Rare, Medium, or Done Well

Do you know what “Potato Salad Time” is? When you read Mike Huckabee’s compelling message Rare, Medium or Done Well: Make the Most of Your Life you will! And although I pretty much disagree with all of Mike Huckabee’s political views, you might be shocked to learn that this book is one I actually endorse! Set aside your political passions long enough to enjoy an uplifting call to think bigger than the things that divide us. We may have big differences, but Mike’s book proves we agree on things that matter.

—Van Jones, CNN News Host & Political Commentator

Only my Southern-Fried Friend Mike Huckabee would title a book chapter “Potato Salad Time.” If you don’t know what that means, you probably grew up someplace where grits aren’t on the menu either! This book is worth buying and reading just to learn how important it is to be ready for YOUR “Potato Salad Time.”

—Todd Starnes, Fox News and Fox News Radio and Best-Selling Author

I am drawn to books that have been written from a person’s “insides.” This is just that book. The author is well-known, so many of us are already familiar with his politics, the members of his family, even his spiritual beliefs … but what does Mike Huckabee really think about when he is alone? What does he know about the future of my family? If I paid for the time and provided the pen and ink, what could—what would—a wise man tell me about myself? Stated simply … Rare, Medium or Done Well is the book you and I have been waiting for someone—anyone—to write. Now Mike Huckabee has done it. Mom, dad, teenager, grandparent, young adult … do you want to “Make the Most of Your Life?” Yep. Me, too. Read this book. I’m about to start it again.

—Andy Andrews, New York Times Best-Selling Author of The Traveler’s Gift and The Noticer

Here’s a sobering thought by a comedian: “we die a little every day.” Know how to counter that? Get busy living and living well. You’ll need a guide and THIS book is perfect. Thank you, Governor!

—Chonda Pierce, Comedian

Life is not a dress rehearsal—and there are no re-takes. Our friend Mike Huckabee vividly brings that message home in his provocative book Rare, Medium or Done Well. Using his trademark humor and acerbic wit, he champions the sobering lesson of preparing for the final curtain-call.

—Kevin and Sam Sorbo, Filmmakers

I’ve known Mike Huckabee since 1991, before his first political race. We’ve been friends since and I’ve watched him through campaigns, holding the offices of Lt. Governor and Governor in Arkansas, campaigns for President, a successful career in television, radio, and as a bestselling author. He’s had many roles, but one thing has been consistent and constant—his focus on the FINAL chapter of his life. His message in this book can be embraced and loved by people on the left or right, but especially by those who know that our most important direction at the end of life is UP!”

—Ralph Reed, Christian Activist, Author, Political Strategist

When you look at life’s menu and see “Mike Huckabee” just order it well done … for those are the words that describe his own life and legacy. I love the message of this new book—read it and reap!

—O.S. Hawkins, Author of The Joshua Code and the Code Series devotionals and President/CEO of GuideStone Financial Resources

There is little more a father (or parents) can ever do than build and leave legacy for, with, and in their children. Not a material legacy, but a legacy of substance. Governor Mike Huckabee’s timely emphasis could not correspond with greater need than the vacuum that today’s culture presents.

—Kevin McCullough, “Binge Thinker”, PM Drive Host: Salem Media Group

My friendship with Governor Huckabee continues to enrich my life with a deep understanding of life, faith, and the importance of building and keeping a spiritual base within my family. This book will enrich the life of everyone who reads this most wonderful book. Thank you, Governor Huckabee!

—Tony Orlando, Singer

Mike Huckabee and I shared the stage when we both ran for President, but we were never opponents, only good friends and “faith brothers” seeking the same job. Neither of us got the job, but we both kept our souls! Mike has captured what has driven my wife, Karen, and I in our lives—that our ultimate worth is not money, fame, or a political office, but in the children we raise, the integrity we pass on to them, and the spiritual mark we leave on others. He has captured in this book what I hope more people will embrace—that a life “done well” is the best legacy we can leave.

—Rick Santorum, former US Senator, Candidate for President, and Best-Selling Author

I’m not just friends with the Huckabees, Mike and Janet are active members of our church, and I can attest that this is not just a book—it’s their lifestyle to plan for the future by keeping spiritual things front and center. I hope you’ll use this book for your own personal improvement, but perhaps use it for a small group study. And live your life to be DONE WELL!

—Steve Vaggalis, Lead Pastor of Destiny Worship Center, Destin, FL

I work every day to change the grips of poverty and hopelessness, and I realize that good intentions can’t substitute godly people living for something eternal. My friend Mike Huckabee lays out a powerful yet practical path to being ready to finish well in this life to be ready for the next one.

—Star Parker, Nationally Syndicated Columnist, President of UrbanCure, and Social Policy Ponsultant

I’ve argued numerous cases before the US Supreme Court, but one day we will all stand before the Supreme Judge whose rulings are just and eternal. In his latest book, my longtime friend Mike Huckabee scrapes away all the temporal and shallow goals people strive for to remind us that it’s the LAST thing that is the most important thing. I know you’ll enjoy his straight to the heart style and his straight to the heart message to be ready, not just for the next day of your life, but the LAST day of your life!

—Mat Staver, Founder and Chairman of Liberty Counsel, Former Dean of Liberty University Law School

Rare, Medium or Done Well is not a cookbook, but it does thoughtfully examine life’s daily menu of choices that ultimately add up to make us the people we are. Insightful, uplifting, and hopeful, Mike Huckabee has examined what lies ahead and nudges us to all live beyond this lifetime. How do you do that? It’s easy … if you know where to start.

—Steve Doocy, Host of Fox and Friends

Mike Huckabee worked for me as a young man and made a profound, positive impact. Now, as a great spokesman and statesman for the nation, Mike upholds the principles essential to faith, family, and freedom. His powerful book reveals the secrets of his success while demonstrating the potential for everyone to succeed. Above all, it maps the road to success and greatness for future generations of Americans.

—James Robison, Founder and President of LIFE Outreach International, Fort Worth, Texas

Many of us know Governor Mike Huckabee for his impressive resume as a pastor, politician, author, and commentator—but as he shares in his latest book, these aren’t the achievements he cherishes most. Instead, Governor Huckabee urges readers to consider what truly matters: faith, family, and generous service to others. This volume is sure to inspire many folks to take an honest look at what makes for a life “done well.”

—Jim Daly, President of Focus on the Family

Making money, being famous, or having power possibly only lasts a lifetime, but there is a life lived that outlasts our time on earth and Mike Huckabee’s message is an urgent reminder for all of us.

—Michael Youssef, Host of the global ministry Leading The Way with Dr. Michael Youssef

If you could combine the wisdom of Mother Teresa, Vince Lombardi, and Tony Robinson into one book, the title would be Rare, Medium or Done Well: Make the Most of Your Life by Mike Huckabee. He has hit it out of the ballpark with this offering.

—Michael Evans, #1 New York Times Best-Selling Author

Mike Huckabee and I have been friends for over 30 years and I’ve watched his life from being a pastor, denominational leader, political candidate, and governor. Mike Huckabee is a real friend and his life is reflected in this outstanding book. His faithfulness and consistency throughout his life is a living message that helps prepare you for your greatest days in the future. He shares with you how to live, how to face the end of your life in this world, and then challenges you to leave a legacy. This book is a game changer for your future.

—Dr. Ronnie Floyd, Senior Pastor of Cross Church, Arkansas

Governor Mike Huckabee has been my friend since seminary days in the late 70’s. Watching him keep the faith throughout his fascinating journey and unrivaled success as a pastor, politician, and parent has been an encouragement to all who have known him up close. As I read his new book, Rare, Medium or Done Well: Make the Most of Your Life, I realized that the classmate whom I first met over coffee 41 years ago still carries the same values and commitments that I so admired then. You can see Mike Huckabee in every word of this book, for he’s sharing insights from the life he lived. Rare, Medium or Done Well deals candidly with all the root issues that are confronting our beloved nation, offering real and tangible biblical solutions that work. He makes it clear that everyone has a role to play in recovering our nation. I highly recommend this book. I was enriched by reading it.

—Dr. Rick Scarborough, Founder of Vision America and Skyline Pastor, Washington, D.C.

We face opposition every day that convinces us that our lives and the decisions we make don’t matter or have consequences. Governor Huckabee refutes that claim with picture-perfect clarity in Rare, Medium or Done Well. This book is a guide to realigning your priorities. It’s a splash of encouraging water to the discouraged face!

—Josh Turner, multiple GRAMMY, CMA, and ACM nominated country music artist, one of youngest members of Grand Ole Opry

Many people only know Mike Huckabee as a political figure, but what really makes him tick is his faith and his latest book explores whether people are unprepared (Rare), mediocre (Medium), or ready for life’s final chapter (Done Well). This is a great small group study book or just for personal reflection and edification.

—Dr. Jim Garlow, Senior Pastor of Skyline Church, San Diego, CA

In Rare, Medium or Done Well Mike Huckabee has not just written a great book about living a life of purpose, he lives it! If you are looking for a book that will challenge and equip you to live a life that matters, then you’ve found it. I love this book and believe our country needs its message today as never before.

—Dr. Dennis Rainey, Cofounder of FamilyLife and Host of FamilyLife Today

My friend Mike Huckabee knows that the ultimate judgement of our lives won’t be by the media or voters, but the God of creation. In this very winsome book, Huckabee artfully and, at times, humorously leads the reader toward a life DONE WELL. We all need this reminder of what matters most is what lasts forever. You will enjoy and be blessed by this message!

—Robert Jeffress, Sr. Pastor, First Baptist Church, Dallas, TX

I know and love Mike Huckabee for many reasons, but one of them is that he seems perpetually full of joy. In Rare, Medium or Done Well: Make the Most of Your Life you find out why. He’s put the long term—including the eternal—over the day to day. So living well is not living rich, but living to be prepared for what people say about us when we’re gone. Now that is called forward thinking! And did I mention it’s fun to read? As a writer myself, I take that seriously!

—Eric Metaxas, New York Times Best-Selling Author of Martin Luther, Nationally Syndicated Radio Host

Rare,   

Medium or
Done Well 

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR LIFE

Mike Huckabee

Copyright © 2018 by Mike Huckabee

Published by Worthy Books, an imprint of Worthy Publishing Group, a division of Worthy Media, Inc., One Franklin Park, 6100 Tower Circle, Suite 210, Franklin, TN 37067.

WORTHY is a registered trademark of Worthy Media, Inc.

HELPING PEOPLE EXPERIENCE THE HEART OF GOD

eBook available wherever digital books are sold.

All rights reserved. No portion of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means—electronic, mechanical, photocopy, recording, scanning, or other—except for brief quotations in critical reviews or articles, without the prior written permission of the publisher.

Unless otherwise noted, Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. www.zondervan.com. The “NIV” and “New International Version” are trademarks registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Biblica, Inc.™ | Scripture quotations marked NKJV are taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Italics added to Scripture quotations are the author’s emphasis.

For foreign and subsidiary rights, contact rights@worthypublishing.com

Published in association with Frank Breeden of Premiere Authors | Shaker Heights, OH

ISBN: 978-1-68397-302-7 (Jacketed Hardcover)

ISBN: 978-1-68397-316-4 (TBN Special Edition)

Originally published as Living Beyond Your Lifetime © 2000 by Mike Huckabee

Cover Design: Matt Smartt, Smartt Guys Design

Cover Image: David Dobson, https://daviddobsonphoto.com/

Interior Design and Typesetting: Bart Dawson

Printed in the United States of America

18  19  20  21  22  LBM  8  7  6  5  4  3  2  1

Foreword

FORMER GOVERNOR MIKE HUCKABEE, a true leader, writes about lasting legacies. This book effectively makes the point that service to others and thinking of generations to come is a lot of what life is all about.

There can be no definition of a successful life that does not include service to others, and Former Governor Huckabee in Rare, Medium, or Done Well drives home that point.

—George H. W. Bush
Former President of the United States

Author’s Note

THIS PROJECT WAS a therapeutic experience for me, especially since my mother’s death occurred between the time I started the first edition of this book and the time I finished it.

When I completed the first version of this manuscript, I felt it was about my own pilgrimage of accepting the harsh reality that, with the death of both my parents, there was no longer anyone in my bloodline upstream from me. I needed to work through those deeply held feelings.

This book is straightforward and candid. I haven’t tried to be a writer as much a friend and even encourager to those who will read it. I hope you feel as if we are having a conversation over a cup of coffee or iced tea on a porch overlooking some water.

In the following chapters, I hope you’ll be challenged to think about living a life that is done well. This is the kind of life that is neither unprepared for the future (rare) nor rising to the highest level of mediocrity (medium). Instead, a life done well has lasting effects that will be felt long after you leave this earth by those who wouldn’t be the same if the seeds of your faith and faithfulness had not been planted.

Part One

A LEGACY LOST

1

LIVING HAPPILY EVER AFTER

“ONCE UPON A TIME …”

When I was growing up, my bedtime ritual every night included a fairy tale that always started with the same words and always concluded with the familiar, satisfying phrase that marked the end of the story and let me know it was time to go to sleep. You remember those famous closing words, don’t you? I imagine a smile has already come to your face as the words formed in your mind: “And they lived happily ever after.”

As a child of the optimistic 1950s, I dreamed that life might be something like that. No matter what obstacles, dangers, and perils might come my way, in the end I would live happily ever after.

I was a teenager in the late 1960s. I went to college and got married in the 1970s. I raised young children in the 1980s. I raised teenagers in the 1990s. In the ’90s, I also embarked on a political path that would take me to almost eleven years in the Arkansas Governor’s Mansion and two runs for the White House. During the decade beginning in 2010, I really hit the jackpot with the arrival of the six cutest and most adorable grandchildren on earth. I say that humbly, objectively, and quite truthfully!

My journey so far has convinced me that while we all may start with certain expectations, life does not always lead to living happily ever after. Life can sometimes be hard—very hard.

A Not-So-Fairy-Tale Ending

Not long ago, I came across a heartbreaking article about former NFL superstar Aaron Hernandez. By every account, young Aaron’s life seemed like a fairy tale that would surely have a “happily ever after” ending. An outstanding football player at Bristol Central High School in Connecticut, Aaron set several state records and even a national high school record for receiving yards per game. He soared to national fame his senior year, when he was named Connecticut’s 2007 Gatorade Football Player of the Year and ranked as the top tight-end recruit in the country.

Yet despite his exceptional football performance, Aaron began making some unwise choices off the field. Devastated by the death of his father, Aaron started partying and using drugs. Worse, he began hanging out with the local gangs his father had been trying to shield him from.

Thankfully, the University of Florida gave him a football scholarship and a fresh start. Aaron had a standout career at Florida, helping the Gators win the 2009 BCS National Championship and being recognized as a first-team All-American. With his stardom on the rise, he decided to forgo his senior season and enter the NFL Draft.

But several off-field incidents in Florida revealed that Aaron was making the same kinds of poor choices he had made in high school. He failed multiple drug tests and was charged with possession of marijuana. One night he got into a drunken fight with a restaurant employee after refusing to pay his bill, and a few months later, he and four other University of Florida players were questioned about a shooting.

Because of these and other issues, Aaron fell to the fourth round of the 2010 NFL Draft. He was signed by the New England Patriots, starting the 2010 season as the youngest player on any active roster in the NFL. He appeared to embrace this new start, playing three successful seasons with the Patriots and even helping lead the team to Super Bowl XLVI. Aaron was finally on his way to achieving his fairy-tale ending of fame, fortune, and Super Bowl titles.

Yet living so close to his hometown, Aaron was unable to resist going back to the gang life. Just ten months after he signed a $40 million contract with the Patriots in 2012, Aaron was charged with the murder of a friend, Odin Lloyd. After Aaron’s arrest, the Patriots released Hernandez from his contract. In 2015, Aaron Hernandez was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. He was later accused in two other cases, one for double murder and attempted murder and one for witness intimidation.

By 2017, Aaron’s success story was over. His money and career were gone. His endorsement deals were cancelled, his likeness was erased from popular video games, his award-winning photo was taken out of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, and his memorabilia and merchandise were removed from the University of Florida and NFL pro shops. He had few supporters or friends. As one commentator put it, “He was no longer Aaron Hernandez the Super Bowl tight end, the star of Boston’s nightclubs or even the celebrity defendant. He was just a 27-year-old convicted killer doomed to live his life in a prison cell.”¹