About this book

This reader is an international collection of unique voices testifying about their personal struggles. These individuals speak not only from different parts of the globe, but also from distinct societal sectors: corporate, law enforcement, religious, academic, military, and the arts. In the process of facing fears and in the attempt to overcoming personal "mountains" we find profiles of vital human characteristics that spell either doom or survival. How we survive, with or without dignity, is a driving force that unites men and women universally. This book serves as a discussion tool, and also is a resource reference guide for those desiring to make further lasting contact across cultures.

About the author

With over thirty years of teaching college students to deal with "communication anxiety" and enjoying rewards from building cultural bridges in different arenas, the author seeks to extend this success-oriented recipe to non-academics, the average "working-class" citizen who wants to pursue social harmony.

Although having authored other books, and currently involved in juried photo exhibitions internationally, climbing six volcanoes in Central America is one of his most difficult accomplishments, and these pursuits have taught him much about himself as he continues to "learn from people everywhere!"


What they're saying about Aaron Anthony Vessup

"We, the Black Student Association of Elgin Community College, appreciate Professor Aaron Vessup for providing years of teaching, mentoring, and advising; for uplifting the African American race both in the U.S. and abroad; and for always being there for all students."

— Black Student Association (BSA)
Elgin Community College

"'Whereas Professor Vessup has exemplified professional and personal integrity as Professor of Speech, earning the highest respect and regard of his colleagues through his passion to promote international awareness; and Whereas, Professor Vessup has earned many honors from his colleagues and many students who have benefited from his teaching and counseling, be it resolved that Aaron Vessup is granted status of Professor Emeritus from this institution."

— Board of Trustees of Community College District 509
State of Illinois
[2002]

Social Community Sectors

• Growing Up With An Accent, Baheej Kahlief
• New On the Block, Old Fears Rock, J.Q. Adams
• Going Back Home, Kadi Doubambudia
• Path to Parenthood in Invisible China, Mikayla Tian
• Jogging Memories, Susan Mayer
• Sexual Intimacy: Tensions Across Cultures, Waverly Johnson
• Issues In Sexual Orientation, Alex Shapiro

Corporate Business Sectors

• My Life In Cuban Paradise, Vincent Alamar
• "We Got Trouble!" A Decisive Moment, Laurel Church
• Gender Roles and Race on the Job, Wenona Jones
• Intercultural Communication Roadblocks, Eve Cappello

Law Enforcement Sectors

• "I Am the Law!" Aaron Vessup Interviews
• From Silver Bullets to Synergy, Hanni Taylor
• Black and Blue Law, Detective Henry Smith

Religion Sectors

• Fear of Violence and A Clashing of Values, Arun Gandhi
• Angst from Pulpits to Pews, Brossier and Whiting
• Towards A Wholistic Spirit, Darlena Lake

Education and Media Sectors

• Aboriginal Issues: Racism and Tribal Survival, Beatrice Medicine
• Apartheid In Public School Personnel Behaviors, Jaime Castellano
• Stalking Terrorism In American Education: The Final Straw, Aaron Vessup