Description:
Like a musty old house cluttered by years of knickknacks, personal relationships deserve a good "cleaning out" more often than most couples realize. So espouses Janet Luhrs, author of the bestselling Simple Living Guide, in this inspirational collection of intimate profiles, poems, detailed tips, and resources for nurturing one's most precious relationships--not just that with one's partner but with children and other family members as well. She begins by exploring the "special closeness" experienced by deeply satisfied couples who have simplified their lives. Identifying "the examined life, the examined relationship" as a commonality among these folks, she parses loving relationships into three elements: the individual, the couple, and the couple as it relates to the outside world. Luhrs draws from a multitude of sources to help the reader consciously define, honor, and balance these three critical pieces; the result is a beautifully written tool for fostering more genuine and sustainable relationships. The first section, "It Starts with Me," teaches gentle lessons on tuning into oneself. A critical look at values, including forgiveness, compassion, and trustworthiness offers the reader a firm, authentic foundation on which lasting relationships can be built. Section 2, "Being Together," illustrates the need for simplicity and sanctity within a home; details abound regarding feng shui, igniting the physical senses, and treating the relationship as its own entity. Throughout the book, Luhrs quotes ancient and contemporary philosophers, novelists, and of course, the successful couples she has interviewed extensively. Excellent resource guides accompany each chapter. Whether preparing for a new relationship or hoping to recharge a simmering one, readers who appreciate an array of practical and spiritual guidance will find plenty within these loving pages. --Liane Thomas
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