Better Than Oprah

February 11, 2009 in Killing Cockroaches with Comments Off

It really doesn’t matter what you think of Killing Cockroaches. This is the only book review that matters. My mom wrote me last night. Here’s what she had to share:

Dear son,

I came home from school today and found a package in my mailbox.  It was your book!!  I looked at it and I ran the cockroaches across the pages a few times.  My usual routine when I come home from school is get comfortable…sit in my recliner…and prepare to watch Oprah. I decided to change routines today and sit and start your book. Not only are you responsible for me missing Oprah but believe it or not I even missed American Idol.  If you talk to my friends you know that is unheard of for me to do.

It was the right decision!  What a powerful book!  I am always amazed at your talent to write.  This book is my favorite. I so enjoy how you presented your ideas. You are so right about learning from story telling. You had some great stories to relate to your projected points.  And yes…humor is important. I laughed out loud a few times.  It is kind of funny how your mother is still watching over you as you blog and twitter…but I don’t care…I love it! I’m 61 and I can do whatever I want.

On a more serious note…you had a lot of  GREAT or I should say AMAZING observations and ideas to encourage church leaders. I liked your dialogue with other leaders.  There is so much more…I will need to call you and talk to you soon about the book.

Why do I always use  (…)  when I type?

I love you so much dear son!

Momma-Jo

I love you too, Mom! Thanks for writing your note. I just wish you would have included that part where you tell people I was the “perfect kid” growing up. That’s my favorite part.

No Responses to “Better Than Oprah”

  1. Adam Herod February 11, 2009 at 3:42 pm #

    That’s awesome Tony! I’m looking forward to starting the book soon. Should I take a pic with it a la MCD?

  2. beth February 11, 2009 at 4:14 pm #

    I love your mother.

  3. Kim Levings February 11, 2009 at 5:05 pm #

    Great review from your mom – love it. I laughed out loud about her (…) observation – tell her I’ve been doing the SAME thing lately?? what IS up with that…? Look forward to reading your book too! SO many new publications! I think “…” means that the writer is taking a breath, and wants you to reflect on what she’s saying… !

  4. jason salamun February 11, 2009 at 6:11 pm #

    what a great letter tony! very cool.

    enjoying the book so far…

  5. bob robbins February 11, 2009 at 6:36 pm #

    Thanks for sharing the note from your mom. I’m looking forward to the book but I just wanted to thank you for your willingness to share your life.

  6. Rey De Armas February 11, 2009 at 8:15 pm #

    Moms rock! can’t wait for the book. already pre-ordered it from b&n!

  7. Mommajo February 11, 2009 at 10:39 pm #

    You were the perfect child!!

    Love you,
    Momma-Jo

  8. Alan Stoddard February 12, 2009 at 11:45 am #

    Awesome man! Go mom!!

  9. Jon (your brother) February 12, 2009 at 5:05 pm #

    Thanks for the book, Tony. Don’t get too excited about the “perfect child” comment. Mom just emailed me to let me know that no matter what I read on your blog, I’m the one that was perfect.