For Better Not Worse

Dr. Cooper has a unique talent for using a combination of everyday living experience with spiritual guidance that gives the average person the necessary tools that they can use to release themselves from the bondage of the self-centered,selfish and self-rightous world that we have either created for ourselves or has been created for us by our heritage or environment. His open-minded approach to everyday problems are so profoundly evident in his writing as well as his sermons they have become lessons and principals for me to use daily. If you have the courage to face your defects of character, and the desire to transform yourself into a more caring, loving, decent and respected person, then this book offers the guidelines and methods to accomplish it. James C. Moore

When I first picked up a copy of Dr. David Cooper's book "For Better Not Worse", I thought why do we need another "self-help style" book on marriage. As I read his thesis on marriage as a covenant relationship instead of a contract, I began to change my mind. Dr. Cooper dispels seven common myths of marriage and presents the importance of unconditional love in a relationship. He encourages couples to remain faithful in spite of failures, hurts and disappointments knowing that love can build a bridge over all obstacles."For Better Not Worse" seems to have the perfect blend of the spiritual, the psychological and the practical. Dr. Cooper encourages couples to stop playing games and to learn how to effectively communicate with one another. He gives practical points for husbands and wives and throws in a section on how to handle conflict. One of the strengths of the book is Dr. Cooper's ability to deal with touchy subjects like sex and money in a straightforward way. He uses humor to help you get through some tough issues as you contemplate how you can put the book's principles into practice.Dr. Cooper saves the most important lesson for the end. In chapter eight, he stresses the importance of forgiveness. He acknowledges that everyone struggles with sin and we all make mistakes. Dr. Cooper encourages couples to forgive one another because it is only through forgiveness that relationships can be restored. Over all, I was quite impressed with "For Better Not Worse". It was an interesting read; challenging and yet lighthearted. It is the type of book that you will want to keep on your shelf and review from time to time. In it you will find practical help in navigating the maze of marriage.