The Stroke of Grace

Book excerpt: The Stroke of Grace was written to provide an up-close and personal look into the life of one of the most unique young men I have ever had the pleasure of getting to know. I believe, as others do, that perseverance definitely describes Juaquin Hawkins, who overcame unique obstacles that have inspired, and are still inspiring, many people. When you combine the different challenges he overcame, with the strong determination he displayed-anchored in a deep-rooted spirituality passed down to him from his Grandma Tweet-you have the making of a story that is both inspirational and motivational. This book is written in a format that is slightly different from most autobiographies. We wanted you to be the proverbial fly on the wall during some of these crucial moments in his life. Juaquins journey includes trauma, triumphs, and testimony that describe overcoming challenges to making it to the top of his profession in the National Basketball Association (NBA) and beyond. Although reaching the NBA was satisfying and significant to him, the work that Juaquin has done post-NBA and post-stroke will likely have a more lasting impact and leave an enduring legacy as he constantly strives to satisfy his God-given plan and purpose.