Review : Do Hard Things

I thoroughly enjoyed this book.

Although directed at teenagers, Joel and Brett (of The Rebelution) have come up with a manifesto that's suitable for readers of all ages.

DHT urges people to go against this culture's tide of advanced slackerism. (Yes, I just made that up.) We live in an age that has gone beyond one that promotes convenience to one that seems to enjoy pushing the idea that young people don't have to make any effort--on nearly any front. From bad grades, to bad behavior, if you're between the ages of 13 to 19, well then, you're in luck! Your age will excuse all ills and acts of stupidity.

The authors encourage (young) people to smarten up. We all have the ability to realize that God didn't put us on this earth to do and be nothing. Mind you, the authors do spend a lot of time talking about young people who are involved in various organizations and/or gaining notoriety in their chosen fields. Yet I came away from the book with the idea that even in the most ordinary moments, each one of us has the opportunity to use our lives. To live well--by making the most of whatever it is we have been blessed with, wherever we are.

These "hard things" that the boys speak of have been dubbed such because our society seems to emphasize the joys of taking the easy way out. Of everything. Indeed, when faced with a challenge, it's often easier to say or do nothing than raise your voice.

Yet we weren't wired that way.

What has apathy and laziness gotten us, apart from a callous culture of disrespect? I sincerely hope that as time goes on, people start to take a look at our culture. And that the tide continues to begin to turn. Do Hard Things is definitely a step in the right direction.