Do you ever get a new book that you feel you must read right away, even if you are in the middle of another book? That happened to me this past weekend, when this arrived on my doorstep:
In this after-Christmas-before-Valentine's Day-time, I feel the need for joy. Our Christmas tree is still standing, barely a needle dropped, so it will be a bit sad to lose such a splendid display of greenery (and that wonderful piney scent!) this week. Reading The Book of Joy brings a lightness to my thoughts as I listen in to the conversations between His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu. The narrative by Douglas Abrams, who is both observer and director of these conversations, rounds out the story by filling in the sensory details and offering his own perspective. I can see and hear the two spiritual giants playfully bantering on the nature of joy and happiness while acknowledging the pain and suffering that coincides with our humanity.
The Book of Joy is a wonderful read before bedtime, soothing to the soul. What are you reading before bed these post-holiday evenings?
It sounds like an interesting book. My friend and I picked Celebrate as our word for this year in an effort to focus on what we accomplish and the good things around us.
ReplyDeleteI know that I've often struggled in the weeks following Christmas, it's like a hangover after all the excitement and joy of the season. Winter is still yucky, and there's nothing to look forward to for ages! What a perfect time for a book all about finding, creating and sharing joy.
ReplyDeleteOh my goodness, I have this book on my nightstand - I have to get on it this evening as it sounds like such a comforting read that I so need right now.
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