We all have gurus among us, even if we have yet to discover most of them. Lessons can come from the most unexpected places—whether it’s an aunt, a peanut vendor, or even a little girl who might not have intended to impart any wisdom at all. In a world filled with hidden gems of insight, it’s essential to remain open to the teachings that life presents us.

Every one of us has our own purpose, and each being holds significance. We just need to open our eyes and attune our senses to the richness that exists within everything and everyone in our world. Rob White, an educator turned businessman, takes us on a journey through the golden nuggets of truth and beauty he has gathered throughout his life, reminding us that wisdom often lies in plain sight, waiting for us to acknowledge it.

With no pretence of being perfect or infallible, each chapter of the book presents the initial assumptions he refers to as “Myths,” followed by the eventual learnings he accepts as “Realities.” This structure allows readers to engage with the material deeply, reflecting on their own beliefs while being guided through Rob’s transformative journey. Each myth he addresses reveals a layer of understanding, exposing the misconceptions we often hold about ourselves and the world around us.

These reflections are just a glimpse of the realisations and insights I gleaned from this piece. The narratives are delivered with a refreshing honesty that is devoid of condescension. Even better, the takeaways are conveyed without the boring or patronising tone that can sometimes feel forced down one’s throat. Instead, Rob’s writing invites readers to ponder and reflect, creating a dialogue that feels both personal and universal.

While I noted some areas for grammatical improvement in parts of the manuscript—because, as the saying goes, “old habits die hard”—these issues did not impede my reading experience. Rob’s style is light yet witty, filled with a realistic practicality that feels relatable. The book is brimming with themes of self-determination, tenacity, flexibility, persistence, grit, resilience, and street smarts. It is this very richness that makes Rob’s words resonate so powerfully; they serve as a reminder that life’s challenges can be met with courage and creativity.

One need not be an entrepreneur to appreciate the author’s insights; anyone who contemplates what is and what could be good will find something to relate to in his words. The anecdotes sprinkled throughout the book, paired with his genuine reflections, make it easy to see oneself in his experiences. There’s a sense of camaraderie in his storytelling, as if he’s not just sharing lessons but inviting you into a conversation.

Rob White’s And Then I Met Margaret is more than just a collection of lessons; it’s an exploration of the human experience and the connections we forge along the way. It encourages us to recognise the wisdom in our everyday encounters and to celebrate the journey of self-discovery.