A Million Miles in a Thousand Years reads to me like a very long journal entry–a stream of consciousness, almost, that refreshes because of it’s honesty. Donald Miller writes in reflection of his “story” process, brought to light by the opportunity to re-write his personal story for the big screen. As Miller realizes that he can effectively edit his life into a new version, he also acknowledges the greater lessons he has learned by living the life he’s already (and actually) lived–then guides as to how one might extract more meaningful “life” in the future.

I love that Miller recognizes the story in every one of us, and I particularly appreciate his candid, casual candor throughout. Miller writes in a way that makes you feel human; makes you feel like the air you breath and the laundry you’ve just finished might actually mean something you can’t yet see, but that the memorable accolades of yesteryear may not have defined us for eternity the way we once thought they did. The basic structure of a good story, Miller reflects, is “a character who wants something and overcomes conflict to get it.” This interpretation gives me hope. I’ve not met a single person who didn’t want something, then seeking to overcome an obstacle to get to where they wanted to be. This translates to me in a very tangible way. It speaks life into each of our unique stories and spurs us on, hopefully to pursue the greatness of God’s design for our lives, and the Kingdom that awaits us–welcoming our stories and our light.

A Million Miles in a Thousand Years was reviewed in connection with Thomas Nelson’s Book Review Blogger Program