Divinely Inspired truly exemplifies the "spiritual awakening of a soul," as the book’s cover asserts. Dr. Jerry J. Pollock’s tale of his heart-wrenching journey is at times poignant and even painful to read. A childhood that can only be described as dysfunctional with a sadistic father and a well-meaning if ineffectual mother leads to serious health problems, the symptoms of which include low self-esteem, irrational behavior, self-destructive tendencies, and physical illnesses that all stem from his bi-polar disorder (formerly referred to as manic depression).
Some readers may be uncomfortable with the religious ideas presented here, but keep in mind that the good doctor is courageously relating the methods he used to conquer his condition. He does an excellent job of presenting what worked for him, not as a commandment that all others should follow exactly, but as a gentle yet firm suggestion that each bipolar patient can benefit from in-depth exploration of their particular religion.
The devilish paths his childhood demons led him on are painstakingly described in vivid detail so that the reader cringes when Pollock explains what happened. For those who are not familiar with bipolar disorder, this book is a real eye-opener. With this knowledge firmly in hand, readers should never look at the mentally ill in the same dismissive way. The fortitude and accomplishments of the author cannot help but move the reader..
Divinely Inspired gives the reader a frightening glimpse inside the veiled world of mental illness. While not a pleasant thing to view, this unflinching look provides comfort to those so afflicted, knowledge to those not afflicted, and -- hopefully -- better understanding to all.