Dedications;
I now know that throughout my severest trials, and the greatest storms of my weathered life, it was God alone who had within those storms, been my life preserver. If only we could truly see and envision that those night and differences throughout our lives, could in fact be those cross-roads within their own mythical nature, where our physical world and the spiritual one meet. It's within this interpretation, that this book is dedicated to the Everlasting Glory of God...
I wish to extend prayers of deep and eternal gratitude to my best friend Bonnie Wilson, whom by the grace of God has been one of the greatest night and day, differences in my life. Without her influential encouragement and spiritual guidance, I would still be walking about aimlessly lost. Her unwavering loyalty of friendship, gives this word within her graceful elegance, a divine definition all of its own. She has truly left an everlasting trail of footprints, engraved deep within my heart...At times it seemed like she had called in her own personal excavation crew, as together we sat within countless hours, while in reflection of my weathered life, and searched the very depths of my tortured soul. I' m not sure how it happened, but she had melted the coldness that for so long had imprisoned my heart, and once she had peeled away all the calloused layers, mystically like on the wings of a dove while at the altar with me, gave it to God. If there were no tomorrow, I would want her to always know that I consider her friendship, after our Lord Jesus, the greatest gift of my life.
Also a great thanks to Pastor David Jobson, for he had made it perfectly clear to me that within any church, membership was never meant to be, nor should it ever be, a prerequisite in the path of baptism. His passion alone was in my desire to be baptized in the name of Jesus. Ministries around the world should grasp the significance within these words of wisdom." Anyone whose heart has finally opened, expressing a desire for baptism, which may in and of itself have arose from within, but a moment of Divine Revelation. Therefore God's servants should clearly understand the importance and careful attention now necessary which is greatly dependant upon their unwavering faithfulness. For it's within this leap of faith that any hesitation, unwillingness, or the slightest inattention and neglect within the significance of baptism, will all weigh heavily on the balancing scale towards a successful conversion."
My deepest appreciation and respect is given to the widely recognized Pastor Paul Reynolds, Bishop of the Emmanuel Pentecostal Church, here in British Columbia, Canada. It was in listening to his message." It's the second birth that counts" that for the first time in forty years, I was truly able to grasp the uniqueness of forgiveness, which made all my bitterness and resentments completely insignificant. Within their own instrumental sphere of patience, wisdom and spiritual enrichment, these Saints of God entered my life in what can only be described as a welcomed sweet smelling gentle mist, as their presence continues to embrace the depths of my very soul.
Reviews:
"My greatest sense of contribution and fufillment has been in the fact that somehow from my unbelievable struggles, all those that have thus far read No obstacle too great, as seen by the inspiring testimonials have felt it's impact, which in some way has made a difference in their lives..."
I just finished your book,No Obstacle Too Great.Thanks again for the signed copy of the book-Adrienne and I were thrilled to receive it. Here is a copy of my review:
Reading Mino Pavlic's memoir. No Obstacle Too Great, I felt like a voyeur watching a man's life unfold. Beginning with his childhood and adolescence moving across countries and between continents, then continuing through his adult years spent in and out of prison, and struggling with addiction, and finally finishing with his recent struggles to turn his life around. Mino gives the reader a sense of his life's history through detailed vignettes.For those of us who are unfamiliar with the world of crime, incarceration, and hard-core drug addiction,No Obstacle Too Great, provides a poignant picture of a life very different from our own. The memoir reveals a man moving from living in the moment to contemplating his past, present, and future. The content is complelling,but so too is the writing; that someone who has gone through so much pain could write so freely about it.The book is a window through which the process of one man's change and development is revealed.
No Obstacle Too Great allows the reader a glimpse into the author's life and a world many of us choose to ignore, and into how life is lived more fully through reflection and connection.
Nicole Bermbach,M.A.,C.C.C.
Research coordinator
BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS Canadian clinical Trials Network
5th Floor,ST.Paul's Hospital
Vancouver,British Columbia,Canada.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------I could not put the book down. I was mesmerized. I have never read a book where the author does not make excuses or shift blame for criminal behaviors that led to many times behind bars. He led a bad life and does not try to say it was his upbringing or other factors. He takes responsibility for his own actions.It is up front and says it exactly as it was. I would recommend this book be required reading in every single school and library for children everywhere to read and serve as an example to save many of them from going down the wrong road. It proves that no matter how bad a person is,he can change if he really puts his mind to it and realizes what his actions has caused. In this case the result is very sad but it is good that it is not the end result. I really enjoyed this book and read it twice already and plan to read it some more.
Rose Fromenthal.Morgan City,Louisianna,U.S.A
I am very impressed by how the author has written his story and it makes you feel as if you are right there reliving his experiences. It is the reality of what life of crime is truly all about and the consequences that he himself is paying dearly for by being HIV positive from drug use. Today this would be perfect book for kids to show them that what they may think as cool and tough behavior with friends may end in fatal consequences. If he can save one kid I think this book is worth to share. He is living proof that a person can reverse a path of crime and instead of leaving a legacy of violence can leave a legacy of peace. He is not afraid to renounce the violent life he led publicly and he lets others see where such a life leads and it is not a pretty picture. His story reaches out and grips you in a way that you never forget. He should be honored for his courage to speak out against the way of life that he led for most of his life. He can be used as an example for anybody that has problems that they feel they cant overcome. He shows that anything is possible.
Caitlan Singetary.Morgan City,Louisianna.U.S.A.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
To Whom It May Concern
Re: Mino Pavlic
In the Spring of 2005 Mr. Pavlic addressed my Criminology 12 class at Mission Secondary. For an hour Mino wound through his personal story of choices and consequences, drug addiction and crime, failure and success and then answered difficult questions with candor and sincerity. I was pleased my students had the opportunity to share his experiences and hear his message. Mino puts a face to the dark stranger, the East End addict, the H.I.V. infected patient facing and struggling with the results of his choices. He offers himself as an example and speaks with passion against substance abuse of all kinds. He does not minimize the small steps in the beginning, but links each step, each choice, to outcomes and possible tragedy. He is an effective anti-drug spokesperson.
Mino's message is also about hope, the will to succeed, and the ability to meet challenges. No Obstacle Too Great contains an important message and is a message of what can be achieved if one has the will and confidence. The writing of the book stands as an example to young adults facing graduation and wondering if they are capable of fulfilling their dreams. I am pleased to support Mino's quest to tell his story. He is passionate about helping others and I believe he has a significant contribution to make.
Yours truly,
Abrams
Teacher
-------------------------------------
Comments from John Howard Society
Thanks again for coming over and sharing your experience, strength and hope. Heres a snapshot of staff comments and a few other observations. There is no judgement here, only open and honest observations.
Reliable
Real
Focused
Honest
Appropriate language
Outstanding potential
We are genuinely impressed with your courage and desire to help others. We have respect for what you have achieved in putting your past in the past. As for your relationship with the Nanaimo Region John Howard Society, please be assured that we consider ourselves as equals as we, too, are not perfect and are still growing. We feel in terms of public speaking that you are kind of like a diamond in the rough. Our recommendation is to come over and hear one of our more experienced speakers with the door left open for further discussions. It is important that you hear that we want to continue the relationship.
Nanaimo Region John Howard Society, British Columbia, Canada
-------------------------------------
"I would never have believed that any normal man could have endured such hardship in his life, and yet, make such a turn around. "
Rebecca L-A Cadger, Security, Douglas College
-------------------------------------
"It is well written, with humor mixed with passion and very factual. The prison system certainly is an eye opener and I think this book would be good for all youngsters in this day and time to read this book is evident that Mino Pavlic has tremendous perseverance. He never gives up, no matter how many times he is knocked down, he continues to pick himself up and he doesn't stop until he gets it right."
Doreen Kreschuk, Groupwise, Douglas College, British Columbia Canada.
-------------------------------------------------------
"I don't know how you survived, but you did and I'm grateful that this book came out of all your trials and tribulations. Anyone who believes they are struggling against the odds in whatever circumstances can gain inspiration from your story." Chris Gibson, Dept;of student development. Douglas College. New Westminister, British Columbia, Canada.
------------------------------
"Remarkable story of great courage, determination, fortitude and endurance of spirit against seemingly insurmountable odds. An epic human story in a rapidly changing social environment."
Doctor Webb, Helen Anna and Marilyn
-------------------------------------
I have been a member of Fanstory.com for a number of years. It's a site composed of writers from around the world. To date I have over 500 inspirational reviews in regards to all of my writing, and I humbly share the following ones:
Swagman wrote,
You write about having a future purpose for your life and dealing with past atrocities, I can relate to both. I often wonder for what purpose God saved my life after suffering from years of mental and emotional abuse and depression, after surviving a breakdown. I discovered what I thought that purpose was several years ago and it's a revelation I wasn't ready for. You have an undeniably powerful testimony to share.
Comment Written 31-Jul-2006
----------------------------
kintesiegel wrote,
This is very powerful writing. It makes me sick to think of all the things that you have experienced and gotten involved in. You describe a hard road but then I see that writing is your salvation. Keep it up.
Comment Written 30-Jul-2006
-------------------------
Raquelle wrote,
You know, no_obstacle, as I read your book I can see a very strong and determined man. The trials and tribulations you have gone thru, some men, would never have been able to handle it. With the strength and wisdom God has given you, you ARE going to beat this disease. Good Luck in your journey for a full recovery. My prayers are with you.
Comment Written 09-Jun-2006
---------------------------------------------
richie m wrote,
LIFE IS BASICALLY A JOURNEY HOME--PURE AND SIMPLE! HOW WE COMPLETE THAT JOURNEY AND WHO WE IMPACT WITH ALONG THE WAY IS UP TO US.SOME OF US LIVE MORE THAN 100 YEARS AND EXPIRE PRETTY MUCH WITHOUT A RIPPLE, WHILE OTHERS HAVE A MUCH SHORTER SPAN --FACE HUGE OBSTACLES-- AND INSPIRE GENERATIONS.
THANKS FOR YOUR INSPIRATION!
------------------------------------------------------
Adora Bayles wrote,
Dear No Obstacle: Your wonderful story ought to be told to the whole world. You write well and the story is truly compelling. I wouldn't change a thing. Thank you for the insight.
Adora
Comment Written 29-Apr-2006
-------------------------
kkholder wrote,
First of all, I want you to know that I will not read too many book chapters... I feel unworthy jumping in the middle, so to speak. I was drawn to read this one. I am glad I did. All alone, it stands. It can be its own essay... and a good one. yes, it need a little tightening, but that is not a problem here... people can help with that. This is very unique. very wonderful. I work with kids who are ready for this type of life... this type of hell... you have presented it fairly... like.. you said... it becomes the end result of life. Yet you still try and try and try to escape. That is the nature of man. We are called by God to freedom. May I use a few sentences from this chapter when I talk to "my" kids.... like this one:
I don't care who you are, or how tough you think you are. Never disillusion yourself; prison will emotionally, physically and mentally cripple you in ways unimaginable. I've seen and participated in countless acts of barbaric violence, I did this without regret or even a hint of remorse. Just as you would cover an innocent baby in its crib with a blanket, to embrace it in its warmness. So too was the environment of prison embracing me in its own blanket.
You are on your way to the Light... to the Truth... I can feel it.
Comment Written 28-Apr-2006.
As I said I'm still writing books which are just a continuation to an unimainable yet extraordinary life, which with every new page leaves your head spinning like a top
I now know that throughout my severest trials, and the greatest storms of my weathered life, it was God alone who had within those storms, been my life preserver. If only we could truly see and envision that those night and differences throughout our lives, could in fact be those cross-roads within their own mythical nature, where our physical world and the spiritual one meet. It's within this interpretation, that this book is dedicated to the Everlasting Glory of God...
I wish to extend prayers of deep and eternal gratitude to my best friend Bonnie Wilson, whom by the grace of God has been one of the greatest night and day, differences in my life. Without her influential encouragement and spiritual guidance, I would still be walking about aimlessly lost. Her unwavering loyalty of friendship, gives this word within her graceful elegance, a divine definition all of its own. She has truly left an everlasting trail of footprints, engraved deep within my heart...At times it seemed like she had called in her own personal excavation crew, as together we sat within countless hours, while in reflection of my weathered life, and searched the very depths of my tortured soul. I' m not sure how it happened, but she had melted the coldness that for so long had imprisoned my heart, and once she had peeled away all the calloused layers, mystically like on the wings of a dove while at the altar with me, gave it to God. If there were no tomorrow, I would want her to always know that I consider her friendship, after our Lord Jesus, the greatest gift of my life.
Also a great thanks to Pastor David Jobson, for he had made it perfectly clear to me that within any church, membership was never meant to be, nor should it ever be, a prerequisite in the path of baptism. His passion alone was in my desire to be baptized in the name of Jesus. Ministries around the world should grasp the significance within these words of wisdom." Anyone whose heart has finally opened, expressing a desire for baptism, which may in and of itself have arose from within, but a moment of Divine Revelation. Therefore God's servants should clearly understand the importance and careful attention now necessary which is greatly dependant upon their unwavering faithfulness. For it's within this leap of faith that any hesitation, unwillingness, or the slightest inattention and neglect within the significance of baptism, will all weigh heavily on the balancing scale towards a successful conversion."
My deepest appreciation and respect is given to the widely recognized Pastor Paul Reynolds, Bishop of the Emmanuel Pentecostal Church, here in British Columbia, Canada. It was in listening to his message." It's the second birth that counts" that for the first time in forty years, I was truly able to grasp the uniqueness of forgiveness, which made all my bitterness and resentments completely insignificant. Within their own instrumental sphere of patience, wisdom and spiritual enrichment, these Saints of God entered my life in what can only be described as a welcomed sweet smelling gentle mist, as their presence continues to embrace the depths of my very soul.
Reviews:
"My greatest sense of contribution and fufillment has been in the fact that somehow from my unbelievable struggles, all those that have thus far read No obstacle too great, as seen by the inspiring testimonials have felt it's impact, which in some way has made a difference in their lives..."
I just finished your book,No Obstacle Too Great.Thanks again for the signed copy of the book-Adrienne and I were thrilled to receive it. Here is a copy of my review:
Reading Mino Pavlic's memoir. No Obstacle Too Great, I felt like a voyeur watching a man's life unfold. Beginning with his childhood and adolescence moving across countries and between continents, then continuing through his adult years spent in and out of prison, and struggling with addiction, and finally finishing with his recent struggles to turn his life around. Mino gives the reader a sense of his life's history through detailed vignettes.For those of us who are unfamiliar with the world of crime, incarceration, and hard-core drug addiction,No Obstacle Too Great, provides a poignant picture of a life very different from our own. The memoir reveals a man moving from living in the moment to contemplating his past, present, and future. The content is complelling,but so too is the writing; that someone who has gone through so much pain could write so freely about it.The book is a window through which the process of one man's change and development is revealed.
No Obstacle Too Great allows the reader a glimpse into the author's life and a world many of us choose to ignore, and into how life is lived more fully through reflection and connection.
Nicole Bermbach,M.A.,C.C.C.
Research coordinator
BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS Canadian clinical Trials Network
5th Floor,ST.Paul's Hospital
Vancouver,British Columbia,Canada.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------I could not put the book down. I was mesmerized. I have never read a book where the author does not make excuses or shift blame for criminal behaviors that led to many times behind bars. He led a bad life and does not try to say it was his upbringing or other factors. He takes responsibility for his own actions.It is up front and says it exactly as it was. I would recommend this book be required reading in every single school and library for children everywhere to read and serve as an example to save many of them from going down the wrong road. It proves that no matter how bad a person is,he can change if he really puts his mind to it and realizes what his actions has caused. In this case the result is very sad but it is good that it is not the end result. I really enjoyed this book and read it twice already and plan to read it some more.
Rose Fromenthal.Morgan City,Louisianna,U.S.A
I am very impressed by how the author has written his story and it makes you feel as if you are right there reliving his experiences. It is the reality of what life of crime is truly all about and the consequences that he himself is paying dearly for by being HIV positive from drug use. Today this would be perfect book for kids to show them that what they may think as cool and tough behavior with friends may end in fatal consequences. If he can save one kid I think this book is worth to share. He is living proof that a person can reverse a path of crime and instead of leaving a legacy of violence can leave a legacy of peace. He is not afraid to renounce the violent life he led publicly and he lets others see where such a life leads and it is not a pretty picture. His story reaches out and grips you in a way that you never forget. He should be honored for his courage to speak out against the way of life that he led for most of his life. He can be used as an example for anybody that has problems that they feel they cant overcome. He shows that anything is possible.
Caitlan Singetary.Morgan City,Louisianna.U.S.A.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
To Whom It May Concern
Re: Mino Pavlic
In the Spring of 2005 Mr. Pavlic addressed my Criminology 12 class at Mission Secondary. For an hour Mino wound through his personal story of choices and consequences, drug addiction and crime, failure and success and then answered difficult questions with candor and sincerity. I was pleased my students had the opportunity to share his experiences and hear his message. Mino puts a face to the dark stranger, the East End addict, the H.I.V. infected patient facing and struggling with the results of his choices. He offers himself as an example and speaks with passion against substance abuse of all kinds. He does not minimize the small steps in the beginning, but links each step, each choice, to outcomes and possible tragedy. He is an effective anti-drug spokesperson.
Mino's message is also about hope, the will to succeed, and the ability to meet challenges. No Obstacle Too Great contains an important message and is a message of what can be achieved if one has the will and confidence. The writing of the book stands as an example to young adults facing graduation and wondering if they are capable of fulfilling their dreams. I am pleased to support Mino's quest to tell his story. He is passionate about helping others and I believe he has a significant contribution to make.
Yours truly,
Abrams
Teacher
-------------------------------------
Comments from John Howard Society
Thanks again for coming over and sharing your experience, strength and hope. Heres a snapshot of staff comments and a few other observations. There is no judgement here, only open and honest observations.
Reliable
Real
Focused
Honest
Appropriate language
Outstanding potential
We are genuinely impressed with your courage and desire to help others. We have respect for what you have achieved in putting your past in the past. As for your relationship with the Nanaimo Region John Howard Society, please be assured that we consider ourselves as equals as we, too, are not perfect and are still growing. We feel in terms of public speaking that you are kind of like a diamond in the rough. Our recommendation is to come over and hear one of our more experienced speakers with the door left open for further discussions. It is important that you hear that we want to continue the relationship.
Nanaimo Region John Howard Society, British Columbia, Canada
-------------------------------------
"I would never have believed that any normal man could have endured such hardship in his life, and yet, make such a turn around. "
Rebecca L-A Cadger, Security, Douglas College
-------------------------------------
"It is well written, with humor mixed with passion and very factual. The prison system certainly is an eye opener and I think this book would be good for all youngsters in this day and time to read this book is evident that Mino Pavlic has tremendous perseverance. He never gives up, no matter how many times he is knocked down, he continues to pick himself up and he doesn't stop until he gets it right."
Doreen Kreschuk, Groupwise, Douglas College, British Columbia Canada.
-------------------------------------------------------
"I don't know how you survived, but you did and I'm grateful that this book came out of all your trials and tribulations. Anyone who believes they are struggling against the odds in whatever circumstances can gain inspiration from your story." Chris Gibson, Dept;of student development. Douglas College. New Westminister, British Columbia, Canada.
------------------------------
"Remarkable story of great courage, determination, fortitude and endurance of spirit against seemingly insurmountable odds. An epic human story in a rapidly changing social environment."
Doctor Webb, Helen Anna and Marilyn
-------------------------------------
I have been a member of Fanstory.com for a number of years. It's a site composed of writers from around the world. To date I have over 500 inspirational reviews in regards to all of my writing, and I humbly share the following ones:
Swagman wrote,
You write about having a future purpose for your life and dealing with past atrocities, I can relate to both. I often wonder for what purpose God saved my life after suffering from years of mental and emotional abuse and depression, after surviving a breakdown. I discovered what I thought that purpose was several years ago and it's a revelation I wasn't ready for. You have an undeniably powerful testimony to share.
Comment Written 31-Jul-2006
----------------------------
kintesiegel wrote,
This is very powerful writing. It makes me sick to think of all the things that you have experienced and gotten involved in. You describe a hard road but then I see that writing is your salvation. Keep it up.
Comment Written 30-Jul-2006
-------------------------
Raquelle wrote,
You know, no_obstacle, as I read your book I can see a very strong and determined man. The trials and tribulations you have gone thru, some men, would never have been able to handle it. With the strength and wisdom God has given you, you ARE going to beat this disease. Good Luck in your journey for a full recovery. My prayers are with you.
Comment Written 09-Jun-2006
---------------------------------------------
richie m wrote,
LIFE IS BASICALLY A JOURNEY HOME--PURE AND SIMPLE! HOW WE COMPLETE THAT JOURNEY AND WHO WE IMPACT WITH ALONG THE WAY IS UP TO US.SOME OF US LIVE MORE THAN 100 YEARS AND EXPIRE PRETTY MUCH WITHOUT A RIPPLE, WHILE OTHERS HAVE A MUCH SHORTER SPAN --FACE HUGE OBSTACLES-- AND INSPIRE GENERATIONS.
THANKS FOR YOUR INSPIRATION!
------------------------------------------------------
Adora Bayles wrote,
Dear No Obstacle: Your wonderful story ought to be told to the whole world. You write well and the story is truly compelling. I wouldn't change a thing. Thank you for the insight.
Adora
Comment Written 29-Apr-2006
-------------------------
kkholder wrote,
First of all, I want you to know that I will not read too many book chapters... I feel unworthy jumping in the middle, so to speak. I was drawn to read this one. I am glad I did. All alone, it stands. It can be its own essay... and a good one. yes, it need a little tightening, but that is not a problem here... people can help with that. This is very unique. very wonderful. I work with kids who are ready for this type of life... this type of hell... you have presented it fairly... like.. you said... it becomes the end result of life. Yet you still try and try and try to escape. That is the nature of man. We are called by God to freedom. May I use a few sentences from this chapter when I talk to "my" kids.... like this one:
I don't care who you are, or how tough you think you are. Never disillusion yourself; prison will emotionally, physically and mentally cripple you in ways unimaginable. I've seen and participated in countless acts of barbaric violence, I did this without regret or even a hint of remorse. Just as you would cover an innocent baby in its crib with a blanket, to embrace it in its warmness. So too was the environment of prison embracing me in its own blanket.
You are on your way to the Light... to the Truth... I can feel it.
Comment Written 28-Apr-2006.
As I said I'm still writing books which are just a continuation to an unimainable yet extraordinary life, which with every new page leaves your head spinning like a top
