5 comments about Simple Abundance: A Daybook of Comfort and Joy.

1. More than ten years on, the words of Sarah Ban Breathnach's Simple Abundance still ring true, as they whisper in ear, reminding us to be grateful and gentle with ourselves. Central to Sarah's message is that living a life with gratitude, indulging in small pleasures, and asking for Grace every day will bring miracles to our life.
   Sarah Ban Breathnach's wit and wisdom leads the reader gently on a path of self discovery. She doesn't ask you to make any dramatic changes to your life - she simply gives you some suggestions on how to improve the life that you've got.
   From the simple delights of a well-organised linen closet, to the process of creating an Illustrated Discovery Journal, Sarah reminds us of what we have always known - that appreciating the simple things in our life will open our eyes to a world of abundance.
   
   Review posted by Zara Stevens (Author - Boy Meets Girl: A Pocketful of Wedding Stories)
   Boy Meets Girl: A Pocketful of Wedding Stories



2. Simple Abundance, A Daybook of Comfort and Joy has been such a pleasure to read. It adds thoughtful consideration to facets of my life that have been overlooked for some time. I have found that this book has also opened up a dialog between my husband and myself as we read this together every evening before bed. I am learning to simplify my life and finding joy in that. What is left are the things (and parts of myself as well) that are truly precious. Being surrounded by THOSE parts of me, instead of the clutter of negativity, and unneeded STUFF, lets me truly feel the abundance life has to offer.



3. I was given this book while I was recovering from surgery and found it so comforting and inspiring that I have since purchased it for two friends who are also undergoing hard times with their health or families. It has helped us all to have a more positive outlook. This book has no beginning, and no end. You can read it starting anywhere, and you can read it forever!



4. I bought this book several years ago and never managed to keep up for more than a few days. This year I found out why. When trying to establish evening rituals to help with sleep, I began this book again. YOU MUST START AT THE BEGINNING. That's where I went wrong before. You can't just jump in on the day you happen to receive it. That said, you can start on Jan 1 any time you want. I did that in late Feb, and I've been "doing" two pages a day to catch up. I've followed the instructions and started a gratitude journal, and I've already seen small changes in myself and my attitudes. I'm more mindful of my words and actions, and I'm more conscious of the things I have to be thankful for. I'm looking forward to more changes and a richer life experience as I continue my journey through this book. It may not be for everyone, but if you're looking to live a more conscious, mindful life, this collection of essays and observations could just be the spark of change you're looking for.



5. I've read and reread this book so many times that I now know exactly where to look for passages about joy, self-acceptance, "homecaring," gratitude, simplicity, and so forth. The author has certainly done her homework in that the book is filled with pithy quotes, interesting information on a variety of topics, and biographical data on some famous and not-so-famous folks. Each day of the year, Sarah Ban Breathnach weaves this information in with her own words of insight and wisdom to create a delightfully uplifting book of inspiration and advice.

5 comments about The Traveler's Gift: Seven Decisions that Determine Personal Success.

1. The Traveler's Gift is excellent. Andy Andrews uses historical figures to demonstate the seven laws of success. The historical people that Andrews uses to teach the seven laws are for the most part common people who had been thrust into critical periods in history. One was a college professor whose courage in battle turned the tide of a war. Two were ordinary men who, against great odds, became President's of the United States. These two men were faced with the most critical decisions in the history of the Presidency.
   To find out how these ordinary people used the seven laws of success to make a mark on history, read this book. You will be thankful you did.



2. The Traveler's Gift is a fascinating combination of self-development principles and captivating fiction. How great is it to be able to learn wisdom from King Solomon and forgiveness from Abraham Lincoln? The author takes us on not only a historical journey but also one of self-discovery.
   
   Do you enjoy reading about self-development, history, time travel and/or a just want to escape into a good book? The Traveler's Gift; The Seven Decisions That Determine Personal Success by Andy Andrews has all that and more. There are great lessons for personal success, insights into significant historical events and a look into what it may have been like talking with inspirational figures. All this is blended with a well written "I can't put this book down" story.
   
   I found this book by accident and was very pleasantly surprised. I literally couldn't stop reading. The Traveler's Gift is a unique twist on the usual self-development lessons. The seven lessons of personal success became vivid and "real" in my imagination. Stories are a perfect way to learn how to apply abstract concepts to real life. I found myself saying, "You know he's right, I really should do that / be conscious of that more often."
   
   The central character, David Ponder was at a personal and professional crossroads in his life. An auto accident takes him back in time to converse with the likes of Christopher Columbus, Anne Frank and Harry Truman. Each inspirational historical figure has a life lesson to impart and success advice to share. It's a history lesson and self-discovery journey all rolled into one. When David awakes from the accident the world is changed and life has more purpose and greater meaning. The basics: When the going gets tough, the tough get going. David Ponder is just like all of us - searching to live a fulfilled and meaningful life.
   
   I was fascinated by this inspiring story. It wasn't preachy - it was entertaining. I've never read any quite like this, a self-development book that teaches so much more. I was literally transported back in history each time I read about one of the seven personal decisions. It was evident that the author did his history homework and historical research.
   
   If you are a fan of Og Mandino, as I am, you'll enjoy this book. It is written with an Og Mandino flavor.
   
   I read the paperback book although I understand the audio is exceptional. Andy Andrew's newest book is Mastering The Seven Decisions.
   
   Five stars from me - highly recommended. Sit back, relax and prepare to learn more about yourself with a little history thrown in for good measure. If I'm gushing I apologize but I really enjoyed The Traveler's Gift!



3. Andrews' THE TRAVELER'S GIFT reviews the seven decisions that lead to personal success, emphasizing and analyzing the difference between failure and success. David Ponder was a successful executive once, but feels like a total failure now: once an executive, he works a part-time, minimum-wage job and faces many crises. A life-threatening situation sends him on a journey of discovery in this inspirational saga.



4. Personally, I feel that this book does not deserve all of the negative reviews. I do agree that the message near the end about finding financial success is not very humble, since Jesus says clearly to his disciples in the parable about the landowner, "So the last shall be first and the first shall be last." I think this is a terrible book for new Christians who need to learn to be humble, but good for seasoned Christians who know how to take such books with a grain of salt. And there are some good Christian messages in the book. What about when Truman says, "Until a person takes responsibility for where he is, there is no basis for moving on." Isn't this what is needed for confession of sins? Or the obvious message from King Solomon to "seek wisdom," a frequent God-inspired message from him throughout the Bible.
   
   If readers are seeking a book to find sound Christian advice about living a successful life, start with the Bible, God's help book for Christians. The very idea of "self-help" goes against what Christ asks of us anyway. But if you're looking for a good read that plays around with the neat idea of meeting some of the most memorable historical figures, peppered with some really good advice about the power of attitude, then this book is a good read.



5. I had heard about this book and had it on my "to read" list for sometime but was in no hurry to purchase it. One of my friends had read it and told me how highly he thought of it, so I moved it up the priority list.
   
   I don't normally read fictional books, but this one was very good and I appreciated it when using it from a "self-help" growth book as the lessons the book provided I feel are extremely beneficial.
   
   The lessons, which are seemingly simple that we should all know and apply, I feel were made stronger and possibly more 'memorable' by having them applied in the form of the story that was told. The use of historical figures to deliver the individual lessons appealed to me as well.
   
   The book was a quick read and I found myself highlighting many pages for comments that really hit home. Statements such as "...while public opinion might sway back and forth, right and wrong do not" really stood out to me and I don't think it was necessarily because I filtered the line through the current political election mindset we're in.
   
   In the end, I feel that this should be part of everyone's "to read" list of books.

5 comments about The Power of Now: A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment.

1. This book offers a refreshing insight into the mind that you wont get from society. Simple to read and deep with reason, Eckhart has delivered the philosophy of the new decade.



2. I thoroughly recommend this book...it explains why we humans act the way we do and it gives easy to read ideas to change old stuck patterns in order to bring total harmony and peace to your world and relationships. It explains what is happening in the world and why we are experiencing the things we are. Acceptance is the key, let go and heal your life. I am priviledged to have read this book....it is part of life's lessons.



3. Power of now is the life changing book for many, nothing more than repeating same thing for many other. It all depends on our mental acceptance to understanding something new thought and experianceing who really we are.
   
   This book make more sense, if you practice meditation or life circumstances force you to so low that, you give up fighting your fear, thoughts or pain body suddenly.
   
   You can break past patterns of your life, you can see life more appreciting than what we thought, we realize we are sprititual beings experiancing human being.
   
   
   If you like reading this, I also recommend "New Earth" from same author.
   
   Some steps I felt I need to follow to be with being or now.
   1) Know who are not.
   2) Know your pain body (or all painful thoughts of past or future)
   3) Know the difference between inner voice and you. Identify, how it's controlling you so far.
   4) Know how inner voice or pain body thought keep trying to entertain you, the moment you accept it. How it vanish in thin air, when put attention or focus on it.
   5) Continue practice Now by focusing on your body sensations or circumstances, instead of going with inner thought.
   6) Understanding that, focus on now comes with out much thought now.
   7) This is begnning of end of compulsive thinking of pain body. Attaining oneness with being, peace, stillness, joy of being.
   8) Continue your practice power of now, after some time, you no longer needs to practice. You become being and live in now. N'joy the life form of you.



4. This book is a great introduction to living a peaceful life with a quiet mind. After reading this book my interest in achieving what Chopra discusses became very strong and since then I've continued down a more spirtual path. The concepts here are super simple, yet made complicated by the extreme power of the noisy mind.



5. One of the best books You could read in Your lifetime. The author is the " Real Deal ! ".

5 comments about The Secret Lives of Men and Women: A PostSecret Book.

1. This book was a definite relief from the crappy second book. Although it is still only half the size of the first. The second book and this one should have been combined. The better secrets in this would have made up for the stupid ones in the second, and it would have been a more worthwhile length. Anyway, thus book is worth buying.



2. You can not go wrong with any Post Secret book. I love our secrets that are so real to us. This book reminded me that I am not alone. I love his collections and you, the senders, work.



3. What a great book. It's amazing to see the other secrets people are carrying, hidden from their family and friends. If you like PostSecret, you should check out SecondChanceOnline.blogspot.com, where people anonymously post regrets they've had.



4. Is there anyone left on earth who doesn't know about these books, the blog, or the website? If so, where have you been? Out of all the coffee table books I've read in the past, the PostSecret series is the very best of the best. I haven't viewed all of them, but will. That's a promise.
   
   THE SECRET LIVES OF MEN AND WOMEN is probably the least favorite of the book thus far. Maybe because it was so thin compared to the other two.



5. ive been a follower for the postsecret project for a while now and i love the books that theyve produced with some never-before-seen secrets in there.

5 comments about The Age of Miracles: Embracing the New Midlife.

1. THIS BOOK IS VERY WELL WRITTEN...WITH LOTS OF GREAT INSITES INTO THE MIDLIFE STAGE OF AGE.
   I HAVE GREATLY ENJOYED READING IT AND HAVE TOLD ALL MY SAME AGE FRIENDS...THIS BOOK ISN'T JUST FOR WOMEN, IT REALLY GIVES LOTS OF LITE HEARTED AND EBRICHING INFO. AS WELL AS WONDERFUL ADVICE ON LOOKING AT A NEW LIFE NOT A OLD ONE! LOVED IT!!



2. I found that listening to the book during a morning drive to work always left me in a postive light. I believe that it is a good reminder to each of us.



3. Marianne Williamson's latest book will uplift many who need to know and understand that reaching 40, 45, 50 and beyond is not the end of the world as they know it. Marianne's dry wit and own experiences help the book along but her profound understanding of the way women think and her intense knowledge of A Course in Miracles glues the whole thing together, allowing for an inspiring read that re-ignites any flames that may have gone out in your life (or perhaps ignites flames that had never been lit!).
   
   I love the way Marianne sees mid life as the opportunity for a second (and sometimes a third) puberty... finally reaching the point in our lives where our personalities have matured enough to know how to handle the opportunities and challenges that we are faced with every day. Retirement is less about stopping work and more to do with finding and doing what is really our passion. At 40 or 50 we have (God willing) another 40 or 50 years to discover that passion and live it, knowing that all the experiences in previous careers and relationships with others have brought us to the point where we now, hopefully, know what to do with it all.



4. Pleasant enough and upbeat, but when she quoted Werner Ehrhardt (founder of EST) in the introduction, I knew I'd made a mistake. I started looking around for her credentials and couldn't find any credentials of any sort. A good friend could give an equally good or better pep talk. Not very promising, so I sent it back.



5. Fairly good Delivery - Book arrived Excellent Condition.
   Thank You, Diane Cogswell Mill Valley, CA

5 comments about How to See Yourself As You Really Are.

1. As a beginner in Buddhism, this was the first Buddhist book that I read. Before reading this, I had heard of many ways of Buddhist thought through small online writings, but His Holiness' 'How to See Yourself As You Really Are' truly helped me to gain a more meaningful understanding of impermanence, dependent arising, and compassion.
   I suggest anyone new to Buddhism and still confused read this book.
   Also, I'm currently reading His Holiness' 'The Way to Freedom' and I feel as if It's the perfect thing to read along with 'How to See Yourself As You Really Are'.



2. The contribution of Delai Lama's writing's in this century may give the world a significant change as it struggles in material pleasures of life. May his message of love and peace win over human suffering and bring about a positive change in people.
   
   Author of "A Hot Pot of Roasted Poems"
   Editor of "The Blue Fog Journal"
   Rohitash Chandra



3. This was a wonderfully insightful book that challenges you to take a hard look at the "true you". It makes you think on the choices you have made in life, and where you want to go from where you are now. I found this book very enlightening and found great peace in it's reading. I learned many things about myself that I feel have made me want to be a better person, and I believe it has helped put me on that path. I recommend this title to anyone looking for self awareness.



4. Like a few other reviewers, I am in the beginning stages of my practice of Buddhism, and I have struggled with some of the concepts I have read about from other authors, lamas, and practitioners. However, when I read this book by the Dalai Lama, the veil was lifted from my eyes and I literally felt the sudden rush of understanding. Never have I meditated on a topic so deep and full of mystery and felt that it had been explained so thoroughly and with such clarity.
   
   The pages just fly by as you get lost in your own thoughts - your world will be literally turned upside down as you proceed through the chapters. This book will have you thinking long after completion and will allow you to experience your life through completely different (and more compassionate and understanding) eyes.
   
   Highly recommended for experienced practitioners, as well as beginners like me who wish to grasp an extremely deep and insightful concept that will not be explained with better clarity.



5. This is an inspiring and practical book with exercises to live lovingly in the world.

5 comments about The Power of Positive Thinking.

1. This is a very Inspirational book. It's an easy read and will give a much needed attitude ajustment to those who adhere.
   Arrived on time as promised and in good condition.



2. As a book on positive thinking, this is *the* book to read.
   
   However, you don't become successful by positive thinking
   alone. You need negative thinking sometimes. When buying
   a stock, you need to look at the risks. You sometimes need
   creative thinking in your work. You need to think about
   how others will think, feel, and perceive your service or
   product.
   
   Therefore, as a thinking skill book, it only covers one aspect.
   I think the title is appropriate.
   
   I don't consider this a Christian book but a thinking skills book.
   
   Note: I'm referring to the original version. This is the miniature
   version according to other reviews. Amazon got them
   mixed up.



3. This is a cute little book that we keep in the bedroom and just flip through every once in a while! It has some really nice "food for thought" in it. Quick motivation



4. I was looking for a read that would inspire and propel me forward at a time when my life was somewhat less than 'light and breezy'. I learned that Norman Vincent Peale was the seed for many of the current popular self-reflection books and decided to start with "The Power of Positive Thinking". I am not disappointed in my selection of this book but it is certainly not a quick read or a page turner. I find that I must put the book down and reflect on the message which is uplifting and reassuring ... just what I needed. I have actually passed the book onto a friend for that very reason.



5. This was a gift from my parents. Such a great book and very helpful with life's issues. Definitely a book that can be read multiple times when needed.

5 comments about This I Believe: The Personal Philosophies of Remarkable Men and Women.

1. A book that is worth the words that they are written on. Personal beliefs are unique due to individual lifestyles which are reflected by the inspirational essays making up this book. Spend your money and you will be very glad you did.



2. Short stories that share the reality and persistence of the common American. Some really hit home. Others are lighthearted and yet profound.
   Recommended.



3. Great collection from ordinary to famous people - from the series titled "This I Believe" on Public Radio. Bought as a gift to inspire a young writer.



4. I have to agree with another reviewer...this is banal and boring. Most of the essays are highly repetitive (i.e. be good to others, have faith in God, be a good role model, make peace not war...blah,blah,blah). Sure, people have a right to their beliefs and I do not presume to argue against those; nonetheless, the beliefs are uninspired and typical, revealing little more than "Wow, we all want the world to be a better place, and it can only come about if you believe what I believe."
   
   This ties into my final point: virtually all of the essays had a didactic tone. Growing up in the midwest, I have no desire to be taught what I should believe.



5. I bought this for my dad for his birthday a few months ago because I consider him to be a remarkable person as well. He thoroughly loved it and is having my mom now read it. If my dad says it's good than it is so.

5 comments about The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success: A Pocketbook Guide to Fulfilling Your Dreams (One Hour of Wisdom).

1. I first purchased this book in 1995 and have read it countless times since. This is my go to book. When I am feeling down or feel that the things are getting too heavy, this book helps every time. It contains all the principles that one needs to live a rich and balanced life. The Law of Pure Potentiality has stuck with me from the first time that I read it and continues to provide me strength to believe in myself.
   
   The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success is easy to read and the wisdom that it contains is presented in a format that makes understanding the laws effortless. I enjoy each time I read it.
   
   Hemp Eco Friendly Dog Bone Toy: Blue (Small)Organic Quilted Car Seat Cover: TanRobbie Dawg Organic Dog Biscuits: Peanut Butter & Carrot6" Knitted Fabric Dog Toy with Squeaker: Aoki (kitty)Zisc Flying Disc Dog Toy: TangerineLenny Lizard Organic Plush Dog Toy with Squeaker: PinkMarmalade Cheeky Chaise Cat Bed



2. The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success have a lot of good concepts to carry the listener through to the approximately hour-long recording on each of two CDs. Chopra talks about developing detachment as a way to obtain the best out of life. One of the many concepts he talks briefly about is that attachment to money will not bring about security and happiness. He doesn't go into too much detail about each of the concepts because then we'd be buying 100 CDs. He does a good job of pulling the important complicated concepts and putting them into everyday words so that I understand what he's talking about.
   
   This CD has a lot of philosophical, abstract concepts, so I listen to it over and over to digest and apply the concepts. In terms of a practical point of view, Chopra's diction is clear and his presentation is neat and well organized.
   
   Overall, I think this CD is worth the cost.



3. The book may be short and small, but the Spiritual concepts in it are very big. Spirituality has to be practical to have any real meaning in our lives, and most Spiritual books explain concepts in esoteric terms, but give no explanation of how to apply them in our every day lives.
   
   This book gives clear and concise concepts and follows up with how to apply them in your daily life. Not to be missed!



4. This little book is about creating the affluence effortlessly by unleashing your potential. The capabilities of every human are boundless, including the capabilities to create wealth. Deepak Chopra, the author of this book, is an Indian medical doctor and writer. He has written extensively on spirituality and diverse topics in mind-body medicine. Chopra says that he has been influenced by the teachings of Vedanta and the Bhagavad Gita, as well as by Jiddu Krishnamurti, and by the field of quantum physics (although in this particular book there are no references to quantum physics). You can skim through this book regularly to check on how are you succeeding in the following areas:
   - non-attribution;
   - refraining from judgments;
   - cease to defend your point-of-view or your "self-esteem"
   - doing things with the least possible efforts,
   All the things above mentioned, as well as the other mentioned in this book, lead to wealthy and healthy life.
   
   I also recommend another book by Deepak Chopra: "Creating Affluence", in addition to this book.



5. Chopra as a coach shows you seven steps which puts you on a spiritual path that leads you to success and prosperity. Having studied with Deepak Chopra, as I read his books, I can hear his resonant voice revealing the treasures found simply employing spiritual wisdom.
   
   Healing the Rift
   
   There should be no rift between a spiritual path and success and, indeed, Chopra reveals the surest laws of success. But it is a challege to first understand the laws but to practice them will eventually get you to your prize.Healing the Rift: Merging Science and Spirituality

5 comments about An Hour to Live, an Hour to Love: The True Story of the Best Gift Ever Given.

1. I purchased two of these little books online, one for my Mother and one for my Husband. I wanted my Mom to fill out one and return it to me, the other I planned on giving to my Husband on Father's Day.
   This is one of those times I wished I'd looked over the book in person first. They are pretty, but not functional. The blank pages at the back, where you are to write your own message to a loved one, are much to small. I would suggest that if you wanted to present a longer message to a loved-one, you would want to buy a "journal" type of book that is already blank, yet bound with a pretty cover. "An Hour to Live" just won't work.
   Also, I felt as if I were reading something very personal from a husband to a wife, or someone's diary without their permission. That was a turn off for me.



2. When I first open the, I knew it's going to be good. But as I read on, I will have to say, that the book is great! I admire the widow and her children for the courage and love that they have for each other. I have not even made it to the second paragraph and I just started bawling my eyes out. The part where they were at a beach watching the sunset while her tears rolls down her face was something I had placed myself to and felt her pain. I wished that the book went on, I love it so much, very touching. It's a message to all, that no matter life without true love is meaningless. Thank you very much Mrs. Carlson for sharing us your wonderful experience with Mr. Carlson. Thank you and I admire your soul!



3. An inspiring and profound reading. Can't help considering one's own mortality and preparation for that day. A reference booklet for one's life......



4. I discovered "An Hour to Live, an Hour to Love" by Richard and Kristine Carlson, on Amazon.com after purchasing "The Last Lecture" by Randy Pausch. I enjoyed both books and highly recommend them. There are significant differences in both books even though they are dealing with the final stages of life ... while giving heartfelt thoughts to loved ones left behind.
   
   While Randy Pausch knew he was dying, Mr. Carlson's book was more a hypothesis, which became a sudden reality three years later after giving letters of love to his wife on their eighteenth wedding anniversary. Some among us have chastised the authors because of the simplicity of their messages. I beg to differ. The complexity of thought is not important. I have often felt profound ideas and exquisite prose ... reveal their points without obfuscation. What can be more powerful, practical, and poetical, than this quote from Mr. Carlson? "You will be remembered most not from your accomplishments in life, but for how well you lived and how much love you carried in your heart".
   
   Mrs. Carlson answers him back (hypothetically) with her own thoughts on paper. The letters between these two marvelous people are sensitive, compassionate, and almost too personal to read. She has elected to share them with fans of Mr. Carlson's work for the greater good of society. I for one am thankful for the privilege.
   
   Initially I was going to write this review from another perspective. I thought by focusing on his death, the author created a self-fulfilling-prophecy; until I read this quote from Mrs. Carlson: "I never dreamed I would be able to live an hour without Richard and truthfully after an initial death wish upon learning that that hour was now, the image of my daughters came to me, I knew I had to and I would go on." It reminded me in a meaningful way ... we, all of us, need to serve (and love) something greater than ourselves. Therein lies the wisdom of the message and the poignancy of the book. Reviewed by: Reginald V. Johnson, Upper Saddle River, NJ



5. SPEAKS FROM THE HEART. WISH EVERYONE IN THIS SITUATION COULD PUT THEIR FEELINGS INTO WORDS AS ELEGANT.