My first question was, "Did he bug my office and spy on me for year to get the material for this book?" Serving in a rural area, it is easy to feel as if you are alone in pastoral leadership. Especially when it comes to conflict. After all, you are the new one in town. Gary Preston shares his personal experience (failures and successes) in a brotherly way that is helpful, not condescending. Specific anecdotes and ideas for living in conflict and loving in conflict are much better than just a list on how to deal with conflict. The author addresses two much needed areas: family balance and preaching during controversy. I find these (as did he)difficult but necessary mountains to scale in ministry.Good job, Gary.