Choices to Live By

What defines a life well lived? Is it wealth, success, or the absence of suffering? Or is it something far deeper - the quiet, consistent choices we make every day about who we want to be?

In Choices to Live By, Jon Shattuck - a husband of 64 years, a career hospital administrator, a faith-driven man, and a lifelong learner - shares the insights that have shaped his extraordinary life. Drawing from decades of experience, personal loss, unexpected opportunity, and unwavering faith, Shattuck writes with the warmth of a trusted mentor and the candor of someone who has seen it all.

Each chapter explores a cornerstone of meaningful living: understanding who you truly are, the power of truth and authenticity, making wise decisions, finding a life partner, practicing forgiveness, listening with intention, embracing humility, walking through grief, escaping victimhood, discovering your purpose, and surrendering to a faith greater than yourself.

This book does not offer easy answers. Instead, it invites readers of all ages to pause, reflect, and ask themselves the hard questions - the kind that reveal character, build resilience, and open the door to a genuinely fulfilling life.

Shattuck's writing is personal, honest, and deeply human. He shares his own stumbles - a lost job, years of spiritual uncertainty, unexpected career pivots - alongside the moments of grace that changed everything. His story is proof that purpose is not planned; it is discovered through openness, courage, and love.

Whether you are a young adult stepping into independence, someone navigating a midlife crossroads, or a seasoned soul reflecting on the years behind you, Choices to Live By speaks to the universal human desire to live with meaning, love with depth, and face life with courage.

At its core, this book carries one simple, powerful message: Love is the bottom line.