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Summary: Daily Doses of Pleasure
Review: I found the essays in Simple Abundance applicable and entertaining. I read this book in 1998 and when I missed a few days I eagerly caught up on the days I had missed. While I am not a gardener, or much of a cook, I read Sarah Ban Breatnach's essays on domesticity for their approach to life and living it to its fullest. I found the writing sentimental, poignant, humorous, and earthy. I have purchased this book as a gift for friends and have shared my copy with my mom. I am looking forward to 2000 when I will re-read this simply profound daybook.
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Summary: Best book I own
Review: I have gone back to read portions of this book more times than I can count. It always reminds me to appreciate and take care of myself when the world has me running around in circles. This is a fabulous gift for (yourself) or someone you care about that seems to be looking for answers in their life. Sarah Ban Breathnach has a humurous and "authentic" way of helping you to look at yourself in a way that you could never do on your own. How to appreciate yourself as you are now, but to never stop improving and growing. Although the book is set up to read one section per day, I read the whole thing in 2 days. It is a really mind-opener, and actually contains useful tools for everyday life.
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Summary: For those with Clutter
Review: I was recommended this book by a therapist. Because of this book, I now live a life of non-clutter. It's amazing how clutter can make you feel miserable, and you don't even know it! If you're the type of person who has so much "stuff", and would feel incredibly guilty discarding this sutff, you will learn the three questions to ask yourself as whether to keep this item or not--without feeling guilty. This book also helps you understand how the simplist things in life can make you feel so good. You'll be glad you read this.
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Summary: Get ready for a little introspection...
Review: I was given this book as a gift and looked at it as a nice addition to my book collection...but as Career Planning and Development Host for BellaOnline, and as someone who had managed to "lose herself" in caring for others, as I read this I realized that I had been given an indispensable tool in helping rediscover myself! So many of us spend time as caregivers for others, always taking care of the family, the house, work... we often have a tendency to lose ourselves in the process. This wonderful daybook, designed to be read and worked through one day at a time instead of digested in one sitting, gives you the tools, and yes, the permission, to take the time to search inside yourself. Remember, take what you need out of it - you don't have to get caught up in the sections that are not you (I will never have a perfectly clean house so I didn't focus on that area, and that is fine!)... but you will be able to find out more about who you are. As a college instructor for employability and lifeskills, I would also add that many of these activities are used both in classes and in coaching to help students and clients discover their true passions. Well worth reading - even more worthwhile if you are willing to actually do some of the exercises. Take a little time each day for you - you are worth it!
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Summary: Not just for Women
Review: My mother has recently given me the book in light of my present personal crisis. I must say that so far, this timeless spiritual guide is not just for women but for persons in search of a new perspective in life. It gently reforms your outlook towards happiness and peace. In many occasions, I find it difficult not to read ahead. I find the Gratitude Journal to be very uplifting when I incorporated it in my daily life. Altogether, I am looking forward to giving a friend in need the wisdom of appreciating this book.
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Summary: Finding one self and fulfilling a dream
Review: After being in an abusive relationship for ten years, I had feelings of hopelessness. I had no positive outlook about anything and the thought of a 'future' was slim to none in my eyes. I have always wanted to be a writer, but the misery that I was living in kept me from having a clear mind and my thoughts were jumbled and disoriented. In 1997, my parents bought me Simple Abundance. I read it, reread it, and read it again. I followed Sarah's suggestions and participated in all that she suggested with the wonderful inspiring activites she offered in the book. My book was published in May 2003! I have a wonderful marriage with my 'new' husband and am living my life as it is suppose to be. I am living the life God intended me to live. Thanks to Sarah Banbreathnach for sharing her insights and taking the time to write such a wonderful book that has changed a lot of lives for the better.
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Summary: Already a joy to read
Review: This book gives a daily passage of comments and questions that encourage the reader to look within themselves for inspiration and strength. I bought a copy of this book for me and a copy for my best friend for Christmas. We promised not to read ahead and bought ourselves journals to write our thoughts in after reading the day's passage. Although it has only been a few days into the book, my friend and I have already found tremendous value in this book. We have both been going through major changes and I have been going around in circles regarding certain decisions in my life. After reading the passages and writing in my journal, I am able to look within myself to find the answers that I need. I do have the strength within and this book is part of my inspiration.
Rating:
Summary: Daily Dose of Happiness and Insight
Review: This book is a must! It has and is helping me through my soul searching. Ms. Breathnach talks about the common sense in a women's life. It's so simple that you yourself are sometimes blind to the simple pleasures. It's straightforward and enjoyable to read. I sometimes find myself reading a day ahead. I feel it's a big step towards being a better woman/human. She helps you find peace within you. I consider myself a good Christian & this book does not dismiss Christianity. The mix of Christianity and this book have made me more spiritual. I've given this book many times as a gift. I strongly recommend this book to any woman that feels she's missing something in her life.
Rating:
Summary: still solid
Review: Altho the author has exhibited "flaky" behaviour lately, this book remains a daily companion.
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Summary: A Joy for all seasons!
Review: I've owned this book for nearly 5 years, and my hardcover edition is marked up, highlighted, and truly loved! I have followed Simple Abundance for many seasons, and always seem to find something new in it whenever I pick it up again. When I first bought it, I picked it up in the middle of the year and followed it daily. Now, I use it randomly -- and it still "speaks" to my heart and mind. I can't thank Sarah enough for giving me permission to enjoy my home, and, well, my life as a woman. She has introduced me to many wonderful authors that I would NOT have found without her guidance. In fact, many of the books I've purchased here on amazon.com, have been introduced to me in Simple Abundance. This is a wonderful path. The encouragement in these pages is life-affirming, and I would LOVE to see a beautiful 10th Anniversary edition to replace my well-worn and well-read copy!
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