Published in November of 2020, Forgiving What You Can’t Forget is a book about moving on from trauma.
I enjoyed this book and even referred someone in my church to it. It is so hard to let the Savior in and allow that change of heart to happen. (Particularly when there has been injury.)
It’s worth the read
First published in March of 1830, The Book of Mormon is the cornerstone book of scripture for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. It is meant to go hand in hand with the Bible to bring all people to Christ.
I like to put this in here every now and then when I finish the book. I read a little bit out of it every day so I finish it about once every 8 months or so. Love it or not, it has done me a world of good.
Read it! You won’t regret it.
Published in 2012, A Peculiar People is the narrative of the emergence of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and the state of the world at the time. J. Spencer Fluhman makes the arguement that “Mormonism” was so persecuted at least partly due to the social and economic issues in mid 17th century America.
The book tries to keep as neutral as possible. In fact, I’m still not sure if Fluhman is on one side or the other on the debate against my religion. However, it did bring up a number of fairly interesting points about the state of our nation at that time.
I’m on the fence with this one. It was good background knowledge but I didn’t enjoy it. I appreciate the author trying not to pick a side.
Published in September of 2016, The Book of Joy is a record of discussions had between Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu of South Africa.
This was a very interesting book given the context of different spiritual leaders from very different systems of beliefs. However, I felt they did a great job of keeping things positive and working to better humanity.
The book is an engaging read and was a great reminder of all the reasons to remain positive.
The Book of Mormon is a compilation of books from the ancient Americas. It is another testament of Jesus Christ and works hand in hand with the bible with the goal to teach the gospel.
I re-read the Book of Mormon every 10 months or so as I read around a chapter a day. When I was 17, I prayed if this book was true and received a witness that it was. Ever since then, I have done my best to be a disciple of Jesus Christ and do what I can to teach others about him. (Even if through my example.)
I hope everyone can read this book.
Published in 1986, “The Leadership Style of Jesus” is a non-fiction book written by historian and theologian Dr. Michael Youssef that explores the leadership principles demonstrated by Jesus Christ during his time on earth. The book draws on the teachings of the Bible and the example of Jesus to provide practical insights into effective leadership, emphasizing the importance of servant leadership, humility, and a deep commitment to the well-being of others. Through a combination of biblical analysis and real-world examples, the book offers valuable guidance for anyone seeking to become a more effective leader, whether in business, politics, or any other area of life.
Honestly, I didn’t like this book. The concepts are fine but I feel like the author goes well beyond the mark to make points. There were a few places where it was obvious he hadn’t done his research and was just speaking out of religious prejudice.
There were a few gems but I was disappointed in the read.
Published in April of 2020, How to Think Like a Roman Emperor is a study on the meditations of Marcus Aurelius and stoicism in general. The book guides you through the history of stoicism and through some of it’s main tenets.
I really enjoyed this book and it was a compelling read. I felt the author did a great job of going through the histories and linking them to the present day. I also enjoyed that the author had come to my University and one of my employees had filmed him talking about the book. So I got a little bonus.
Great read and worth the time
Published in October of 2020, “Better Decisions, Fewer Regrets” is a self-help book written by Andy Stanley, a renowned author and pastor. The book offers practical advice and guidance on decision-making, drawing on insights from psychology, neuroscience, and the author’s own experiences. Stanley argues that many people struggle with decision-making because they lack a clear framework for making choices and often base their decisions on emotion rather than reason. He offers a simple but powerful approach to decision-making that involves clarifying one’s core values, gathering relevant information, and considering the potential consequences of different options. The book also provides tips on overcoming common obstacles to good decision-making, such as indecision, fear, and a reluctance to admit mistakes.
I liked the style of writing as he was self deprecating and approachable. There was a lot of wisdom packed in there and a lot of experience as he works with people as a pastor. One of the things that stuck out to me was the advise on waiting a year before any kind of dating after a divorce. I wonder where I would be now if I had followed that advice…
Great book to help you evaluate where you are, where you want to be, and how to get there.
Published in September of 2020, You Are Never Alone: Trust in the Miracle of God’s Presence and Power was started before the COVID-19 lock down but was heavily influenced by it. The central message is that God specifically cares for you and your needs.
I really enjoyed this book as the author made specific mention that God is watching and cares for you where you are now. I have found this is the case in my life and it was comforting (confirmations bias) to hear it echoed through his words and through the scripture he quoted.
This is a good book if you are Christian and want a pick me up.
Released in 2017, Norse Mythology is a collection of exactly what you might think it would be. This is the mythology of Thor, Odin, Loki and all the others. Gaiman pens several of the legends and myths which have largely been forgotten in our day to day society.
I was pleasantly surprised at this book. I really enjoyed it largely because I hadn’t heard these stories before. I did a little bit of searching and found his book has been well received by the mythology community so I feel like it is fairly authentic.
My introduction to the topic was back in grade school where we heard where we found the names of the days of the week. I remember that lesson really grabbed my attention. (Thanks Mrs. Sanders!) Still, it took 36 years to actually hear a real myth… Sad really. Like many American’s, I am familiar with Marvel’s version of the Norse Gods but it turns out, they are a little different.
Thor is not the brightest and Loki seems to be in the center of everything. Loki’s children bring about Ragnarok. Loki is the reason Mjolnir was made and why the handle is so short. Loki seems to be the reason just about everything happened.
A great read! Everyone should read it.