Irrational Hope

Moving from Pain to Purpose

By: Robert Ryan

Narrated by: David Piper

We all suffer, but if you struggle with why that is and how to find the hope and strength to go on, this book is for you. Ryan shares his journey from the darkest depths of hysterical sadness to acceptance, understanding, and joy. He explores the purpose of suffering and shows you how to gain from it. He does this not on a grand humanity level, but on a vulnerable, personal level, with unique insights that will make a difference in how you live and how you approach death. When humbled by pain, tragedy, and loss, we are finally able to feel God’s presence and access the uplifting power of Irrational Hope in our lives.

©2023 Robert Ryan (P)2024 Robert Ryan

A Lifeline for Life Itself

Robert Ryan’s book Irrational Hope packs a spiritual and intellectual bunch I’ve seldom received in so few words. No one can compare to the great C. S. Lewis in this regard, but there are times when this book comes close. Listening to it is almost like having a conversation with a good friend. It packs a punch with many great lines like, “Why not make today the day you want tomorrow to be,” and, “Success in this life is not about the path you took, but how you took the path.”

Ryan lays out the ever difficult topic of pain in suffering in a way that's vulnerable and inspiring from a spiritual perspective, logical and well supported from an analytical perspective, and yet practical and topical from an everyday existence perspective. It's a truly remarkable book with answers about pain and suffering I've not found anywhere else. This is one of those Audible books that I intend to buy in paperback and keep on the small rack of treasures next to my bed, always there when I need a ray of hope facing the struggles of this world.

Inspiring Book!

I listened to this book twice before deciding to write a review.
The first round was on a more emotional basis - tying into the author’s deep personal suffering and gradually revealed spiritual enlightenments. Some chapters simultaneously tore me up and made me thankful and joyful all at the same time.
The second listening was more intellectually focused. More in the context of my own life events continually challenging my faith in God. I was looking for rational answers to help explain and cope with the “bad” in life, and I found them.
I think Irrational Hope hits the mark both emotionally and intellectually. It’s just the right length, well organized with each chapter/topic approached with discernment and obvious care to deliver the author’s message in a “sharing” voice. I especially like how informally, and in a direct “familiar” way Robert speaks to the reader. He is coaxing, challenging the reader to consider and accept his thesis, but without being preachy or pious.
Reading it is like having a conversation with a friend. Not to be too sappy, but when I finished, I had a clear-headed, calm and peaceful sense about pain and suffering I’ve never had before.

Insightful & inspirational work on pain, hope and a relationship with God.

This is one of the most insightful and inspirational books that I've ever read, and on a most difficult topic: pain and suffering. Rob Ryan lays out this difficult topic in a way that's vulnerable and inspiring from a spiritual perspective, logical from an analytical viewpoint and both encouraging and helpful from a human (daily action) perspective. I will be buying or recommending this book for many people that are dealing with this difficulty in their lives (whether directly or indirectly). It's a truly remarkable book that will help anyone with their walk, particularly in times of difficulty, and help them find the light of God in times of darkness.

Just understanding someone else’s suffering will help lighten their load

So good!

I found myself pausing and taking notes and ‘rewinding’ and listening again to so many of the author’s thoughts. ‘Weeping along with me is the therapy I need.’ This thought applies to so many different people and situations. It’s one of many that made me pause and really reflect on.

The narrator’s voice is spot on for the book’s content. I also have the paperback version, will be sharing it with friends and family. Highly recommend!

I will refer to this book time and again for the rest of my life

Rob has incredible intellectual and emotional insight, and he illustrates beautifully how it’s possible to move from pain and suffering to hope and peace.

Authentic and Thought Provoking Read

I listened to this book while hiking this weekend. It’s the perfect starter for thinking about the role of hope in our lives. The book had me thinking about my relationship with god and reminded me that hope can be present in many ways as we encounter life’s hurdles and tribulations. As a cancer survivor much of the book resonated with me. My biggest takeaway is that love is a currency we can spend endlessly and that is never taken away and that reminder gives me the most hope of all. Thank you for this authentic reflection!

Frame your thoughts!

Just like the author mentioned it's good to frame your thoughts, as this book hits different depending on what mood I am in. So I'm thankful this book now has an audiobook version as I also have the hard copy and now can listen to the thoughtful and deep ideas whenever I want!
Put nothing in your Anxiety Box, put everything in your Prayer and Thanksgiving Box!!

Positive attitude

I have read Ryan’s book but actually seemed to focus more on his words in the audio version. So inspiring as he digs deep emotionally and intellectually to deal with all of his pain and suffering. He is truly grounded in his faith and his ability to stay mindful and continue to be positive in his cancer journey is a wake up call for all of us. This book is a valuable resource.

This book is wonderful and a valuable resource.

Written with intellectual and emotional insight, Robert does a wonderful job explaining how it is possible to move from pain and suffering to hope and peace. It is a valuable resource . I will listen to the book more than once to help me be mindful of living with less anxiety and more peace.

Thank you!

The author gave me new insights into suffering, pain and illness. As I struggle with my own illness, I feel like I have a new look into how to handle it. God bless Robert!