In Memory of Shon Harris

In the previous edition, I spoke in memory of Shon Harris, my friend, mentor, and a person I credit with jump-starting my career after my time in the Marine Corps. Simply put, neither this book nor most of my professional accomplishments would have happened without her. I continue to miss her and I know I speak on behalf of the other authors that we wish she were still with us. If you did not know Shon or have never heard of her, you owe it to yourself to learn about her inspiring story in the last edition and elsewhere. For those of us who knew her and have our own “Shon” stories, join me in keeping her memory alive and share her story with anyone who will listen. She was an amazing person and is loved and missed dearly. We dedicate this book to her memory.

—Allen Harper

Lead author and friend of Shon Harris

To my brothers and sisters in Christ, keep running the race. Let your light shine for Him, that others may be drawn to Him through you.

—Allen Harper

Dedicado a ti mamita Adelina Arias Cruz, cuando me pregunto de donde sale mi garra de no dejarme de nadie o el sacrificio incansable para conseguir mis metas, solo tengo que voltear a verte, para ti no hay imposibles, te adoro!

—Daniel Regalado

To Mom, who read to me when I was little, so I could achieve the level of literacy I needed to become an author one day.

—Ryan Linn

To my lovely wife LeAnne and my daughter Audrey, thank you for your ongoing support!

—Stephen Sims

To my lovely daughter Elysia, thank you for your unconditional love and support. You inspire me in so many ways. I am, and will always be, your biggest fan.

—Linda Martinez

To my family and friends for their unconditional support and making this life funny and interesting.

—Branko Spasojevic

To my daughter Tiernan, thank you for your support and continuous reminders to enjoy life and learning each and every day. I look forward to seeing the wonderful woman you will become.

—Michael Baucom

To my son Aaron, thanks for all your love while I spend too much time at the keyboard, and thanks for sharing your joy on all the projects we work on together.

—Chris Eagle