with me.

REGGIE held my attention throughout this book with his witty manner. The same witty manner that captivates hundreds of school kids in gymnasiums, and thousands (even tens of thousands) of people in auditoriums all around the world.

REGGIE conveys God’s message of love in such a way that anyone can get it. I already love God and I now “re-get it”. I would wholeheartedly recommend this book. Whether it be to a mature, new or in-between Christian, or a non-Christian, a staunch non-believer. REGGIE tells it like it is. God’s truth about God’s love.

(http://www.paulassharingspot.com/2012...)
Profile Image for Patricia Kirk.
Author 1 book27 followers
June 24, 2011
Reggie Dabbs travels the world as a good pied piper to teens, leading them out of the dungeon of self-loathing in to the sunlight of a future and a hope. He gives his testimony as motivational speaker. Then he tells them they have worth and they will do wonderful things. The book, Reggie, explains his philosophy and relates his testimony. Pages follow each chapter so readers can understand how their past might have affected their lives.

I hesitated to read Reggie because I thought “Oh no. another poor li’l kid story.” I reviewed other books in that genre and liked them for their happy endings. Presently, I don’t want the sadness.

But I enjoyed Reggie’s story. He’s laugh-aloud funny even while telling of heartache when his schoolmates teased him because he looked like Fat Albert, Bill Cosby’s cartoon creation—and his sadness in discovering the parents he loved adopted him. He hurt for the mother who had him in prostitution to feed the rest of her children.

He believes too many children grow up feeling without value. It’s his mission to set them on a path of self-respect and achievement. He speaks like your neighbor across the fence, so those who want a scholarly thesis may want to bypass this. Worth reading for those with a heart for teens or a heart for a man who took a life of anything but privilege and, with God, changes society, one child at a time.
Profile Image for Pilar.
160 reviews6 followers
February 14, 2017
This book is very motivational and inspirational. Reggie talks about his life and ministers to the youth.
Profile Image for Nicki.
1,458 reviews
December 2, 2011
This is such an encouraging audiobook. I thought that by the title a lot of this book would be about principles of how to make life better by positive thinking. I am very glad to say that is nothing of the kind. The author reads himself in a brilliant conversational style, that makes you feel like he is having a intimate heart to heart with you and you alone. He does wander off topic a lot, but he does warn that he will do this in beginning. His stories are funny and thought-provoking throughout.
His passion and purpose is very clear throughout the book and he is very gospel centred. No way can you doubt his love for God and young people.
I would recommend this to anyone who feels that life has let them down, and they need a reminder that they are loved by their heavenly Father.

Thanks to christianaudio.com Reviewers Program for the free copy of this audio.
3 reviews
January 10, 2012
This is a self-help book that ranges from teenagers to Adulthood. It's never to late or impossible for change. Reggie gives you moving spiritual self-help and common sense counsel through his book. His experiences are true-life events that give insight to everyday feeling and thoughts experienced by many today. Although this is not a large book you will want to take time to read it; like a devotional. A chapter a day. Reggie is very easy reading as well as a thought provoking book. This is a now book and will not soon age. Hopeful, inspirational and encouraging are great words to define this book. I found it better to read like a devotional one chapter and then meditate on his unique insights. The book Reggie is a good one for those looking for help and solutions to everyday stresses, problems and a need for change. A rare book to add to your library to read again from time to time.
Profile Image for Jeedge.
77 reviews
February 8, 2015
Wow, what an amazing book. It took me a while to get through it, but thrilled I did. Brilliant.
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