Gratitude Focus: Today I’m grateful and deeply moved

Today I’m grateful, and deeply moved, as I approach the completion of the children’s version of Twice Over a Man.

Reflection/Why I’m Grateful:

The working title, More Than a Conqueror, was suggested by my publisher after the first round of edits. I’m preparing to deliver the next round this week, and I’ve made several adjustments to make the story more accessible for young readers—targeting ages 11 to 18.

This version carries the same timeless principles as Twice Over a Man: changing the way we think, focusing on what’s within our control, and surrounding ourselves with the right people. But this time, I’m speaking directly to the next generation—through language and stories they can truly see themselves in. I’ve stripped away some of the historical references and leaned more into storytelling. I can still hear my editor reminding me, “Show, don’t tell,” and I’ve worked hard to bring that to life.

I’ve dedicated this new version to my brother, Cornelius, who passed away earlier this year. He was shot when he was just 17 years old. As I work through each edit, I’m thinking of him—of who he was and who he could have become. This book is, in many ways, a tribute to him and to every young person who deserves a chance to rise above what tried to break them.

Several schools have already reached out, inviting me to speak with their students, and that gives me hope. I believe this book will be a powerful tool to help young people—create the conditions for thriving.

 “In all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.”
— Romans 8:37

Who are you carrying in your work, whose story or memory inspires you to help others rise?

Question for Reflection

 

Hi, I’m Orvin Kimbrough, volunteer, board director, chairman, and CEO. I help professionals move from feeling stuck to being strengthened by reshaping how they think, lead, and live. My work focuses on confidence, leadership, and influence through mindset shifts, expanded networks, and bold, values-aligned action. My perspective is rooted in lived experience, from growing up in foster care to leading complex institutions as a CEO and shaped by faith, resilience, and a deep belief in human potential.

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Books for Every Stage

Twice Over a Man

A memoir often described as a leadership guide wrapped in an honest, relatable story of perseverance, healing, and growth. It explores how pain can be reframed into purpose and how ordinary people build meaningful lives through courage and clarity.

More Than a Conqueror

Written for teens and young adults, this book encourages confidence, resilience, and identity formation during the years when self-belief is being shaped.

Ward and the State

A children’s book that gently introduces big ideas like belonging, courage, and hope, helping young readers see themselves as more than their circumstances

INTRODUCING: The Thriver’s Path™

This blog is part of The Thriver’s Path™—a growing ecosystem of writing, courses, reflections, and community designed to help people of all ages reframe their thinking, reclaim their agency, and take their next meaningful move.

→ Ready for your next move?

Explore more writings, resources, and ways to engage at orvinkimbrough.com, or join the conversation inside the Thrivers Club™ community.

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Tags: Gratitude