The Cornell Effect: A Family’s Journey towards Happiness, Fulfillment and Peace

The Cornell Effect is infectious. Written in its pages is little other than positivity. When you notice a shift from the negativity of the world to the positivity of Cornell, you’ll notice a difference in yourself and your day. Written by Dr. John Cranham, The Cornell Effect is about the adoption and consequential struggles that John faced when his wife Kim, an occupational therapist at the local hospital, fell in love with a one-pound baby who had to rely on a trachea to breathe through. Cornell had every odd against him; everyone assumed he wouldn’t make it, or at the least, it would be a long and difficult road. Through sheer determination to prove the medical team wrong, along with a sincere belief that Cornell had what it takes to succeed, John and Kim brought home a child that would ultimately change their lives for the best.

Throughout the book, John records moments regarding Cornell that show where he may be lacking in academic intelligence due to being born three months premature, he excels over the best in social intelligence, self-confidence, perseverance, and the biggest of hearts. Within the pages are many themes; faith, racism, intellectual differences, and understanding your worth are among a few of them. There are so many great references that The Cornell Effect makes for a great and effective pep talk through life. Cornell was able to contribute to situations through his positive energy and unique outlook on life; this is an outlook that many more people should adopt!

Cranham picked the right situation for each chapter, it pertained to the overall theme of the chapter, and there was always a moral to take away. Cornell has done so much good for others; one of my favorite stories was when he hit golf balls to raise money for his cousin. Several of the stories had my eyes welling up because of the goodness being displayed. I never noticed myself feeling anything other than happiness while reading through the pages, and the desire to better myself. Having similar spiritual beliefs, I appreciated the emphasis that Dr. Cranham placed on that aspect of their lives. It is refreshing to hear people who take what is given to them and not complain about what could have been while blaming God for everything bad that has happened.

Even though the book is shorter, it is packed with important life lessons that are family-friendly. Not everyone’s story will turn out as well as Cornell and John’s, but for these two, God knew what he was doing amid uncertainty. The Cornell Effect is recommended to literally everyone!