Accepted.

I invite you into my story... one that is honest, candid & from the heart. I hope that in sharing my truth, you are encouraged to find a safe space to share yours. As you read this book, wherever you find yourself in life & regardless of your experiences, our message remains constant: In Him you are ACCEPTED.

When the effects of rejection are left unaddressed, we'll find ourselves trying to sooth the sting by conforming to others-being someone we're not & doing things that are unrealistic-all for the sake of acceptance! At the root of this desire is approval addiction. But there is hope & healing! You can break this cycle & experience freedom. Throughout the pages of this book, Dean uses both the word of God & personal experiences to help redirect you to the loving embrace of your Heavenly Father, where you'll find acceptance.

Since January of 1993, Dean Sikes has been on the road, ministering words of hope in high schools across America & in nations of the world. To date, he's spoken at over three thousand five hundred schools, sharing the message of hope with millions of teenagers. The connection he has with teens & young people continues to ignite a conversation encompassing this truth: you matter. And because you matter, you were created to fulfill a purpose & your life has meaning. Dean is simply a vessel who conveys this truth wholeheartedly to those he encounters. Together with his wife, Lori, the Sikes family make their home in Chattanooga, Tennessee.