I didn’t grow up with a love of books, far from it. I used to feel nauseous every time I entered a library. In University I mastered the art of skim reading and using the very new tool called “the Internet” to do all my research. I did read a book on vacation once in a while but mostly I just read US Weekly.
My love affair with the written word began one day when I was suffering with anxiety that was completely out of control. My heart rate was fluctuating between 120bpm and 140bpm, not a great way to go through life. I began reading a little book called “Hope and Help for your Nerves” by Dr. Claire Weekes and my heart rate begin to slow down. This was a deep awakening for me; it was my first experience of the mind-body connection.
It had never crossed my mind (no pun intended) that my thoughts could impact my physical body. This was the first time I read a book cover to cover, every word, no skimming whatsoever. Since that day over two years ago, I have read more 40 books and have found a true passion for the written word.
I still have my challenges, who doesn’t?
Now I just have a great big tool bag filled with many tools to cope with anxiety and life in general. I call my books my best friends. Many times a book has brought me to a state of peace, of happiness, of wellbeing. I find even sitting in front of my bookshelf and just staring at my books brings me a sense of peace and joy. I know this may sound a bit off the wall to some of you…a couple years ago I too would have thought this is simply crazy. That is the transformational power of the written word. Words have changed my life, and I am so grateful for every word that has deeply impacted me.
I have read some books more than once. There have been times when the words are just words and the books have no impact on me. That is until I read them a second time, all of a sudden the words are no longer just words, I get it, I connect, I believe, I am ready for the meaning now. Timing is critical in everything we do in life including reading a book. If someone recommends a great book for you and it means nothing to you, don’t worry just set it aside. You never know, one day that very book may become your best friend.
I encourage anyone looking for comfort, for peace, for a best friend to take some time and read a good book. Enjoy your experience it is bound to transport you to new heights you never even dreamed possible. Don’t limit yourself, believe, love, enjoy every word.
10 Life-Changing Books You Must Read (aka “My Best Friends”)
1. A Return to Love by Marianne Williamson
2. Loving what is by Byron Katie
3. Lessons in Truth by Emilie Cady
4. A Thousand Names for Joy by Byron Katie
5. You can Heal your Life by Louise Hay
6. Feeling Good: The New Mood Therapy by Dr. David Burns
7. A New Earth by Eckhart Tolle
8. Conversations with God by Neale Donald Walsch
9. Quantum Healing by Deepak Chopra
10. The Monk Who Sold his Ferrari by Robin S. Sharma
4 Comments
Great list. I would also add The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz. A real game changer for life, great food for thought and packs a real punch.
Have not had the change to read the Four Agreements…it’s on my book order list.Thx.
Sandra, there are very few books that I class as a “must read.” That is one of them. It is so powerful.
Wow, I’ve recently started to get into books about happiness and self improvement, and these are definitely going to be on my list! The only one I’ve read is The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari. I’ve got some catching up to do! Thanks for this great list.