If You are a Reader and a Meditator These Books may Speak to You

During the past few years while Hubby was in the throes of alcoholic decline and also afterwards, there have been several books that have "spoken" to me profoundly about what I experienced then and experience now. None of them have been 100 percent what I am all about but they have at least made me go "Hmmmmm...." and given me food for thought.

Most of these books have a religious component to them as their writers have primarily been Christians (some are priests and ministers) or have a Christian focus to their lives. This might make them not your cup of tea but I encourage a look at them anyway - just 'bleep' past the Jesus parts if you are so inclined and concentrate on the ideas of healing, slowing down, being mindful...

1. Basically any book by Anne Lamott - but most recently her Stitches and Small Victories for the most secular work and Help, Thanks, Wow for a more religiously-focused book. Lamott's talent for me seems to be that she has the ability to articulate the very things that I have been thinking about but do not know how to discuss with any fluency.

2. Many of the books by Walter Brueggemann - Brueggemann is a theologian but his philosophy that he derives from his study of the Scriptures contains universal truths and helpful words. When I read Brueggemenn I find myself constantly saying "Ah, that's right! Why did I not think of that?" Most recent texts of note: Reality, Grief, Hope: Three Urgent Prophetic Tasks, Remember You are Dust and Sabbath as Resistance: Saying No to the Culture of Now. All contain a universal message of stepping back and assessing and meditating on circumstances.

3. The Inner Voice of Love: A Journey Through Anguish to Freedom by Henri Nouwen - Nouwen was a priest and this is a journal he wrote through a very difficult period of his life. Once again - lots of "God stuff" but many universal truths.

4. The Prophet by Kahlil Gibran - this was the book that every person who graduated from high school and/or college in the 70's and 80's received as a present. Has kind of a "hippy dippy" reputation but really speaks some universal truths. I was reminded of this golden oldie a few days ago in a women's book discussion group I attend.

So that is a short list for now. Please add books / writings that have helped you in the journey with your particular alcoholic/addicts. And be at peace.