Book excerpt: In Nonel the author describes major events in the life of a young boy who grew up in Romania from 1939 1954. That was a period when the country switched from a monarchy (before 1947) to a communist dominated republic. The issues that affected Nonel during that period influenced his thought for the rest of his life. These experiences enabled the boy realize that as long as we continue to function, we must challenge lifes suffering and sorrows. Akin to our bodys attempts to heal, our mind must seek harmony and contentment. Perhaps we can amend for our trespasses not only by helping others, weaker than ourselves, but also by mending the distress in our lives and anguish of our souls. In essence, an evil person who attempts to accomplish good deeds all the time can confuse even God!