Favorite Novenas and Prayers Book

Finally finished this book, becauseI wanted to read it slowly. So much to gain! As a bit of a perfectionist, I have often felt disappointed in myself. I have rarely let that disappointment ruin my hope or take me to despair, but this book helped me fight my perfectionism with all the right tools:

1. Not being surprised by my mistakes - the shock alone can lead to deeper feelings of disappointment and despair, but anticipating that everything will not go as planned helped me move through (not around) disappointment faster.

2. Not letting my faults upset me - it helps to have a spiritual director to see when I am being too harsh on myself while recognizing my failure with compassion at the same time. The less I am disturbed by my failures or faults, the faster and easier I could move past them.

3. Seeing my purpose as love and service helps me to persevere through the hard times. Knowing that God reaches down to me with mercy when I am too hard on myself gives me the love I want to spread more love. I remembered that life is an adventure, a journey, that is learned through experience, and that when I dedicate myself to love and service without reserve, I feel most alive. Other goals are good, but to the end that I am providing affection and help to my family, friends, co-workers, and patients, I am most happy.

I would recommend this book to anyone who has attempted to struggle with the spiritual path of humility, compassion, and truth. I would also recommend it to anyone who feels disheartened by their past.