ENCORE…
MAKING PEACE WITH YOUR PAST
It’s been said, “you may be through with your past, but your past may not be through with you.” The year is 1981, (the dawn of deregulation in the transportation industry) and life as Tony L Harris once knew it is about to change forever. Come join him and travel back down memory lane, as he explores his life’s journey as a twenty-something adult – how he got here and how what was supposed to have been a 4-month summer job (a temporary financial stop gap) turned into a 40-year life altering spiritual journey, in the exciting and challenging world of transportation logistics. Please come aboard. It’s time to know the truth, the raw and naked truth, even if it hurts for a little while.
PRAISE FOR ENCORE…
WHAT SOME EXPERTS ARE SAYING
“Encore is wonderfully written; the stories invoke fond memories of my 20+ years in the logistics industry. This is a must read for newbies or veterans like myself. Tony, I tip my hat off to you on a job well done.”
-Jack Hunt Owner, Send It Express, LLC
“Whether you’re one of the 10,000 baby boomers retiring each day, choosing to finally EXIT the workforce, or perhaps you’re just graduating from high school or college and embarking upon the uncertainties and challenges of starting a new career, this book, “ENCORE,” is a must read. Each story discussed is shaped with meaningful messages that are informative, uplifting, and entertaining. I highly recommend this book. Enjoy!”
-Greg Mercer Director of Sales, XPO Logistics
“Having served a lot of hard times in the logistics industry myself, I absolutely LOVE this book, loved hearing all the beautiful heart-warming stories and the powerful impact our logistic industry is making throughout the globe. Mr. Harris' illustrations of the characters and situations makes it seem as if you were there along with him. This is a great page turner for those of us still in the industry, it's highly recommended for those incoming and everyone in between!”
-Priscilla A Wilson, LCB Corporate Customs Broker, Globe Express Services
“In this heartwarming, and humorous book, author Tony L Harris takes the reader on an exciting and memorable hero’s journey through his powerful stories of struggle and ultimate success. Great read.”
-Heather Poulin Senior Director, USPack Logistics
“Congratulations Tony L Harris for your courage to tell the truth and set the record straight once and for all. WOW! What a potential hiring explosion this book, ENCORE, could have over the next ten years, especially if the word spreads throughout the African American communities and people of color. This inspiring-humorous book represents a beautiful depiction of one man’s grit and determination to succeed against all odds. I especially enjoyed reading about the hiring practices that young Tony was subjected to and endured back then, 40 years ago. As we have all heard, “if we don’t learn from our past history, we are sure to repeat it.” It is my sincere hope that you pick up a copy of this book and become inspired to seize the day, as we all embrace the change that we want and hope for in the world.”
-Kelsye Jefferson Solutions Specialist, Old Dominion
“This book represents a beautiful depiction of truth, honor, and legacy, and has become Tony L Harris’ most urgent challenge and clarion call to all dreamers and forward thinkers, regardless of your occupation or career choice. To all conscientious truth seekers who are committed to serving and helping others, I encourage you to read this book for a daily dose of inspiration, laughter and courage.”
-Marc Weidner Vice President of Field Sales, ArcBest
“An amazing read for anyone seeking a career in logistics or perhaps someone who is simply searching. I had the opportunity to see Tony in action close up later in his career as a Corporate Trainer and reading his book now makes me appreciate both him and the incredible world of logistics even more. This book will have you asking for an ENCORE!”
-Dave Sosnowski Chief Sales Officer, STG Logistics
Tony’s mission: to teach, inspire and empower others to believe in God and self, make good decisions and strive for greatness.
Tony’s Motto: No One Can Do You Like You Can!
FOREWORD by Greg Mercer, Director of Sales, XPO Logistics
I am reminded of the poem by Maya Angelou that says, “I come as one, but I stand as 10,000.” When I think of Tony L Harris, and even though I am 6’5” and much taller than him, clearly he is one of the many giants in the industry who’s broad shoulders I am standing on today. I have a sincere appreciation and respect for the commitment and leadership that Tony has given to our logistics industry at large. His superb body of work speaks for itself as demonstrated by me and thousands of others that he’s inspired to live the best version of themselves.
Tony’s name is synonymous with “servant caring leadership,” in his daily work and as the role model he represents for so many of my colleagues, myself included.
When he retired in March, 2020, the mayor of his city awarded him the distinct honor of declaring it “Tony L. Harris Day.” Who gets such an award as this when they are retiring after 40+ years of continuous service? I challenge you to think about the last time you attended such an exuberant retirement celebration extravaganza.
Tony’s unwavering inspirational coaching, and selfless acts of kindness have unquestionably made a tremendous difference in my life and career, which inevitably included the good, the bad and ugly of his memoir title.
So, I encourage you to open not only your eyes, but your heart as well, and really let the deeper message in this book, ENCORE, sink in. It will truly take you on a journey that highlights the power of faith, persistence, and dedication. My final words In closing, “job well done.”