During last week’s Facebook Live session, I was asked to share some of the books I’ve read over the years that have supported my personal and professional development.

I promised to compile an updated list and send it out in this week’s newsletter. Books have been such an important part of my life for more than forty years and there are some I’ve read multiple times. Here are a few examples:

~*~ Two of the books that started my personal growth journey:

Living in the Light by Shakti Gawain

A Return to Love by Marianne Williamson

~*~ A deeply important book that introduced me to the power of thought, taught me about forgiveness, and helped me to think about handling problems in a new, more spiritual way:

Power Through Constructive Thought by Emmet Fox

~*~ A book that raised my level of consciousness just by reading the story:

Autobiography of a Yogi by Paramahansa Yogananda

~*~ One of my favorite books on the spiritual shift that can occur during menopause:

Red Moon Passage by Bonnie J. Horrigan

~*~ A beautifully written book that will comfort you during those times when you have no choice but to be patient:

When the Heart Waits by Sue Monk Kidd

~*~ An inspiring memoir about the power of grace to lead you to your highest and best life:

Balancing Heaven and Earth by Robert Johnson

~*~ An exciting, true story of courage about a young girl who sails around the world with her cat:

Maiden Voyage by Tania Aebi

~*~ A compelling story of a mainstream psychiatrist whose life was turned upside down by a patient who began sharing past lives:

Many Lives, Many Masters by Dr. Brian Weiss, M.D.

~*~ A book I reread every year because it’s such a great reminder of how to live a simple, more peaceful life:

Slowing Down to the Speed of Life by Richard Carlson and Joseph Bailey

~*~ And one that inspired my next book, Waking Up in Winter: In Search of What Really Matters at Midlife, a wonderful memoir in journal form about a writer who weaves her way through the world of publishing while living a creative and introspective life:

Journal of a Solitude by May Sarton

There you have it, a few of the friends from my library that have stretched my thinking, opened my mind, and influenced my writing and work.

I’d love to hear about the books that have changed, entertained or inspired you. Hit reply and share your favorites!

xo Cheryl

Video of the Week

I felt moved by this surprising five-minute video.  Be sure to watch to the end.  You’ll find it here.