I Choose Happy

"I am ninety-nine years old, feeling good and I am on a roll," Wayne Williams loved to say. When people asked him for his secret, he said: "Each morning when I start a new day, I have a choice. I can choose to be either happy or unhappy. Every day, I choose happy." 

I Choose Happy is Wayne's invitation to you to join him as he shares with you his joyful spirit, upbeat personality and love for life. This incredible book reveals Wayne's tips for better living and explains how you too can "choose happy."

Wayne loved people. As he approached the end of his century-long life he said, "I am determined to make a difference in the time I have left. I want to do as much good as I can." This extraordinary book is his last gift to the world. Wayne broke his life into short chapters and spent months sorting through boxes of old photographs. Many people who Wayne had befriended and loved through the years helped him happily with proofreading, fact checking and technical guidance.

The result is a charming, remarkable book-richly illustrated with photos-full of Wayne's poignant, humorous memories and life lessons. Wayne writes about his childhood during the Dust Bowl days in the Texas panhandle, growing up as a preacher's son among cherished siblings, WWII service, and his life as an airplane builder, private pilot, home builder and church leader. He delighted in more than seventy years of marriage to his childhood sweetheart, Rosie, and the lives of their children. Wayne's memories are personal and unique, but each chapter ends with insights that are universal and timeless. Wayne wanted his example and attitude to help his readers. He wanted not to simply tell about his life but to teach people how they too can live happier and better.

Throughout this book, Wayne's spirit shines through. More than merely being content to share memories and name friends, Wayne shares his exuberant gratitude and wonder at how God has worked though his life. He looks back with joy and looks forward with a youthful eagerness to pass on the wisdom that life taught him. 

Completed a few days before he died peacefully at age ninety-nine, only days short of his centennial birthday, this book succeeds in sharing Wayne's enthusiasm for life. His remarkable ability to have fun with people, make friends and stay in touch with them exposes itself on every page. Wayne was a simple man who was devoted to his family, friends and faith, dogged about his passions and determined to do good in the world.

 The book's title summarizes Wayne's attitude. Rather than brooding upon his struggles, sorrows or setbacks, Williams purposefully began each day by focusing upon his blessings, successes and opportunities. Wayne ends his book by sharing what he called his Mission Statement and Philosophy for His Life and by encouraging his readers to follow his examp...