Finding Me by Viola Davis

This was the first book in The 2020 2.0 Challenge. We wanted to welcome the participants warmly into the new year and also into the challenge. Let’s find out if they enjoyed it.

Summary

«Finding Me» by Viola Davis is a compelling memoir that delves into the actress’s journey from a childhood marked by poverty and hardship in Rhode Island to her rise to fame in New York City. Through deep reflection, therapy, and a candid exploration of her most painful memories, Viola Davis discovers a life worth living. The book touches on themes of trauma, family dynamics, determination, and eventual triumph. Viola’s story resonates with readers who appreciate honest, reflective writing and transparent storytelling. The memoir portrays Viola’s resilience, fortitude, and commitment to self-discovery despite challenging circumstances.

Daily Nuggets

Below are a few daily nuggets from our members:

> Reading this book, I am reminded that running from one’s past or pending issues is hardly a permanent solution as these things would resurface more often than not. The main thrust here is that acknowledging and embracing the strength derived from our younger selves can be a transformative force. It’s a reminder for all of us that, in facing our past with honesty and compassion, we unlock the potential for personal growth and self-discovery. – Legide.

Amarachi says:

> This part of the book teaches us to trust God but first we must know what we want. Knowing what we want even to the tiniest little detail and telling it to God. Viola in this part has not even said a prayer for a long time and was not close to God per se but a friend adviced her to kneel and tell God what she wanted. I learnt that I can get anything good I want if I tell God, it might not come immediately but it will surely come and if it doesn’t come in the way I want it, I’m sure it’s coming in a more perfect way that God has designed it, we just need to trust him.

And lastly from Anna:

Today’s nugget from the book is on page 107, where Viola talks about the importance of persistence and never giving up on your dreams. She says, «There were so many reasons to turn back, to stop chasing my dreams. But each time, I kept going. I kept trying.”

Lessons Learnt

We asked our members to answer the question; «what did Finding Me teach you personally?»

These are some of their answers:

• I learnt the art of self-discovery; to accept myself and what I stand for.
• I learnt that my sense of identity is behind everything I do whether or not I am aware.
• The book laid an important emphasis on trusting God and this struck me as a person.
• Anyone can recreate their future no matter what the background story is.
• I shouldn’t let what others say define me, that’s not who I am. I am who I want to be, I just have to look within myself. Also, not let the past define and haunt me whatever the trauma I have been through.
• With resilience and determination, I can achieve a lot, I just need to shut out the noise, find the right companionship, and push.
• To never give up, no matter what comes our way or background.

Rating

Overall, the participants rated it 4.3/5.

They found it quite insightful and enjoyable.