Finding the Joy in Today: Practical Readings for Living With Chronic Illness

I purchased this book approximately 10 years ago and put it on the shelf. I did not have chronic illness at the time, but I thought that such a day might come. In January 2005 I began using this as part of my quiet reading each day (the book goes from January 1 to December 31). I quickly realized that this is not only for those with chronic illnesses; it is also for those who work with others who are afflicted with some ongoing condition, be it physical, mental, or spiritual. This includes family members and friends, clergy and social workers, nurses and doctors, teachers, and even those who work a cash register in a retail store. In short, this book is for anyone who wishes to discover a deeper level of life and learn not to be afraid of that which we cannot control or limit. The brief quotes alone are worth the price of this little book. These come from Greek philosophers and poets of old as well as from contemporary writers. Each day begins with a quote that underscores the topic for the day. Here are two: "Nothing has a stronger influence psychologically on their environment, and especially on their children, than the unlived lives of parents" (Carl Jung). "Just because everything is different, doesn't mean anything has changed" (Irene Peters). The author arrives at the heart of the matter in each day's reading. As an active older adult who happens to be in very good health, I am being challenged to maximize my daily living as I reflect on the thoughts in this book.

This book is a wonderfully, insightful volume that gives you just enough to ponder for each day. I find myself going back throughout the day to reread today's snippet. I have found many of these "daily reading books" to be repetitive and dull, but this one is great!