The author was born and raised in central New York State where life began for him March 14, 1943. The book that he has written delves into his life starting at age 17 when he joins the Army. The very first chapter establishes the beat of the book at a fast pace - it is here where the author defines himself and takes a look at his challenges that he faces as a young man. The book takes the reader into the author's world, and the complexities that confront him as he struggles to survive - hence the "will to live." He introduces the reader to a mix of self-development and education as he enters the corporate business world. He marries at age 35 to a sweet affectionate lady ten years younger - and she has a dark side. The author will give a first-hand accounting of how she deals with her demons. After thirty years of working inside, the author decides to pursue his real passion as a professional skier/snowboarder - he finds freedom in the outdoors as he continues his mission to be his best. He spends time here on this feeling of being in the mountains; he also has a rather large dog, a black lab, Max, they become close. When Max passes, the author offers to take him into his being... time is spent here remembering his love of Max. Late in life, at the turn of the millennium, the author becomes sick; he is close to death - he decides, not now, and through will power and research he heals himself - reversing the bad with the good; he'll tell you his story. At book's end he reprimands the city he calls home to look after their "whole" flock.