Endorsements
In my life, my parents have been equal parts counselor, companion, navigator, co-conspirator, and friend. They've been a source of wisdom not just for me, but for our entire extended community. I'm excited that the simple parenting truths they've learned can reach even further through this book.
Tim Foreman, Bassist, Switchfoot
I remember very little about my childhood. The memories come back to me like a blurry ride with a few specific moments of clarity. When I was young, I remember thinking that I had great parents but I didn't really know what that meant. On the day my daughter was born my wife and I began a different, blurry journey: one where the stakes are high, sleep runs low, and time is of the essence. This book has given me a roadmap to see the past from my parents perspective. And for new parents like myself, it offers landmarks of guidance to help map out the foreign terrain of parenting.
Jon Foreman, Lead Singer, Switchfoot
One of the scariest things that can happen to us is having kids. Never Say No brings hope to parents who are looking for a way to move forward. Instead of trying to control, shape and mold kids, Mark and Jan have embraced another way: I wonder who these children will become and how can I help that happen in a beautiful way, while protecting them in the process? Like seeds in the ground that we're watering and nurturing, we're discovering with them and God who these kids actually are. This philosophy gives parents a strong offense that is a great balance to so many other voices that we hear. The behavior is going to follow the relationship. Their counter intuitive approach to parenting can make a huge difference.
Don Miller and wife Betsy, Author (Blue Like Jazz, etc) and Founder of StoryBrand
Never Say No is a wise, holistic, and wonderfully inspiring book about the great work of opening up the world to a child and cheering them on to the life God has for them as an adult. Mark and Jan are not perfect parents announcing their success stories and “how we did it right.” Far from it. They do however, perfectly illuminate and embody many directions forward toward the faithful, imaginative life of raising creative, empathetic citizens ready to contribute good to the world. And for this, they'll forever have our gratitude and respect. For almost twenty years our lives have been entwined with the Foremans. In particular with their sons Jon and Tim of the band Switchfoot. This represents a treasured place in our own individual stories. The Foreman family story perennially reminds of God’s grace and the good fruit of intentional, Christ-dependent parenting.
Andi Ashworth, author of Real Love for Real Life: The Art and Work of Caring, Editor-in-Chief of the Art House America Blog and Charlie Peacock, Grammy Award-winning record producer (Switchfoot, The Civil Wars, Chris Cornell)
Rebekah and I go to one source for parenting advice, Mark and Jan Foreman. Their stories of raising sons that use their gifts to pierce the darkness will make you laugh, cry and give you a glimpse into how to connect your child’s heart.
Gabe and Rebekah Lyons, Authors and Q Founders
'As new parents, my husband and I are always on the lookout for solid parenting wisdom. So needless to say, I was excited when I learned that my friends Mark and Jan had written a book about their inspiring journey as a family! Filled with practical insights, humor, and fantastic stories, 'Never Say No' is a book I loved reading and one that I thoroughly recommend!'
Rebecca St. James - Singer and author of 'One Last Thing'
"Never Say No taps into a powerful but neglected place - the landscape of imagination. Imagination connects us to eternity, allowing us to think, dream and become. This book is a catalytic resource for parents - and for everyone else." - John Sowers, Author of The Heroic Path
John and Kari Sowers, President and CEO - The Mentoring Project
I've had the privilege of knowing Jon and Tim Foreman for the last 15 years. While no simple formula could give birth to Switchfoot, when you meet Mark and Jan, the whole thing does start to make sense. Mark and Jan lead and love with kindness, humility, wisdom and grace. I hope to be a dad someday. I hope to be a dad like Mark. And when that day comes, I'll certainly be reaching for this book.
Jamie Tworkowski, Author and founder of To Write Love on Her Arms