books I've been enjoying lately

Out of the Canyon: A True Story of Loss and Love About the healing journey of a man who lost his wife and children when a huge boulder crushed their car as he drove through Glenwood Canyon, leaving him untouched. He found love again, with the blessing of his family from the other side. A lovely story. Have kleenex handy.

Outliers: The Story of Success Fascinating perspective on the root causes of success. Hint: it's not just hard work!

That Bird Has My Wings: The Autobiography of an Innocent Man on Death Row Very touching and sobering story of a guy who grew up to be a criminal. Made me seriously consider going back to school to become a social worker. I would very much like to make some kind of useful contribution to people in foster care and jails.

Energy Medicine for Women: Aligning Your Body's Energies to Boost Your Health and Vitality Just the right thing for me at just the right time, once again! Simple exercises to balance energy meridians. I can feel my nervous system settling down within seconds. Ahhhh.

Feeding Your Demons: Ancient Wisdom for Resolving Inner Conflict Loving this idea - instead of pushing away my demons, I can imagine turning my body into nectar and feeding them with it. Intrigues me on so many levels. Very satisfying to think of feeding my obsessions, my fears, my runaway mind, and even those who do not wish me well. It's the ultimate form of acceptance and nurturing, and feels so much better than closing myself off to them. The theory is that once they are fed, they become satiated and settle down. Makes sense, eh?

What Shamu Taught Me About Life, Love, and Marriage: Lessons for People from Animals and Their Trainers Good reminder that we teach people how to treat us, whether we realize we are doing it or not. And that we can make big changes in small steps, and that there are many creative ways to do things differently. I'm not a pure behaviorist, but I appreciated the empowerment in this book. There's a lot we can do to make it easier for people to treat us the way we want.

The Light Behind Consciousness Just starting this one. Non-duality stuff. I'm still standing on the edge of that cliff. Haven't taken the plunge yet. But I can definitely see the appeal of releasing my attachment to my identity and Self. Getting tired of being jerked around by my mind all the friggin' time.

The Fifth Agreement: A Practical Guide to Self-Mastery Thanks to my friend Jeff for sending this one my way. I really enjoyed Ruiz's other books, and did not know there was a new one out.

The Spark: The 28-Day Breakthrough Plan for Losing Weight, Getting Fit, and Transforming Your Life Hay House sent me this one to review. I get so excited when I see their return address on those padded envelopes! Although I have no interest whatsoever in weight loss menus and fitness charts, I did very much enjoy the story of the author's rise to success, as well as the 'before and after' pictures. I am endlessly fascinated by transformation stories!