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

1. This is a wonderful and inspiring book that doesn't take long to read but stays with you for a long time.



2. If you are a history buff you'll enjoy Andy Andrews take on History as he gleans a piece of wisdom that may have carried them through the key moments of their lives. You can think about your own decision making process and see how you stack up. It was an enjoyable read.



3. 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.



4. 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!



5. 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.

5 comments about Treat Your Own Neck 4th Ed.

1. I had neck pain along with tingling radiating down my arm to my index finger. Having had extensive experience with clients who needed physical therapy, I was fairly certain I had a cervical disk bulge/pinched nerve. I knew the routine with orthos and physical therapists and wanted to avoid spending both the time on office visits and the money, if at all possible. I stopped my usual exercise routines to give myself time to heal, took anti-inflammatories for a couple of weeks, bought this book and followed it religiously, and purchased an arc4life cervical traction pillow. In a matter of a few weeks, the problem was completely resolved and has not returned several months later. I have absolutely no pain and no restriction of movement. It is vital that you not do more harm than good by overdoing and/or improperly doing the exercises. Of course, if I hadn't seen improvement, I would have consulted a doctor. (BTW, I still sleep on the pillow and highly recommend it. It gets you past that unhappy routine of backsliding in the healing process due to sleeping wrong on the injury. It can be uncomfortable at first, so ease into using it as recommended. It literally provides light traction to the cervical spine when lying on your back and, if you move to the proper location on the pillow, provides excellent support while sleeping on either side.)



2. I have a reverse curve in my neck and have suffered migraine headaches for 25 years. I have gone to a chiropractor on and off throughout the years which has always helped in the past. This past year I have experienced a significant increase in the number of migraines I suffer each month and therefore have looked for additional therapies (anything but drugs which have been suggested many times by my pcp). I stumbled across this book and spoke to my Physical Therapist and Chiropractor about it and they both thought that the postures you take during the exercises are radical but if done properly and slowly they can help. I believe that the exercises in this book have help with the alignment of my cervical spine. I have also purchased (on line) a cervical pillow with traction. I believe that between the exercises, the education regarding posture and the cervical pillow I am on the road to recovery (1 month migraine free). Hope this helps.



3. This works if....you do your homework. You may not be painfree but there will be a great improvement.



4. I am a 55 year old computer programmer diagnosed for the past 10 years with cervical spondylosis, which produces frequent and prolonged headaches. In my case, the medical community has been focused only on diagnosis (MRIs) and treatment (NSAIDs and muscle relaxants), not prevention. Over the years I have checked medical web sites for information, but just recently stumbled upon this book at Amazon. By following the common sense advice and exercises described by Dr. McKenzie, I am now headache and medication free. (My only advice is to go easy on the exercises when starting.) This tiny book is a miracle of Biblical proportions.



5. This book has excellent, easy instructions that really work. The exercises help to relieve most neck pains. Great pictures and easily understood information for anyone to use.

5 comments about The Alcoholism and Addiction Cure: A Holistic Approach to Total Recovery.

1. Beware of words like "total" and "cure"
   
   Alcoholism and drug addiction are diseases much like heart disease, lifestyle related. Anyone who makes high risk alcohol and drug choices can develop this disease. Some people have an increased biological risk.
   People can recover from these illnesses and live relatively normal lives. Some addicts and alcoholics, just like people with heart disease, don't follow their treatment and get sick again.
   
   Just like I am skeptical of books about weight loss, easy heart condition fixes and cancer cures, so I would also beware of a book that promises total recovery or a cure for a disease. These are the words of book sellers, marketing and profiteering, not science.



2. Great Book! A lot of really good information to help understand addictions, which in turn helps understand how to plot a course to overcome addictions. A lot of resources suggestions included.



3. this book was unimpressive to me. just a waste of money as very little in it is of much use.



4. The story that the son, Pax, wrote about his addiction and recovery was great. It rang brutally true. I was into the book and ready to see how they could translate their $50,000/month Malibu treatment plan to the masses. The answer? They can't. They recommend hiring a western medical doctor, a clinical pyschologist, a massage therapist, a nutrionist, an acupuncturist, a hypnotist, and a doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine as the minimum "holistic treatment team". They recommend going to clinical pyschologist at least 3 times/week. During a question/answer part of the book, it was asked "What if I can't afford all of this?" The answer? Ask to be treated for free. Tell them that they'd be part of a "Passages model team".
   
   Okay...
   
   My HMO pays for 10 counseling sessions per year with a social worker. And the copay for that is $40 per visit. Somehow I don't think I'm going to be able to assemble this psychological dream team without a load of cash and a lot of free time.
   
   Oh, and what should you do if your dream team doesn't live in your small town? MOVE to a big city (just for a month).
   
   I'm not a big fan of AA and their dogmatic religiosity, but at least they're free and close by!



5. It's not a disease but it can be cured? What's to cure then? only illnesses or diseases need cures. well normal conditions don't require a "cure." And if they are "cured" why can't they drink normally? If there is no disease, no alcoholism, why don't they serve wine at dinner? Once the "core issues" are cleared up and gone around day 15 of the $70,000 plus a month program they should be able to toast with a cocktail like normal folks can on occasion. I just don't see how a non-disease would require a cure and if there is no condition after 30 days why can't the residents drink normally like people who have never struggled with addiction? Isn't that what a "cure" is? A return to normal? If someone was completely cured of their peanut allergy wouldn't that mean they could eat a PBJ? If they can't drink safely doesn't that mean they are not cured of the disease they never had? And if they can't relapse why does Passages send residents home with sober companions and readmit them after they pick up a drink or drug again (what other places call a relapse)? Bit of a contradiction it seems.

5 comments about Letters to a Young Brother: MANifest Your Destiny.

1. I bought this book for my 17 year old son. I suggest anyone with a teenage son, good or bad purchase this book.



2. I have a 12 yr old son that has been going through some rough times at school with wanting to do well, but being teased for it. Junior High is/was/will always be a tough time. My son and I read this book together and then discussed anything we felt needed discussing. He started to feel "normal" knowing that a lot of people were experiencing the same things as him, even celebrities like Will Smith, someone he looks up to. I HIGHLY suggest this book to boys of any race. Thank you Hill Harper!!!!



3. Hill's book truly gives you words to live by. Realism, faith and hope in the future are the key themes of this book. As a reader, you are looking into the world of a young person trying and seeking to find his path. Gladly, Hill picks up the baton that was thrown to him by his mentors of the past and follows through by showing this youth a new way of thinking and living. His advice is so pure and genuine that it crosses the boundaries of gender and race--this is something that all folks need to hear! This book is the ultimate self help guide for those who have lost their way, need to find their way or need an affirmation that they are well on their way. Harper's words are definitely needed and should be cherished.
   
   Preach on Brother Harper! Preach on!



4. I brought this book as a gift for my twentysomthing brother. Who is a not an avid reader, but he enjoyed this book.



5. That one of favorite ACTORS, was not only a Brown and Harvard graduate but an awesome writer as well. After reading such high reviews on here I decided to order the book. I have 2 boys, 9 and 7, that aren't quite to the age level of this book, but they well definately be reading it as they approach their tween years. After reading it there is advise and pearls of wisdom that should be applied to adulthood, male or female. I love the fact that he talks on a level that is very relatable to young boys and that he gathers insite from known entertainers, which imo draws the youth in that much more. As many are raised by the TV, movies, and mush so something that their favorite actor/actress (Anthony Anderson, Ray J Gabreille Union, Sanaa Lathan) sports figure (Venus Williams, Curtis Martin), or rapper (Nas, David Banner, Ice Cube) says may come across as cool and strike accord with them. Presidential nominee Barak Obama even contributes. I just ordered Letters To a Young Sister, DeFINE Your Destiny, cant wait to start reading it.

5 comments about Adult Children of Alcoholics.

1. I will simply say that if you are an adult from an alcoholic or a dysfunctional family, READ THIS BOOK. It's short, sweet, and to the point. Lots of books meander around wasting your time with fluff. This one doesn't. Every sentence of this short dynamo is filled with practical meaning. If you are noticing a lot of caretaking, obsessive behavior, dysfunction in relationships, etc., you may be stuck in destructive behavior patterns and dynamics rooted in an alcoholic or dysfunctional family of origin. This book quickly rips to the point. I'm a recovering alcoholic and an addictions counselor. I recommend this book to my clients who invariably love it.



2. In it's time, and for a very -long- time, this was what we had to go on. Woititz understood the dilemmas, the lost decades of our lives, the confusion that swung us hither and yon, and the loss of grasp of ourselves and the world around us that overwhelms the child of confusing, invalidating, ignoring, abandoning and abusive parenting. Though she framed it as she did, it is clear now that the 12 Step movement that sprang from her book includes the children of such parents regardless of their drinking or other substance abuse habits... or -lack- of them.
   
   My own mother did not drink heavily until well into my own adulthood, but she was surely one of "them" throughout her life... and mine. She had Munchausen's by Proxy, and I was her medical punk. Today, I find it wholly and entirely possible to accept her as the daughter of those who confused the h**l out of -her-.
   
   Wotitiz's 13 generalizations have opened the eyes of hundreds of thousands. Her work opened the floodgates of self-identification for Claudia Black, Melody Beattie, Patricia Evans and Pia Mellody, all of whom picked up the torch she inherited from Bill Wilson and Jimmy Kannon... and carried it to millions in the much larger Co-Dependents Anonymous 12 Step framework, as well as to those in "ACA." In a mere 118 pages, Woititz handed down a platform for recovery, as well as self-recognition. Her other work since then has put wheels under that platform, of course.
   
   In 2006, the first- and second-wave veterans of ACA published another book by the same title currently available on from ACA itself. Building hugely upon Woititz's work, the new ACA "big red book" not only expands upon the original thesis and identifications, it takes them into territory Woititz and the psychophilosophers of her time were as yet far from. The new book is now, as the old book was then, breaking new ground in lay language similar to what we're hearing in professional language these days from Bruce Perry, John Preston, Neil Bockian and Glen Gabbard.
   
   The ACA "book study" meeting I attend in the Victoria-era, university town of Redlands, California, began with Woititz, and has since moved on to the new book. I'm glad we did it that way. The new book is a very, -very- stiff dose of personal reality. I recommend it, but it occurs to me that it is -such- a stiff dose of reality that working up to it with the original of this same title makes a lot of practical - and emotional - sense. Recovery, after all, is not an event so much as a -process-.



3. This book is a must have for those who are in a relationship with ACOA's. Without this reading it is nearly impossible to understand the complexities experienced by your ACOA growing up and how those experiences are potrayed in adult hood. After reading this you will realise there is hope.



4. I can remember very clearly that day in '75 when my dad came home from the grocery store with an enormous green jug of some kind of liquid and I, being only ten years old, innocently asked him, "What's that dad?" He just kind of smiled a me and said, "Oh, that? That's joy juice, Johnny."
   
   I just kind of laughed it off.
   
   By the time I was fifteen years old I began to notice how quickly that "Joy Juice" seemed to disappear. My dad would buy maybe three or four of them aweek and not only were they in the refridgerator but I also found them in his closet.
   
   By the time I was twently, I realized that that stuff my dad called "Joy Juice" did not really give him any kind of joy at all. In fact, the more of it he drank, the meaner he got...at least that was my perception. Maybe I noticed it more than my other siblings because for some reason I bore the brunt of his anger. I felt as though I was the source of all his disappointment and anger. I often felt guilty abut my dad's drinking. If only I stayed in college then my dad wouldn't have drank so much...if only I loved him more than he wouldn't need to drink...if only...if only...if only...I even thought that if I ended my own life, my dad's would be so much better.
   
   After a botched suicide attempt, I was literally thrown into the world of healing and recovery. A lot of the books that I read at that time came to me rather than me coming to them. Such is the case with this book.
   
   My eyes well up with tears when I think of this devastatingly beautiful book. It was the first book that told me what my condition really was; I was an adult child of an alcoholic. Those words were not a soothing balm. They sting just as much now as they did when I first read them.
   
   I remember thinking, but my dad can't be an alcoholic. My uncle was, that was for sure. They found Uncle Ralph dead in a South Carolina gutter. He never knew how to handle his life, but my dad was a brilliant man and an incredible English teacher who had won more than his fair share of awards. He was witty and charming and people loved him but my dad had more than a few demons wandering around in his psyche and when those demons got the better of him he was dark and lonely, insecure and afraid. He was running from something but I never quite knew what it was.
   
   This book made me so angry that I could only read a paragraph at a time at first. I often felt while reading it the urge to scream while still on other days I often found myself running to the bathroom and throwing up due to the stress I was feeling about confronting my own demons regarding my dad's alcoholism.
   
   But even though I was learning about my dad's illness - and that is exactly what alcoholism is, I was, at age 25, going to the bars with my best friend and getting drunk at least 4 nights out of seven and one night, I guess they call this a "moment of clarity" I looked at my friend(whose mother was also an alcoholic) after drinking my third Stoli's on the rocks and I said, "Hey, do you think we're becoming alcoholics like our parents?" He looked at me and just smiled, "Well, if we're not than we are kinduv wasting our money." And I looked at him and I just remember feeling partially frozen and partially horrified and I looked at that glass of vodka and back at my friend and said, "If that's the case, then I don't want to do this anymore." And I walked out of that bar feeling alone, scared, and yet willing to have my life completely change.
   
   I finally got through this book and then I read it again and again. I finally got the urge to attend an Al-Anon meeting and I stood up and said those words that often change lives, "My name is John and I'm the child of an alcoholic..." And the weight that came off my shoulders that evening was so incredible.
   
   Who knew I had wings? That was all I needed to say. That was all I ever needed to say.
   
   Last month my dad was admitted into the ER. His drinking had finally caught up with him. He had permanently damaged his central nervous system and has thrown his balance completely off. I sat with him at his bedside as he told the doctor that he only drank "a glass or two". At almost 81 years old, he's still lying. But his lies are more and more transparent. The doctor knew he was dealing with an alcoholic but I knew that this man laying in that bed was a brilliant teacher, a witty and charming man, a man who had his demons, a man who once completely terrified me and had me convinced me that I wasn't "good enough", a man suffering from the dis-ease of alcoholism and I just held his hand.
   
   I love this book but I am more than an adult child of an alcoholic just as the alcoholic is more than an alcoholic. We are all children of Love, of Life, of Light Itself. We all have wings and if we are willing to go through the darkness, we will find light...not by analyzing the darkness...but by admitting to ourselves that we are good enough to heal our lives and bring forth who we already are within.
   
   Peace and Blessings,
   john, "the Light Coach"



5. In her study of adults who as children were reared in homes where one or both of the parents were an alcoholic, Woititz discovered 13 characteristics of adult children of alcoholics. When I read the list, I thought: "Hey, 12 out of 13 ain't bad." Only later did I discover that had I been telling myself the truth, I'd have scored a perfect 100%. And all this with both of my parents total abstainers from alcohol. How come? In her introduction, Woititz acknowledges that after her study was completed, they discovered that the same characteristics (and solutions) also apply to children reared in homes where, for example, there was an individual with a disability, nonchemical addictions (i.e., work, sex, religion), or some other kind of obsession that demanded everyone else in the family fit in and around and aid that obsession. Although my parents have long since passed away, I still find the book helpful in understanding some of my behaviors that even I find bewildering. And in hope that it may benefit others who haven't yet come to see the forces that helped mold them into the person they are today, I've made this book a gift.

5 comments about The Master Key System by Charles F. Haanel.

1. This is a fantastic book that will take you on a mental journey and, if you are mentally prepared, change your life forever.



2. The publisher took the text of Charles Haanel and squashed as much of it as possible on each page. The margins are small, and the text is squished upon each other making it very hard to read. This layout and publishing is cheap. This is unfortunate because the material is phenomenal.
   
   I recommend the material.
   
   I DON'T recommend this book from this publisher.



3. Great book though it is not a "quick" read. Meant for each chapter to be read in weekly installments, which is a good idea overall to absorb the information. Worth it to know a more indepth proseperity philosophy.



4. I was not very impressed, after having read other reviews, I expected more. Think and Grow Rich or other books do better job in my opinion.



5. If you want to know more about your subc.I heartily recommend these CDs
   
   The Power of Your Subconscious Mind
   The Master Key System
   Thought Vibration or the Law of Attraction in the Thought World
   The Science of Getting Rich
   The Science of Mind
   Think and Grow Rich: Original Version

5 comments about The Layguide: How to Seduce Women More Beautiful Than You Ever Dreamed Possible No Matter What You Look Like or How Much You Make.

1. Has no structure, no step by step, just a collection of loosely related chapters, better to get "Mystery Method" that is the real deal.



2. I thought "The Layguide" by Tony Clink was pretty good but I have now found that "Dr Z on Scoring" by Dr. Victoria Zdrok, PhD is a much superior book on the subject. Dr Victoria Zdrok is a sexologist, dating coach and relationship advisor who is not only extremely intelligent but equally as beautiful. She is the only woman in history to be both a Playboy Playmate and a Penthouse Pet of the Year and she also holds a PhD in clinical psychology as well as a JD in law. She uses much more than just personal knowledge and education in writing her book as she also interviewed lots of beautiful and desirable women to determine just what these women look for in a man. After she collected and studied this information she was able to deduce what women really look for in a man. She then gives you a guild on how to attract women to you. Her writing style is enjoyable to read, funny and full of interesting and useful information. If you decide to buy just one book on this subject I'd highly recommend "Dr Z on Scoring", I'm sure you'll find it as worthwhile as I have!
   
   RDS



3. Since I've started reading the books from the Pick Up Community, I've seen a pattern in the basic ways to approach women: it's basically putting out all the good qualities associated with being a man.
   
   Be confident. Attentive, charming, humorous. Dress better, work on conversational skills. Maintain respect but also hold the course for seduction.
   
   All of this sounds simple enough but...I think I belong to a generation of broken homes where the battling, bewildered single parents didn't pass on ANYTHING useful to their children. Let popular music and TV guide you into the Tunnel of Love.
   
   And what a disaster that's been. (It also didn't help that social engineering tried to instill that boys and girls are essentially the same. How damaging has that been?).
   
   So these books, while initially provoking women to be offended that men will be taking advantage of them, end up being the education us guys never got.
   
   THE LAYGUIDE has a title that would suggest this book is about only seducing and taking advantage of women. I didn't really get that. (If you're looking for a book that not only writes in terms of women as only sexual objects but where to go and how much to spend on endless sex objects, that would be THE PROFESSIONAL BACHELOR. Especially the second half).
   
   THE LAYGUIDE is a smooth, well-written How To book on approaching women and moving into a relationship, whether for one night or the rest of your life.



4. This book is great, easy to read, and full of useful tips for anyone. It gives a variety of stratigies and points out a lot of the mistakes I was making prevouisly. Good hunting



5. Just kidding! I'm a woman, and I suppose I should feel shocked, disgusted and offended by this book, but I'm not. I daresay very few women are lured into bed against their will, regardless of the techniques men allegedly use. I'm sure I've lured as many men to my bed as they have me. Techniques are great, and use them if you must, but there is one sure way to keep your beautiful woman once you have gotten her in to bed. Read The Sensuous Couple's (Flip Over) Guide to Seismic Oral Sex. Book I is all about cunnilingus, and it will keep your woman coming back for more. This is the technique you should work on harder than you do your pickup technique. And if you make her happy enough, flip the book over to Book II, which is all about fellatio, and have her pleasing you as much as you are pleasing her. Now, that's a win-win situation!

5 comments about Clear Your Clutter With Feng Shui.

1. Gets at the heart of what's causing clutteritis, and then eases one into the traumatic process of parting with classic junque-stuff. The title is a fair precis of what the book is about.



2. I bought this book a year or so ago. It is really helpful and it is small and easy to read. Nice to have all the used copies now for many people. I bought it new. I like the way things are explained in the book. I did not realize how clutter can actually paralyze people. Now I do my best to keep the clutter under control. It gives you so much more energy to have the things you need, some items you enjoy and call it good.
   
   [...]



3. I am a professional interior designer and the clutter I've seen in my client's homes...! Clear Your Clutter with Feng Shui taught me a lot about the psychology of why people surround themselves with too much stuff. the book has been very helpful in enabling me to get my clients to get rid of their junk. Those that are in really bad shape I give a copy to. It really helps.
   
   However, other than the discussion on energy (which is very important,) this book lacks information on Feng Shui. I recommend Harmonious Environment: Beautify, Detoxify and Energize Your Life, Your Home and Your Planet, to fill that gap AND give you great information on greening your home.
   
   If clutter is your problem, buy this book!



4. I find the author to be an excellent motivator. After reading a few chapters, I easily embarked upon a long-considered but ever-postponed clearing of numerous, dense pockets of accumulated items throughout my house. I've gleefully filled so many boxes and bags in the last 3 days that my yellow Lab is showing signs of anxiety usually reserved for moving. So my husband and I have been doing our best to reassure her that the pack is staying put. And there's more house purging to come.
   
   What I found especially liberating was the section on dismantling the "keep it just in case" myth. I realized that I was holding incompatible belief systems in my mind: knowing deep down that the universe always provides for me and having constant evidence to prove it; yet offering up doubt in the form of holding on to items that were certainly useful in theory, but not in use in my home. When the "Maybe I should keep this" line reared its ugly head several times during the clear-out, I was able to challenge it successfully and allow the items to enter the "donate" box without stress or thoughts of future need of it. The mental clutter-clearing is a great benefit of the whole process, and it's been such a valuable opportunity to get in touch with the myths I've been carrying around regarding these objects. None of my previous justifications for keeping these items can hold up in my mind anymore. The sense of freedom in this is immense.
   
   Of course, with a stirring up of long-dormant objects comes a release of stuck energy. While I was expecting and looking forward to the increase in money flow, physical energy, business and creativity; there were some postponed decisions that suddenly required action NOW. Things came to a head, so to speak. All within a matter of hours of tossing and sorting. Be prepared for what I can best describe as a healing crisis of your whole life. Whatever has been on hold will surface and require attention; whether it's speaking your mind concerning something you've long been shy or silent about, dealing directly with a difficult friend or even culling superfluous animals from your farm.
   
   The interesting and amazing thing about all this, is that with the sudden surfacing of these issues is a fresh and clear viewpoint on the subject, as well as exactly the right words with which to articulate difficult feelings. At least that's been my experience. Whatever it is that requires addressing will present itself with clarity and urgency, if you really dig deeply and allow yourself to release the objects that have gripped you emotionally. Just tossing a pile of last week's newspapers will not yield this effect, but get them in the recycling pile anyway.
   
   While I've used feng shui for years with great results, this is not a book for someone hoping to learn the basics on the subject. Feng shui is mentioned throughout the book as far as how clutter affects the various areas of the bagua. That said, any attempt to "feng shui" a living space must be accompanied by clutter clearing to be truly successful. So it is an excellent companion volume to a primer on the basics. I haven't yet read her other book, but will put it in my cart today.
   
   If you're ready to take an honest look at what you've accumulated and why, and are willing to encounter whatever temporary fallout may ensue as a result; you'll find this little book invaluable.



5. I found this little book to be inspirational, useful and fun to read. It did get me started on the decluttering of 15+ years of accumulation. I now have more questions on Feng Shui and will be reading more on that subject however, this little book at least has sent me off into a flurry of much needed activity. It will be interesting to note what changes may come about in my life once the "clutter clearing" is done.

5 comments about The Courage to Heal - Third Edition - Revised and Expanded: A Guide for Women Survivors of Child Sexual Abuse.

1. People who have been abused and remember their abuse and have some evidence other than their own imagination can do much better than this book. They deserve our support as they move forward. The danger of this book is the potential for susceptible people to think that things that are not so good in their lives are the result of sexual abuse even though they don't remember it. They may "work" to remember and the pain and suffering of the person who is "remembering" and the people they accuse is like an atomic bomb going off. Our family has been the victim of a memory that supposedly was repressed for 40 years. There is NO supporting evidence and the pain of that accusation to the entire family is enormous! We are only now beginning to recover and the person who had the "memories" is suffering the most from the knowledge of the pain she caused. We love her in spite of all and are working to re-establish all the good things we shared in the previous years. Thank God for forgivenss!



2. this book is a great resource for survivors of sexual abuse. a perfect accompaniment is The Courage to Heal Workbook: A Guide for Women and Men Survivors of Child Sexual Abuse. the books have an appropriate level of overlap, but each is enough different from the other to make both very helpful and informative. they can be read in succession or simultaneously because they build on each other either way. the book breaks the healing process down into more manageable parts and begins at the beginning, which i find much more helpful than jumping right to "forgiveness" or "moving on." one caveat is that the book can be overwhelming for some people, and other treatment to break into the territory of recovery may be necessary first.



3. I read so many reviews on here that say that this book is filth and a horrible buy and that whomever is interested should seek professional help and advice. I am currently seeing a licensed therapist and conferred with her over whether or not this would help and she supported it 100%. Yes admittedly there is such a thing as 'bad therapy' where they foster and encourage mistaken beliefs of abuse but to throw ALL accounts of abuse into that category is nonsense and absolutely ridculous. The ppl that write these reviews are the same ppl that proposed the idea of 'false memories' If you remembered the abuse before you entered therapy then it is NO fault of the psychiatrist that you feel and think like you do. I am a sexual abuse survivor myself and I am absolutely appallled at the backlash survivors are getting when attempting to seek help. The authors prior occupation as a creative writer matters not in the fact that all this book is intended to be is a place to read excerpts from others like you. Its only purpose is to let you know that your not alone and that with work it does get better. People would sooner think your lying than face the fact that humanity breeds filth. I would recommend this book for anyone already seeing a therapist so that you can work together to work through it. The best advice on knowing if it happpened or not is to listen to your heart. Only you can know for sure, if it feels like it did than im sure that there is some truth to it. Do what you feel is best for you regardless of what you hear or read anywhere. Your never alone. Whichever decision you come too you are never alone.



4. I purchased this book to "heal" from sexual abuse at the hands of a boyfriend during my high school days. I've since realized that "healing" is a broadly-used term for a trendy concept. The authors, Bass and Davis, never really define healing. Well, maybe they don't because they aren't psychologists, psychiatrist, neurologists, or pastoral counselors. They really don't know what to say!
   
   Yes, this book includes A LOT of vulgarity. I do not believe that we need to be so vulgar when we're discussing sexual abuse. Especially when there are very sensitive women trying to read this book. The vulgarity comes off as "angry womyn" syndrome- don't we want to overcome that stereotype?
   
   Yes, this book is amateurish! The advice is very basic. If you've read other self-help and pop-psych books, you won't find anything new here. Observations of the obvious with "feel good" statements thrown in.
   
   No, this book does not promote forgiveness. Forgiveness has nothing to do with condoning the action. It means not allowing the memory of someone and his/her actions to live in your head forever. Check out the books by the Linn brothers for true forgiveness and healing, from a healthy, biblical perspective.
   
   Yes, this book promotes witch craft. Rachel Bat Or changes her name from Ruthann Theodore. To honor this changes, she holds a Neopagan ceremony. I do not recommend showing this to women, as many are too fragile to work through said ceremony without attracting negative energy. (Pagan lit states that you have to be in a certain frame of mind before rituals!!!) Also, be careful what spirits you invite into your circle- you could pick up very bad energy that plays upon your mind. NEXT, there's the troubling story of Kyos Featherdancing. The woman is bitter, angry, ugh! I don't think women will learn much from her- except how to create more anxiety, ulcers, depression, etc. Kyos, a Native American, follows in the religious footsteps of her pagan grandmother. Be careful that you don't misappropriate their culture and get involved in Native American rituals- you don't know what you'll conjure up.
   
   I was a little weirded out by grown women holding each other in their laps. That happens at workshops and it is recommended for survivors. It's also appalling that the others encourage women to confront their abusers w/o any evidence. Check out other reviews for how this goes against the constitution.
   
   This book will definitely appeal to Neopagan feminists who don't want to go through a healthy healing process. For women who reject traditional thought processes, want something intuitive, and don't want to play by the rules, The Courage to Heal is the book for them. That's why I give it 2 stars- it fits a niche. This book did not help me grow. I stuck with it, but threw it out after S.R. Benjamin's story.



5. I think this book has caused a lot of needless pain. I don't address these ideas to those who have always had memories of their abuse, however:
   
   Any book that encourages people to believe they were abused with absolutely no concrete evidence is DESTRUCTIVE. Any book that encourages people to get as angry as they possibly can, as sad as they possibly can, and let their abuse define them and take their lives over is destructive. This book has been successful because people feel empty and confused, and they need something to hang onto. How does it help to decide all your problems are caused by abuse in your childhood? This is NOT the answer.

5 comments about It's Called a Breakup Because It's Broken: The Smart Girl's Break-Up Buddy.

1. I thought this book was mean and harsh... If you just got your heart REALLY BROKEN don't get it. You don't need to be depressed more than you already are. It was written by a happy couple. Who wants breakup advise from a happy couple?



2. I was given, "He's just not that into you" after I left my ex because he couldn't commit to our relationship long-term. I recently broke up with another Man because our relationship was broken. Although I made the decision to end the relationship, and saw the writing on the wall, it was still an adjustment that caused me some mental anguish. I read the book hoping that it would inspire me to feel good, and it did just that. Some of the content is a little obvious, and I certainly didn't need those obvious questions answered, but it was truly enjoyable. If you've read "He's just not that into you" then you will not be surprised by the tone of the book. If you're reading this book because you need someone to tell you that you are in fact psycho if you are spending every waking moment stalking your ex, then maybe you need to seek some professional help!



3. What a truely amazing book!! I have to say I usually hate reading but I found this book to be very easy, a page turner and I finished it in a few hours and was looking for more!! Definately recommend it to ALL women



4. Other than the real encouraging, funny way that Greg and Amiira Behrendt tell these stories, they are all based on just common sense rules.
   Some might claim that it's not rocket science to know that you shouldn't call your ex, but the truth that when we are broken hearted, we can't even go through life, let alone using common sense.
   This book would be wonderful for you if you got out of the shock phase and got into the grieving stage. It might even help you understand that it's time to get out of the shock phase as it did to me.
   These sections of pure accurate symptoms don't apply to one gender; they apply to broken hearted people who had their dreams terminated, regardless if they were dumped or if they ended the relationship.
   I highly recommend this book to every body that went through putting themselves out there because they believed in love, now it's time to believe in yourself and know that you have so much to offer and as Greg and Amiira say: "remember, doubt means don't". Let's face it; we all had our doubts about relationships that later didn't work, doubts were there but blinded with love.
   
   Stop wondering why, there are simply no answers. As mentioned in the book, trying to figure out why will only lead to more hurt and more pain.



5. Not what I expected... Instead of making me feel better, it made me feel worse! When your heart is broken, the last thing you want to hear is "it's called a break up because it's broken" and "move on already!" said to you over and over again, as if it were as simple as making a sandwich!
   Instead of bringing the focus on yourself, and dealing gently with your heart and with pain in a constructive way, it brings more focus on the partner who "dumped" you, and what "loser" or "[...]" he is for doing this to a "super fox" (eesh!) like yourself. I highly doubt that building hate or frustration this way is of any good, just as I doubt that numerous break-up stories should make you feel better. It's the last thing you want to hear when your heart is aching. In those moments, you'd want to deal with the pain and understand the situation, and maybe being encouraged that there are wonderful men out there, that would love to be with someone like you!