Tag: Personal Growth

Four ways to give kids a strong start in life

Toddler holding camera. Photo: Pexels

Whether you are a parent, a teacher, or just someone else who cares about children in some way, you might well be keen to know exactly what it is that children need in order to have the best start possible in their lives. As it happens, there are a few things in particular that you might want to be aware of which can be particularly useful to children early on. In this post, we’ll look at four examples of things that kids generally need in order to have a strong start in life.

Encouragement
First of all, most people need plenty of encouragement, and especially when they are young. If you are able to provide this to your kids, then it’s going to make a world of difference to how much they feel they are capable of and what they are generally able to achieve, which in itself will affect their life considerably from here on out. So make sure that you are encouraging them in all they do, and especially where you notice any particular skills or interests that seem to be developing. That could make a world of difference to their lives.

Communication
Having the ability to communicate well is something that can set a person up very well in life, and it’s certainly the kind of thing you should be aiming to encourage in your kids as best as you can. There are many ways to do this. First, if there is anything specifically getting in their way of easy communication, then you might want to find them some help with that, perhaps through something like the Scottish Rite Foundation or similar. Then it’s about making sure that you are personally communicating well, so that they do the same in return. It’s amazing how much this can help.

Friendship
Nobody can do very well without people around them, and so this is something that you definitely need to make sure you are thinking about too. If you want your kids to be as happy as possible, it’s always going to be important for them that they have friends, but some kids find it naturally easier than others to make friends. If you happen to have children who are finding it somewhat difficult to do this, then you can help them along, and helping them is going to give them a much brighter start on the whole.

Education
Overall, a good, strong education is obviously one of the most important things of all. You can encourage and ensure this in a few ways, including finding them a good school, making sure that you give them the necessary motivation to actually learn well, and making sure that you help them with any areas of education that they tend to find difficult. If you can do those simple things, it’s going to mean that they have a much stronger, happier and well-rounded start in life, and the ongoing effects of this can be really quite profound.

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New book release: ‘Anger Management Tools For Parents’ by Stewart McClain

‘Anger Management Tools For Parents’ is the new parenting guide by Stewart McClain. Photo: Stewart McClain.

Parenting is not always easy and sometimes you need all the help you can get. There are many parenting books out there but today’s new book release focuses on anger management for parents. “Anger Management Tools For Parents: A Practical Guide to Becoming A Calmer, Nicer, Happier Parent” by Stewart McClain addresses the importance of keeping your anger in check when dealing with your children. Remember, at the end of the day, only you can make the difference. Purchase this book today and readjust your mindset forever. It is available on Barnes & Noble in hardcover and e-book format. Paperback signed copies are available on PayPal.

Born and raised in Saint Louis, MO, Stewart McClain holds a Doctorate in Religion and Education and a Bachelors in Leadership and Counseling. He is one of the most sought after speakers in his field. Stewart started his public speaking career when he was 18 years old and has been a serial entrepreneur for 17 years. He has traveled all around the United States giving messages of hope and empowerment. Despite having had multiple setbacks, he keeps moving forward with a drive and determination to achieve his goals. In his new book “Anger Management Tools For Parents: A Practical Guide to Becoming A Calmer, Nicer, Happier Parent,” parents will discover simple strategies that can help their child’s future and make everyone happier in the process. (Stewart McClain, 2023)

“Anger Management Tools For Parents: A Practical Guide to Becoming A Calmer, Nicer, Happier Parent” – the author has written this book for people just like you, those who are ready to make a Positive Change in their life. Do you look at your kids’ faces when you discipline them? Are you scared that your anger is getting the better of you a little too often? Getting frustrated is in many ways a natural part of this life, and a part of being human. However, there are ways to navigate through the chaos of raising a child without letting it get you all worked up inside. You just need to better understand your own emotions and your anger.

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Anger Management Tools for Parents by Stewart McClain #booktok #parentingbooks #parentingbooktok #booksforparents #angermanagement #angermanagementissues #angermanagementbook

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Book review: ‘Finding the Words’ by Colin Campbell

‘Finding the Words’ is the powerful account of one father’s journey through unimaginable grief.

Colin Campbell is a writer and director for theater and film. He and his wife wrote and directed the short film Seraglio, which won Deauville’s Grand Prix and was nominated for an Academy Award. His play Golden Prospects was nominated for five LA Weekly Theater Awards and was a Critics’ Pick in Time Out New York and The Los Angeles Times. Campbell teaches screenwriting at Chapman University and theater at California State Polytechnic University, Pomona. He has a BA from the University of Pennsylvania and an MFA from Columbia University. His book “Finding the Words: Working Through Profound Loss with Hope and Purpose” is a powerful account of one father’s journey through unimaginable grief and offers readers a new vision for how to more actively and fully mourn profound loss. (Amazon, 2023)

“Finding the Words: Working Through Profound Loss with Hope and Purpose” – When Colin Campbell’s two teenage children were killed by a drunk driver, Campbell was thrown headlong into a grief so deep he felt he might lose his mind. He found much of the common wisdom about coping with loss—including the ideas that grieving is a private and mysterious process and that the pain is so intense that “there are no words”—to be unhelpful. Drawing on what he learned from his own journey, Campbell offers an alternative path for processing pain that is active and vocal and truly honors loved ones lost. It is divided into ten chapters including Community and Meaning and Purpose and includes resource information, like Grief Resources that has a list of organizations that can help. He shares what worked for him and his wife and teaches readers how to actively reach out to their community, perform mourning rituals, and find ways to express their grief, so they can live more fully while also holding their loved ones close.

No one can deny that there are many levels of grief and that grief itself can be subjective. In the author’s experience, because his identity was so entangled with his children, he calls it ‘profound grief.’ He does not pretend to have all the answers: “this book will not take away your pain,” but his ultimate hope is that we can at least have open and honest conversations about the universal experience we call grief. His compassion and empathy are evident through the pages and his writing style is easy to follow and understand without coming off as preachy or condescending. In a perfect world, everyone would have the same resources to cope but knowing what works for others is an excellent start. At the very least readers can feel that they are not alone in their journey. This book is just as helpful for those grieving as well as for those who know someone who is grieving, so they can learn how to help instead of just saying “there are no words.” One of the highlights is the message of the power of community support; in his case, the overwhelming support of the Jewish community and the importance of mourning rituals. With practical advice on how to survive in the aftermath of loss, Campbell shines a light on a path forward through the darkness of grief. “Finding the Words” is a poignant and valuable guide for coping with grief and is recommended for readers who appreciate self help books on grief and loss.

“The act of verbalizing our grief, and having it be witnessed by our community, was key to us moving toward acceptance of reality.”

*The author received a copy of this book for an honest review. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

New book release: ‘From Heartbreak to Healing’ by Ann Zachariah, M.D.

‘From Heartbreak to Healing’ is the new self help book by Ann Zachariah, M.D. that addresses the topic of ghosting and how to recover, heal, and rebuild trust. Photo: Ann Zachariah, used with permission.

The dating term ‘ghosting’ is fairly new and refers to abruptly cutting off contact with someone without giving that person any warning or explanation for doing so. It is quickly becoming more common and can be emotionally confusing and hurtful to the person who has been ghosted. If you or someone you know has been the victim of ghosting and are looking for a self help book that addresses this issue, consider “From Heartbreak to Healing: OMG! I Just Got Ghosted: Navigating Emotional Storms and Reclaiming Self-Worth” by Dr. Ann Zachariah. It aims to help readers find closure and rebuild trust. Pick up your copy today at Amazon.

Welcome to the world of Dr. Ann Zachariah, a renowned psychiatrist, educator, clinician, and author based in Houston, Texas. Discover how her extensive knowledge and expertise can empower you to make transformative changes and unlock your true potential. (Dr. Ann Zachariah, 2023)

As a psychiatrist, Dr. Ann Zachariah understands the complexities of the human mind. Her compassionate approach and unwavering commitment to mental health have helped countless individuals overcome challenges and find inner peace. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, or any other mental health issue, Dr. Zachariah is here to guide you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery.

Beyond her clinical practice, Dr. Zachariah’s impact extends to education. She shares her wisdom and insights with aspiring mental health professionals, equipping them with the tools and knowledge to make a difference in the lives of others. Her passion for teaching and mentoring shapes the next generation of compassionate caregivers, ensuring a brighter future for mental health care.

Dr. Zachariah’s captivating books leave an indelible mark on the world. Each page encourages readers to embrace transformative changes and embark on a journey of self-improvement. Her words resonate deeply, inspiring individuals from all walks of life to break free from limitations, discover their true potential, and live a life filled with purpose and fulfillment.

Join the movement of personal transformation ignited by Dr. Ann Zachariah. Whether you seek guidance in your own life or aspire to make a positive impact on others, her expertise, compassion, and empowering words will guide you toward a brighter, more fulfilling future.

Do not wait any longer – start your transformative journey today with Dr. Ann Zachariah’s life-changing books and unlock the extraordinary potential within you. Experience the power of psychiatry, education, and authorship in transforming lives.

“From Heartbreak to Healing: OMG! I Just Got Ghosted: Navigating Emotional Storms and Reclaiming Self-Worth” – Did you just get ghosted? Are you finding closure and trying to rebuild trust? Then you are in the right book! Discover the transformative power of “OMG! I Just Got Ghosted.”

In this illuminating book, you will unravel the enigmatic behavior of ghosting and embark on a profound journey from heartbreak to healing. Packed with insights, strategies, and practical tools, this guide will equip you to navigate the emotional labyrinth of ghosting with resilience, confidence, courage, strength, and self-empowerment.

Key Highlights:

Psychological Insights: Gain a deep understanding of the psychology behind ghosting, allowing you to decode the motives and emotions that drive this perplexing behavior.
Healing Pathways: Navigate the emotional aftermath of ghosting with grace and strength. Discover how to embrace solitude as an opportunity for self-discovery and healing.
Empowerment through Boundaries: Learn to set healthy boundaries that shield your well-being and promote emotional recovery, ultimately restoring your sense of control and self-worth.
Trust Renewal: Rebuild trust, not only in others but also in yourself. Find out how to rekindle trust after heartbreak, cultivating more meaningful connections based on understanding and mutual respect.
Life-Changing Lessons: Extract essential life lessons from your ghosting experience. Elevate your self-esteem, develop personal growth, and harness newfound wisdom that enriches every aspect of your life.

Benefits You Will Gain after Finishing the Book:

Emotional Resilience: Equip yourself with tools to navigate emotional turmoil, empowering you to emerge stronger and more resilient after a painful experience.
Personal Growth: Transform heartbreak into an opportunity for growth. Discover your strengths, weaknesses, and untapped potential, leading to profound personal development.
Healthy Relationships: Develop a deeper understanding of healthy boundaries, open communication, and trust-building, which will positively influence all your relationships.
Inner Healing: Find solace and healing in solitude. Learn how to embrace your emotions, process grief, and embark on a journey of self-renewal.
Empowered Choices: Armed with insights, you’ll make informed choices about your future relationships, allowing you to create connections that align with your values and aspirations.

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Book review: ‘Existing While BLACK in Corporate America’ by Rudy Jones

‘Existing While BLACK in Corporate America’ is the new book by Rudy Jones. Photo: Rudy Jones, used with permission.

Books on business, leadership, career advice, and personal development and growth are usually targeted to all readers, but today’s new book release is an exception. “Existing While BLACK in Corporate America” by Rudy Jones speaks directly to black readers but some of the material, such as the future of the workforce with the rapidly evolving Artificial Intelligence component and the importance of being your own boss, is essential business advice that everyone can use. So, with that said, if you are looking for a business guide on navigating the corporate world, check out Rudy Jones’ new book, especially if you are black in corporate America. It is available on Amazon.

“Existing While BLACK in Corporate America” – After the Reconstruction era black people were stuck working for former slave owners on farms and plantations throughout the United States. Although they were technically no longer slaves, they endured harsh and unfair treatment. During the early 20th Century, they saw the fruits of their labor come to fruition when black businesses opened in parts of the country. Black people understood that because of their history and Jim Crow, they could not just work for anyone and expect a fair shake. They had to rely on their resiliency and fighting spirit to persevere. Some time after the civil rights movement they were able to access spaces once prohibited and they became content with working for anyone. This book examines their existence in corporate America. Some of the experiences will be discussed in this book and how they should maneuver going forward. (Rudy Jones, 2023)

In the Introduction, the author gives his background and the struggles he faced as a black man in corporate America for 20 years, which included roadblocks to career advancement. He shares his experiences and the lessons learned and hopes to help young professionals just entering the workforce while inspiring older professionals to think critically about the future of the job market and how it will affect black people. The book is divided into nine chapters, including How Will Artificial Intelligence Impact Black People and Black Women In Corporate America. Personally, he did everything right: got the job done, his job performance was above average, he had excellent evaluations, but still could not climb up the corporate ladder because he was not seen as ‘trustworthy’ and in the end, that is what matters the most. Highlights include Chapter 2 Why is it so Hard for Black People to Network? where he writes that black people have no access to those in senior leadership and when there are black people in these roles, it is hard to establish relationships with them but they should learn to work together because “Power is not in the individual but in the group;” and Chapter 7 How Will Artificial Intelligence Impact Black People where he questions whether AI will one day learn anti-black biases and racism. The chapters are short but the content is useful and eye-opening. With language that is easy to understand, the author does an excellent job of breaking down the difficulties that black people encounter in the business world and offers solutions to navigating an increasingly toxic office culture. Even though “Existing While BLACK in Corporate America” speaks directly to black workers and offers them exceptional life and business advice, everyone can benefit from it, especially the focus on being our own boss and which industries are considered AI proof. It is a must read and recommended for readers interested in business and workplace guidebooks who can also appreciate learning more about the black experience in corporate America.

“There is no difference between world politics and office politics because politics is war.”

*The author was contacted for an honest review of this book. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

New book release: ‘Are You A Light Or A Shadow?’ by Ayodele Abina

‘Are You A Light Or A Shadow?’ is Ayodele Abina’s debut book. Photo: Ayodele Abina, used with permission.

Today’s new book release is for those seeking inspiration, guidance, and a deeper connection with their faith. Ayodele Abina’s debut book “Are You A Light Or A Shadow?” is a must-read and will empower you to walk in the light. Unleash your inner light and burn with the power of the Holy Spirit with this insightful spiritual guidebook. Are you ready to begin becoming the light that God wants you to be? Then order your copy today!

Ayodele Abina is a writer and a beacon of faith and inspiration within his community. He grew up in Washington, DC after his family moved to America. As an investor, independent contractor, and successful businessman, his accomplishments stand as a testament to his unwavering dedication and entrepreneurial spirit but his most important roles are those of a devoted husband and proud father of two beautiful children.

“Are You A Light Or A Shadow?” – Are you a Christian who wants to strengthen your faith and walk closer to God? Are you searching for spiritual resources to rejuvenate a dry soul and inflame your passion for righteousness? Or do you want to scatter the many shadows that surround you? Then keep reading.

Beautifully written with a profound and soul-stirring collection of timeless spiritual reflections and practical guidance, “Are You A Light Or A Shadow?” is an eye-opening book that inspires Christians to deepen their faith and begin walking fearlessly in the light.

Featuring key life lessons that challenge you to cultivate inner virtue, author Ayodele Abina invites you to uncover the mysterious – and often surprising – revelations that God uses to communicate with us. Written with a warm and friendly tone, this book encourages readers to meditate on the fruits of the Holy Spirit, from love and peace to gentleness, meekness, and self-control, so that we can accept God’s life-giving graces and uplift the people around us.

Inside you will discover:

  • Exploring The fruits of The Holy Spirit (and How a Christian Can Acquire Them)
  • Why Love Is The First Characteristic of Light – and How Our Culture Gets It So Wrong
  • Practical Ways To Develop an Attitude of Peace, Gentleness, & Self-Control
  • Why You Should Strive To Develop a Spirit of Long-Suffering
  • One Powerful Antidote To Spiritual Depression That Will Uplift a Weary Soul
  • How To Follow God Amidst The Many Storms & Challenges of Life
  • And Much More…

As a must-read for any aspiring or committed Christian, as well as for those curious about cultivating virtue and leading a life of peace and joy, “Are You A Light Or A Shadow?” seeks to dispel our inner darkness and create a ripple effect that will rejuvenate our communities.

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New book release: ‘Mindful Communication’ by Asher Blythe

“Mindful Communication: Mastering Personal and Professional Interactions: A Guide to Promoting Openness and Understanding with Mindfulness Techniques” by Asher Blythe. Photo: Amazon

Today’s new book release is about communication. Mindfulness is a type of meditation in which you intensely focus on what you are sensing and feeling in the moment without interpretation or judgement. When applied to communication, it means talking less and listening more and focusing on connecting with others, among other skills. If you would like to learn more about this topic, consider “Mindful Communication: Mastering Personal and Professional Interactions: A Guide to Promoting Openness and Understanding with Mindfulness Techniques” by Asher Blythe.

Asher Blythe is a passionate writer dedicated to exploring meaningful themes in personal development, mindfulness, and work-life balance. His focus is on providing actionable insights and practical advice to empower readers to lead more fulfilling, balanced lives. He believes in combining research-driven information with accessible writing to ensure complex concepts are comprehensible to all. He is also a firm believer that books can act as catalysts for personal growth and transformation and he is committed to providing thoughtful, impactful content. When he is not writing, he enjoys reading, exploring nature, and pursuing continuous learning. Join him on this journey towards personal growth and transformation. His new book is “Mindful Communication: Mastering Personal and Professional Interactions: A Guide to Promoting Openness and Understanding with Mindfulness Techniques” focuses on applying mindfulness to communication. (Asher Blythe, 2023)

“Mindful Communication” – This guide explores mindful communication and provides practical applications for improved skills in personal and professional interactions. Topics include mindful listening, speech, non-verbal cues, overcoming barriers, and the long-term benefits of incorporating mindfulness.

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New book release: ‘How To Heal The Inner You: A Guide to Mental Freedom’ by Takeya S. Garner

‘How To Heal The Inner You’ by Takeya S. Garner. Photo: Takeya S. Garner, used with permission.

The topic of mental health is essential but unfortunately it is also taboo. It is rarely spoken about and those self imposed barriers need to be broken down sooner rather than later. Much of our present trauma and habitual self-sabotaging behavior stems from our unhealed inner child, an unhealed past that subconsciously extends into our present and future, but it does not have to be this way. (Takeya S. Garner, 2023)

Author and Health and Wellness consultant Takeya S. Garner offers her new book “How To Heal The Inner You: A Guide to Mental Freedom” by Takeya S. Garner. This compelling self-help book is meant to assist you through the important and life-changing healing process. In this guide to restorative health and well-being, you will be inspired throughout your entire journey to recovery, Garner offers 10 life altering phases readily available for you to initiate the process. She also shares some of her own past trials and struggles with mental health. She reveals how implementing these phases and sticking with them has helped her reach her impressive breakthrough. Takeya also offers support, advice and tips to help you remain consistent and eliminate any excuses. This book is therapy for those who struggle with their mental health. Why wait, when we can begin to work on ourselves today?! It is available on Amazon in Kindle and paperback formats. 

This is a small and easy to read reference guide. The format makes it easy to go back and re-read a particular section at your own convenience. Takeya S. Garner shares her personal experiences with anxiety so that readers can realize that they are not alone. While doing research to find out why she was undergoing so much anxiety and how to deal with it, she uncovered helpful information which she is now sharing with readers. She breaks it down into ten phases. These include Phase 2: Take Care of Yourself – focuses on practicing self care, which builds resilience and helps you “bounce back from setbacks,” and engaging in creative activities which help improve mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression; and Phase 6: Find Your Supportive Circle – reiterates the importance of having a supportive circle of either close friends or a therapist, counselor, or other mental health professional. Overall, “How To Heal The Inner You: A Guide to Mental Freedom” is an excellent source of information to not only help readers cope with anxiety, but also practice healthy and positive life habits.

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‘Meditation For People Who Can’t Meditate’ by Dr. Samuel Steinberg

‘Meditation For People Who Can’t Meditate’ is an informative guide on meditation by Dr. Samuel Steinberg. Photo: Amazon

Today’s topic is meditation. I have tried it before and I have to admit I have so much to learn. Are you new to meditation? Feeling overwhelmed by the chaotic world around you? Not sure how to focus? Then allow me to recommend “Meditation For People Who Can’t Meditate” by Dr. Samuel Steinberg. It is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Goodreads, Books-A-Million, and other booksellers. 

Dr. Samuel Steinberg is a highly accomplished professional with a diverse range of expertise. He holds a Doctorate in Metaphysics and one in Theology. He also graduated from the Plant Based Nutrition program at Cornell University. In addition, Dr. Steinberg is a qualified special education teacher, a Yoga Alliance certified 500 E-RYT yoga teacher and educator, and a highly regarded meditation consultant to mental health practitioners and pain support groups. He is the author of several notable works, including “Meditation For People Who Can’t Meditate,” “Free Bird,” and “Parents Guide to Helping a Child With Learning Disabilities.” He has also written extensively on topics such as veganism, vegetarianism, anxiety, depression, positive self-esteem in children, autism in the workplace, chakras, and weight loss and fitness. (Dr. Samuel Steinberg, 2023)

“Meditation For People Who Can’t Meditate”– In this beginner’s guide to meditation, Dr. Samuel Samtosha Steinberg presents meditation as an easy and effective approach to attaining peace, health, and a stress-free life. With basic techniques and a simple, uncomplicated approach, this book is perfect for those struggling to find the right time, place, position, group, or props to meditate.

Inside you will learn:

  • how to meditate correctly
  • the benefits of everyday practice
  • the diverse styles of meditation in a fun way.
  • And much, much more!

Get ready to overcome the challenges of meditation and find inner peace with this informative guidePrint length – 325 pages

Language – English
Publication date – November 23, 2022
Dimensions – 6 x 0.74 x 9 inches
ISBN-10 – 9692592014

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Book review: ‘Paris On My Mind’ by Eugene Crowley, Jr.

‘Paris On My Mind: Thoughts of Paris, James Baldwin, and Harlem’ by Eugene Crowley, Jr.

Eugene Crowley, Jr. was born in St. Joseph, Missouri, has a master’s degree in General Psychology, and spent 32 years teaching the wisdom from mythology to his high school students in Chicago. He has traveled throughout the United States, Europe, and South America. He wrote his book, “Upside Down World: The Loss of the Sacred Cosmos,” to give his readers the meaning of life in discovering their own sacred cosmos. He would like to see a “New Enlightenment” with the use of the wisdom from the past holistic cultures who began civilizations. He encourages our culture to return to its Eastern roots by having its spiritual awakening in opening the mind and heart. After participating in the conference “A Language To Dwell In: James Baldwin, Paris, and International Visions” at the American University in Paris in May 2016, he wrote “Paris On My Mind: Thoughts of Paris, James Baldwin, and Harlem.” It reveals Baldwin’s views on racism, his observations, solutions, and consequences. (Amazon, 2023)

“Paris On My Mind” gives the truths of the past for readers to become victors instead of victims over social conflicts. The author expresses his thoughts on James Baldwin, his life and writings, and explains that his wisdom echoes ancient philosophers and encourages his readers not to fall victim to America’s social problems. He believes that knowing the truth would set one free. Baldwin provided the truths of the past and gives his readers their purpose in life. He depended on religion and the wisdom of the past in confronting social ills. The book is divided into 12 chapters including The First Time I Saw Paris, Examining Our Civilizations, and James Baldwin in a Post-Racial America. The first two chapters give the author’s early connection with Paris since his hometown, St. Joseph, Missouri, had a French founder, Joseph Robidoux. He also explains why he became enamored with Paris, including that since the city was the innovator of urban streetlights, could this mean that it was, metaphorically, “responsible for giving light to the entire world?” The rest of the book explores the American way of thinking in terms of racial and societal issues, highlights of Harlem today and in the 1920s, then circles back to his thoughts on Paris on the last time he visited the city.

Racism on a global stage can be a touchy subject but now more than ever, it needs to be addressed. Aside from taking a closer look at James Baldwin’s life, how he defined racism and his coping strategies, Eugene Crowley, Jr. stresses the importance of awakening the spiritual, not religious, part of our lives, similar to how past civilizations placed greater importance to the soul, which is divine in nature. In doing so, everyone, including blacks, whites, young, and old can use this wisdom to conquer their adversaries because when we re-discover our spiritual identity, we can live “more genuine, authentic, and peaceful lives.” This insightful and eye opening book is full of history, soul searching, and useful advice, written using language that everyone can understand and put into use in their lives. Highlights include Chapter 3: The American Madness where the author writes that racial conflict is not the ‘Negro problem,’ but rather ‘The American Madness’ and Chapter 5: Dwelling in Languages where he writes that due to the harsh language that he used sometimes, James Baldwin had his critics, but mostly because people “find it difficult to hear of their irrational behaviors.” In other words, people, regardless of race, tend to lash out when confronted with their questionable behaviors. One final piece of practical advice he gives, about life in general, is “The best solution for boredom is to become active. Life was not meant to be lived in one space.” Overall, “Paris On My Mind” is a an excellent examination of the life and works of James Baldwin and a gentle reminder that to live a more peaceful life, we should strive for a more spiritual existence. It is recommended for fans of biographies, personal growth, and spirituality who appreciate practical life advice.

“When we remember our spiritual identity, we place racism and bigotry in their proper place as immature behaviors from people who have not awaken their spirit.”

*The author was contacted for an honest review of this book. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 4 out of 5.