Breaking Barriers: From the Barrio to the Bar (PB) (2018)

"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness." As a child growing up in Port Isabel, Texas, the truths embodied in the Declaration of Independence were simply words without practical meaning to Jose Zurita. Notwithstanding, he memorized and recited them as did every child in his generation, but in time, these words began to take shape in his inquisitive mind. The operative word was then and is now "liberty." The liberty Jose enjoyed growing up in this South Texas town in the 1950s allowed him to explore seemingly unreachable opportunities and dream of a prosperous future. A future much different than the reality of poverty, neglect, and prejudice he experienced as a child. Join Jose on his journey as he ventured out into the world and broke cultural, economic, and political barriers imposed upon him by others. Barriers he refused to accept and overcame with the hope that others would also benefit from his example of perseverance. You will be inspired by Jose's journey and conquer your personal fears to become everything God intended. As he demonstrated, there are no barriers that can deter you if you are prepared and determined to achieve a life characterized by effective influence and prosperity. -Pastor Randy J. Blanton