In a world where young people are always looking for something that always appears just out of their grasp, Anaiah Kirk has managed to deliver a book, a message, a life that cuts through all the fluff and glamour and reaches into the heart of the youth. In a simple yet profound way, Anaiah displays his life in complete transparency to the reader. Unafraid and unassuming, this book will find its way into many of the hearts and minds of the young people of this world by leading them down a life path that although filled with pitfalls and confusion, yet this life story offers hope and clarity along the journey.
And what a journey it is. The reader will feel at times like they are on a rollercoaster ride of life yet it is a ride that many young people embark upon in a variety of ways. In the end, this book will deliver you safely to a place that you really wanted to be at all along and leave you with an anticipation of what is to come and how the next ride is going to be.
I would strongly recommend this book to all young people who are searching for hope, truth, love and real walk with the Lord.
Bob Wilk, Dean of school of ministry at Word Of Life Fellowship
Anaiah’s story is an encouraging an exciting story reminding us that God both works in mysterious ways and always has a plan. After reading The Life I Always Wanted I found a deep motivation to read the Bible and spend time in prayer, something I have struggled with for many years. Like Anaiah, I too want to have a closer relationship with God, know what His will is for my life and hear him speak to me.
Benjamin Willemssen (age 21)
I have the distinct privilege of knowing the author for several years. This book, detailing his life story, is of a young man who seemingly had everything, only to find his life spiraling out of control. Like many of the young men I have mentored for years, he eventually “hit bottom” and turned to God out of desperation. His life story is compelling and gripping. Like me, you will relate to many of his experiences.
“The Lord had given me a second chance. He’d healed areas of my heart that were so scarred I didn’t even realize they were wounded. He restored relationships and gave me the ability to trust and love again.” This quote from his book is a clear summary of his life, and the compelling reason he writes his story for us to read. As you read his life story, a multitude of emotions may rise up within you. Will you, like Anaiah, find the courage to turn those emotions to God. I challenge you to read his story completely, and then follow the advice he offers.
Bob Lane, International Youth Speaker & Principal at Christian Academy, Collinsville (IL)
I really enjoyed this book; I want to read it again. It got my attention and made me want to be a better person. Before I read the book, I thought I would want to experience the lifestyle that Anaiah lived before he starting to live for God, Now I can see that path does not lead to fulfillment in life.
Elijah Flores, (age 15)
This book is required reading for every young man (or woman) who has ever struggled to understand their destiny, hopes and dreams. You will discover God’s love, Man’s love and how they fit together.
John Pradenas, Youth Pastor



Anaiah You are a blessed man to share with us all your struggles and how God lead you to victory. Thanks for your openess.
How refreshing, I purchased for Kendal app on my iPhone. I was able to enjoy at my leasure. I thoroughly enjoyed your book. It brought hope to my heart for our children. You made the realization that God is so real, amazing, and cares about every detail of our lives. How you found that Jesus was more than enough encouraged me. The book captivated me from begining to end, that I’m purchasing a copy for my son, well done.
A rolling stone is worth two in the bush, thanks to this artclie.
Awesome Don. Has your son read the book? If so, what was his response?
“The Life I Always Wanted” offers an honest look at the realities of life and how the Lord can guide those who will trust Him into a deep and personal relationship with Him. Anaiah’s words are encouraging, full of wisdom, and annointed. Get his book and read it. It WILL impact your life!
Thank you for the post! So glad to hear the impact.
Truly an amazing book! This book has helped re-kindle my flame for sure. As a father of older teenage kids, I am excited to hear what they think once they finish this book (all three of them). There are things in this book my wife and I have already discussed these type of situations with them, however to hear these things from an ex-professional athlete vs. they’re own parent. This is what will grab them inside and allow God to work through this book and change them forever! Thanks BROTHER!!! FishMan
Dave, what were some of the situations you were going to talk about with your wife and children?
Have they read the book? What was there response?
I’m so glad God brought me across your book. I was determined to finish it, and I finished it in a day. I literally couldn’t put it down. Reading your story and living vicariously through your book really hit home. My heart started to change this summer, but life can get in the way and one starts to get discouraged, but your book and His word are a daily inspiration that keeps me fighting. My heart has changed so much and it continues to mend with His. He has shown me and continues to show me His unfailing love and grace. He is everything I could have ever asked for and more. I can honestly say I am in love with Him now and our relationship is deeper than i ever could have imagined. My faith has become so strong, so thank you, for letting God use you to touch hearts.
Your response gives me the goosebumps! I wish when I was your age, I had a love for God like you do! Very inspiring. If you don’t mind me asking, what were some of the things that discouraged you? How did you pull away from that discouragement and move on?
I spend the majority of my life with young people, particularly high school students. Anaiah’s story is common in that it reflects the searching hearts of so many of my young friends. It is unique in that, through his significant challenges, he finds hope and direction in Jesus Christ alone. That is my prayer for the kids I know and love. I plan to introduce many of them to Anaiah’s story through this book, believing that God can use it to lead them to Himself. Thank you Anaiah for candidly and openly sharing a story of searching that so many can relate to.