The story of the cosmic integration of a soul fractured in childhood by an early sexual abuse and troubled and suicidal mother who went on to re-create the puzzle of herself, piece by piece. Propelled by an indomitable spirit and an inner will to raise herself up from the morass of her human condition—supported by an equine companion who had likewise been abused—and powered by her conscious tie to God, she erected pillars of professional pursuits. Hertha then rebuilt her core identity until she could slowly allow the protective, defensive structure of a steeled persona to dissolve. Her momentum in this work became a force that morphed until all parts now have merged into that unity of oneness of a puzzle completed!

I've always said no one knows what happens when we close our doors at night. Hertha has left her door ajar, and we can view her journey as an incredible example that, with God's help, everything is possible. Alchemy of Resilience reminded me that we are all given gifts by God. We must find them and use them to better ourselves and humanity. Hertha's gifts are many. It seems to me, she developed and used them all. Also, I believe that horses were given to Hertha, not only to ride but also to provide a vehicle to kindness, compassion, forgiveness, determination, and love.

Hertha's book encapsulates a rancher's mentality. Her book captures the vast view of the country she witnessed from horseback at a young age. The tenacity, self-reliance, the ability to suck it up and keep going no matter what, are all attributes she gained from her childhood on the ranch. My spiritual path has led me to know that sometimes those who God loves the most are the ones who seem to suffer the most. I am grateful that Hertha opened the door to her heart and shared experiences. My life is better for knowing her and reading her book.

I feel very honored to be a part of Hertha's vital, beginning journey of healing. I cannot be more proud of what she has done with her life, who she is, and how she continues to help heal others through her beautiful work on herself and with her horses. Alchemy of Resilience is a very powerful, vulnerable, and profound book. It is very detailed, and the reader gets to feel the incredible psychological and emotional journey with her. Also, the reader can glean insights on what helped Hertha—her faith, strength, tenacity, and her love and trust for animals, as well as the horses along the way that helped guide her. Alchemy of Resilience will be incredibly transformative and illuminating to anyone who has the courage to read it and traverse their own journey simultaneously.

What a beautiful and visceral experience Hertha put into form. She captured the cycle of her life that wanted and needed to be complete. She tracked her process and offered her vulnerability to be witnessed through her story. To have witnessed her journey, through her darkest places, and to see her move through her shadow to find her light has been humbling. Hertha has added much to the collective integration and healing by sharing her personal journey. Alchemy of Resilience is truly and inspiration of dedication, loyalty, and to finding unconditional love. She walked, rode, and even swam through all the layers that she needed to. Finding her worthiness in her wholeness in the end is the greatest gift of all. It is my belief, "We can't heal by ourselves. We are all one big herd after all."