When Winning Meant Losing

Book excerpt: Jerome Murray was an ordinary man, ordinary throughout his childhood, ordinary for the better part of his adult life. He would not have considered the adjective as disparaging if used to describe him; he liked being ordinary. Then, one day, Jerome Murray wins the California State Lottery, and his life would never be ordinary again. For a brief period, he, his wife, and daughter enjoy their newfound wealth, marveling at the things it allows them to accomplish, not only for themselves, but for their family, friends, and even strangers who need their help. Then, something tragic happens that changes the course of Jerome's life forever. While his friends are somewhat successful, after much prolonged effort, in bringing him back from the edge of destruction, he finds it challenging to move on. Jerome's wealth and the consequent powerful freedom it bestows upon him, make it possible for him to pursue avenues that are extraordinary by any sane person's understanding of the word. The power of his wealth not only brings him to the brink of self-destruction, but it also allows him the complete freedom to go beyond it.