A Series Introduction to the Life Lessons Library

Vernon J DeFlanders doesn’t just write books—he builds bridges between generations.

As a passionate author, seasoned mentor, and a U.S. Air Force veteran with a lifetime of hard-won wisdom, Vernon has made it his life’s work to guide NextGen Adults—teenagers and young adults navigating the complex path to personal growth and independence.

This series, Lighting the Path Forward, is designed to share his insights, stories, and resources with those who are asking the deeper questions:

• Who am I becoming?
• How do I make wise choices in a world full of distractions?
• What does it really mean to grow up with purpose?

Through a collection of writings—both blog posts and books—Vernon invites readers to explore the defining life lessons that build character, shape identity, and inspire self-leadership.

📚 Books by Vernon J DeFlanders

Each title in Vernon’s growing library is crafted with intention, rooted in real-life experience, and written in a voice that feels like a trusted guide at your side.

1. Rise Again: A Teen's Guide to Overcoming Life's Challenges

 Theme: Resilience, Self-Awareness, and Purpose

 This book serves as a foundational guide for young adults preparing to enter the world on their own terms. It tackles issues such as personal accountability, emotional intelligence, and the value of patience in a fast-paced society. Vernon reminds readers that mistakes aren’t failures—they’re vital parts of the learning curve.

“Your journey is shaped more by your response to challenges than the challenges themselves.”

2. Beyond Acquaintances: Understanding and Cultivating Friendships

 Theme: Decision-Making and Identity

 Focused on the critical decisions that shape who we become, this book dives into real-life scenarios and the power of choice. It encourages readers to pause, reflect, and consider how today’s choices impact tomorrow’s outcomes.

“You are always one decision away from a different life.”

3. Teaching Children How to Pray and the Reasons for It

 Theme: Mental Toughness and Emotional Growth

 This title explores how to remain grounded when everything feels uncertain. Vernon speaks to the quiet power of persistence, the importance of emotional regulation, and the courage it takes to grow through what you go through.

“Strength isn’t loud—it’s the steady refusal to give up.”

4. Breaking Stereotype: Seeing People for Who They Are

 Theme: Legacy, Leadership, and Generational Wisdom

 Drawing from his experiences as a Vietnam War veteran, Vernon shares timeless principles of honor, resilience, and responsibility. This book bridges past and present, offering guidance that transcends age and speaks to anyone seeking clarity in chaos.

“The past has a voice—if you’re wise enough to listen.”

🔥 What’s Coming in This Series

Each upcoming blog post in this series will explore a core theme from Vernon’s books and lived experiences, including:

• How to cultivate emotional maturity in a world of instant gratification
• Building habits of self-respect and mental clarity
• Navigating peer pressure with personal conviction
• Finding your voice without losing your values
• Reflections on failure, forgiveness, and starting over

🙌 Join the Movement

 Vernon isn’t here to lecture—he’s here to light the path. Whether you're a teen, a twenty-something, or someone guiding the next generation, this series is for you. His goal is simple yet profound: to create a space where stories lead to self-discovery, and where wisdom is passed—not pushed—into the hands of those who need it most.

“Legacy isn’t what we leave behind—it’s what we pass forward.”

Stay tuned, subscribe, and be part of a growing movement to raise wiser, stronger, more grounded young adults—one lesson at a time.