Deadly Dilemma: A Memoir

Are those moments of victory, success, and happiness sufficient in number, scope, and magnitude to outweigh the failures, disappointments, fear, and isolation that often color life's landscape?

In Deadly Dilemma, Anthony takes you on a journey of remembrance and reflection. Everyone has a story. Sometimes, we need a nudge to revisit our stories and confront the experiences that have shaped our lives.

Anthony is not famous. He is not a celebrity, an athlete, or a politician. He's an ordinary guy with a story to tell, asking that bigger question about life. He grew up in a small town in eastern North Carolina. A stellar student, he enrolled in college, where it took him ten years to get a four-year degree. He got married, started raising a family, and embarked on a lifelong career working with college students and mentors.

Anthony has battled poor self-image and lack of self-esteem all his life. His daddy told him to "Get out of the way. I can't see through muddy water" and "Don't ask me for a damn thing." Those words have haunted him as he struggled to value his own self-worth.

As a college counselor, Anthony's advice to young people reflects his life experience:

Friends- choose them carefully, and cultivate

Choices- make them wisely, and learn

Consequences- embrace them graciously, and move on.

"In a world where many who state their faith seem focused on 'looking' perfect, Anthony simply shares his life's highs and lows (and reflections). This book is relatable, surprising, inspiring, shocking, and believable."

- Chris Arline, Guilford College '95

"The 'Deadly Dilemma' is real to all of us, and I stand with you, Anthony, in the eternal street fight to live an authentic life."

- Jeff Thigpen, author of On Point: Voices and Values of Young Elected Officials