By Janet Baker
from Salem Monthly, Section Word
Posted on Sun Nov 30, 2008 at 06:56:02 PM PDT
Some people seem to glide through difficulties and exhibit “grace under fire.” Other people struggle with seemingly minor difficulties. Unfortunately, I was one of the latter; a person who struggled with trivial matters which adversely affected me for days. I didn’t want to live my life this way and knew I had to make a choice. Did I want to continue with this behavior and be dragged through life kicking and screaming or did I want to go through life with peace and joy? The decision was mine, and I chose peace and joy.
Perhaps some of these books will help you on your life’s journey.
“Forgiveness: The Greatest Healer of All” by Dr. Gerald Jampolsky
Dr. Jampolsky, the founder of the Center for Attitudinal Healing in California, is a lecturer and the author of several books. His work is heavily influenced by “A Course in Miracles,” a self-study program which is based on the forgiveness of self and others. This practical and easy-to-read book shows how the power of forgiveness can change lives.
“Forgiveness Is a Choice: A Step-By-Step Process for Resolving Anger and Restoring Hope” by Dr. Robert Enright
Dr. Enright, a professor at the University of Wisconsin, is considered a pioneer in the scientific study of forgiveness. He states that “Forgiveness has a way of cutting through anger, anxiety and depression, and restoring emotional health,” This self-directed guide leads the reader through the four stages of forgiveness: uncovering anger, deciding to forgive, working on forgiveness, and discovery and release.
“Words of Gratitude for Mind, Body, and Soul” by Robert A. Emmons &
Joanna Hill
Dr. Emmons is a professor of psychology at the University of California whose interests include the psychology of gratitude and personal goals. He has studied gratitude and his research has shown that a grateful person experiences more positive emotions, satisfaction, and optimism. This book explores gratitude through essays, research results, poems, and teachings from different religions.
“Giving Thanks: The Gifts of Gratitude” by M.J. Ryan
M.J. Ryan is the author of several books on gratitude and was co-creator of the “Random Acts of Kindness” series. This book celebrates through beautiful photographs and thought-provoking quotations and ideas the gifts present in our everyday lives.