Amazon.com

A Severe Mercy, by Sheldon Vanauken, is a heart-rending lovestory described by its author as "the spiritual autobiography of a love rather than of the lovers." Vanauken chronicles the birth of a powerful pagan love borne out of the relationship he shares with his wife, Davy, and describes the growth of their relationship and the dreams that they share. As a symbol of their love, they name their dream schooner the Grey Goose, "for the grey goose, if its mate is killed flies on alone and never takes another."

While studying at Oxford, Sheldon and Davy develop a friendship with C.S. Lewis, under whose influence and with much intellectual scrutiny they accept the Christian doctrine. As their devotion to God intensifies, Sheldon realizes that he is no longer Davy's primary love--God is. Within this discovery begins a brewing jealousy.

Shortly after, Davy acquires a fatal illness. After her death Sheldon embarks on an intense experience of grief, "to find the meaning of it, taste the whole of it ... to learn from sorrow whatever it had to teach." Through painstaking reveries, he comes to discover the meaning of "a mercy as severe as death, a severity as merciful as love." He learns that her death "had these results: It brought me as nothing else could do to know and end my jealously of God. It saved her faith from assault. ...And it saved our love from perishing."

Replete with 18 letters from C.S. Lewis, A Severe Mercy addresses some of the universal questions that surround faith--the existence of God and the reasons behind tragedy. --Jacque Holthusen ... Read more

Reviews (47)

love is stronger than death...
After several readings of this book over the past few years, I can conclude without any hesitation that it is the most moving and unforgettable memoir I've ever read. It is relevant to note that all 29 of the other ... reviewers (at the time of my own writing) rate it a solid 5 stars... it really deserves a sixth. Not only for it's amazing true content, but for the beautiful way in which the author lays it all out. This book will literally captivate your imagination, sweep you away, and tug you towards a deeper understanding of the depths of "inloveness" (a Vanauken term) possible in God-ordained marriage.

Sheldon and Jean Vanauken were living the dream of togetherness that most people only.... well, DREAM about... until they came face to face with the fact that perhaps "perpetual springtime is not allowed." Those words were from their personal friend, the Oxford don C.S. Lewis and addressed to Sheldon as he tried to make sense of his overwhelming grief.

This is the story of a profound love between two people... a love that has its genesis, consummation, and terminus in heavenly places. If your eyes are dry all the way through this book... well, never mind... they won't be.

A masterful story of love, beauty and spiritual insight
A Severe Mercy is a masterfully crafted autobiography and the story of an intensely deep love relationship, a profound introspective on their path to finding God, and the utimate bereavement the author experiences as his thirty-something wife dies of a terminal illness.

Along the way, their paths cross with C.S. Lewis; personal correspondence with him peppers the book, as does a collection of superb poems written by Vanauken. It explores complex theological, philosophical and aesthetic issues with deep insight and profoundly sharp perspective. I can't recommend it highly enough, it's truly one if the best books I've ever read - a work of art which crosses many dimensions.

Practically speaking, A Severe Mercy explores a number of crucial life issues with breathtaking clarity. First, the second chapter, "The Shining Barrier" distills more insight into the true workings of a wonderful marriage relationship than a dozen garden-variety relationship books from the self-help section of a bookstore. Anyone who wants to understand why their romance has cooled off after five or ten or twenty years of marriage (including myself) could use this chapter alone as a manual for re-kindling the fire.

Secondly, it explores the nature of a difficult spiritual journey in a most articulate way - the emotional, philosophical, theological and personal implications of the claims of Jesus Christ. This book is not in any way a Bible-thumping promo for Christianity; rather it examines the claims of Christ and their implications from logical, historical, aesthetic and personal viewpoints -- in a way that no thinking person can easily dismiss.

I gave this book to friends of mine, a highly educated married professional couple, before they went on a camping trip. They were struggling mightily to reconcile Christianity with their modern worldview and the book was instrumental in helping them accomplish a breakthrough.

Third, it delves into the difficult interior world of a person who is bereft of the love of his life and who must feel the sorrow and loss and yet go on.

A Severe Mercy plumbs the depths of all of these issues via beautiful prose, expertly crafted perspective, and provocative poetry. Highly recommended.

all kinds of creepy
"A Severe Mercy" is a monotonous tale of a sick relationship which was, sadly, never fully healed even after the author's conversion and his wife's death.

The author is an overly self-conscious, controlling, self-absorbed snob (who can stomach Americans affecting British spelling?) whose characterization of his "beloved" remains disturbingly two-dimensional. If only she'd left her own story (well, one Van didn't burn), there might have been something interesting to it.

People who love this book, in my experience, tend to love it for all the wrong reasons. They are, for example, swept away by the ideal of pagan love and miss the explicit point (which even the author, in theory at least, gets) that such love must either convert and grow or fester. Others are emotionally immature, somewhat naive and inexperienced in love, and miss all the glaring problems in the author's relationship and attitudes toward it (both at its beginning and later, as he looks back). Many of my friends who liked this book as teenagers found it repulsive when they read it as adults. (And the theologically inclined found a few theological errors to boot.)

The book does have some redeeming features, like a handful of letters from C.S. Lewis to the author, but overall, it isn't worthwhile. There are too many good Christian books to be wasting time on this one.

Sentimental, yet Truthful
A story about love, the shining barrier, between a pre-WWII American couple that leads to a life of deep living and true struggle with what life and relationship bring to each other. CS Lewis, God, and intellectualism all mix in a very well thought out and true to life way that make this a most timely and peculiarly important book. Three big events: the love of a couple, their conversion to Christ, and death all mix with how God must be faced in our lives. Touching, sentimental, yet truthful to the greater truths of what it really means to be a follower of Christ.

spiritual exhibitionism
I wrote a review of this book a year ago, but it has been deleted. My opinion is unchanged. It is shallow, sentimental, and exhibitionist--a pathetic example of what passes for profundity in our time. It also attributes remarks to C S Lewis that no one who has read his books (or knew him)would regard as accurate. I earnestly hope it will soon go out of print and vanish into the obscurity it so richly deserves. ... Read more

Book Description

THE #1 NATIONAL BESTSELLER

What's love got to do with it in the meantime?

You know where you want to be, but you have no clue how to get there. You know exactly what you want in life, but what you want is nowhere in sight. Perhaps your vision is unclear, your purpose still undefined. On top of it all, your relationships, particularly your romantic relationships, are failing. If these scenarios feel familiar way down in the deepest part of your gut -- then you, my dear, are smack dab in the middle of the meantime.

Every living being wants to experience the light of love. The problem is that our windows are dirty! The windows of our hearts and minds are streaked with past pains and hurts, past memories and disappointments. In this book, Iyanla Vanzant teaches us how to do our mental housekeeping so that we can clean the windows, floors, walls, closets, and corners of our minds. If we do a good job, our spirits will shine bringing in the light of true love and happiness. ... Read more

Reviews (184)

Finally on the 3rd floor...
I actually SAW Iyanla while she was promoting this book. I cried through the entire lecture because I felt like she was talking to ME...that was 3 years ago. I am now DIVORCED and away from the relationships and ways that kept me in the "basement". I recently bought the audio CD for a friend and listened to it twice...only to realize that I went through every single phase of what she discusses in her book and I've seen the light. Loving yourself is the real message here. I'm so glad that I bought the CD that I'd like to give a copy to all my friends. If you are in need of a spiritual awakening, get this book. Better yet, buy the CD because it's as if she's talking directly to you - it only takes 2 hours of your time and it's well worth the time. I only wish I had the CD and book handy about a year ago while I was in the thick of my divorce. Trust in yourself. Trust in love. Trust in GOD. BUY THIS BOOK.

In the Meantime
This book started out good and really made sense and was positive but eventually, it got a little "out there". For instance, when she was giving an example of a couple who had a long-term relationship and one of them wasn't sure about how he felt and wanted to see other people, her advise was that the person who knew for sure about how he/she felt about the relationship should trust the other enough to let him/her do whatever they need to do to find out, as long as they stay together and supposedly, that's building love and trust. To me, it's saying, "I'm a doormat...walk on me." or can we say the word CODEPENDENT tendencies? BEEN THERE, DONE THAT!! And thank goodness, I'm far into my codependent recovery so as to recognize this; therefore, not buying into it. In the end, I just took what I could use from the book and left the rest but there was a lot left.

Looking Inside you.
Ms. Vanzant allows you to keep your mind open to new avenues on how to relief the emptiness we feel do to hurt and pain from a bad relationship. Each story and experience she gave was an insight as to how we experience a fall on our ego and self respect, and how to learn how to live for you and not everyone else in life. It is a great self healing book. Through her own personal experiences she gives reasons to look within your own life as to what we have lost within ourselves. She helps you view what is out there for us to move on and get to the top in being happy with ourselves and not living through having someone else be your happiness, but finding it within you.

Excellent
I have recently separated from my wife. I found this book to be very inspiring. I learned a great deal from this book and even more from "One Day my Soul Just Woke Up," by the same author. I recommend this book to anyone and everyone. Easy to understand an read.

In The Meantime: Finding Yourself And The Love You Want
Thank You A Harris 3@sc.rr.com for taking care of your book. It was is excellant condition. Sister girl seeks the truth. And doesn't talk around her self. She get's to the point. I'm enjoyin it. I would love to meet (Iyanla Vanzant) someday. Thank you, From Tulsa,Okla ... Read more

Book Description

Beloved friend,

When this little book was first published many years ago, it became a beacon of light for many people who found themselves time and time again in one valley or another. Valleys are nothing new for any of us. Some of you may be in a valley right now, or, since you never know what's around the corner, you may be on the brink of tottering into yet another valley. Or maybe you've just survived a valley that you swear you'll never revisit -- but guess what? That's precisely the valley you'll probably see again. And again.

Being in a valley can be a lonely and bewildering experience. This book was written to help you feel less lonely by reminding you that you really aren't ever alone since God is always by your side, but more important, you are always by your own side. No matter how dire the situation may seem, no matter how dark and bleak the valley may be, you have all you need within you to survive the valley -- any valley. Even though you may not know how you got into the valley in the first place, you do know, deep inside yourself, how to get through and out and free. You just need a little faith in yourself and a little guidance to find that faith within yourself.

When you are at your wit's end, take this little book and let it guide you toward the ever-present but often elusive light at the end of the tunnel. Faith in the Valley is designed to help you find the light when you need it most -- when you're in that damn tunnel. When you're most confused and in the dark and clueless as to how you got there (again!) and when you're trying to figure out not just how to get out, but stay out. For good.

Faith in the Valley has helped so many through so much that we felt it only fitting to issue this lovely gift edition to acknowledge the special place it holds in many hearts. Please share it with a friend who has served as your beacon in the past, or offer it to yourself as a reminder of the strength and wisdom you possess and can offer to others.

Iyanla ... Read more

Reviews (26)

Inspirational
Faith In The valley by Iyanla Vanzant is truly a book to help us on our journey toward peace. Ms. Vanzant imparts words of wisdom and encouragement. She is reminding us of some of the day to day things we take for granted. We sometimes forget to be thankful for what we have; good health, a job and a place to live. You will not regret reading this book. As Ms. vanzant writes, "What a blessing! I am so thankful" that I read this book. Go get yourself a copy of "Faith in The valley".

Excellent! A must read for women of all ethnicities.
This book is targeted towards African-American women, but I don't believe that African-American are the only women who experience "life in the valley." This book offers healing, inspiration and guidance to all who read it

GET THIS and GIVE THIS to your favorite women:)
This is my FAVORITE book by Iyanla Vanzant because of: It's size(small enough for your tiny purse), its lack of preach-i-ness and how the index is organized by subject. I feel its a synopsis of all the subjects covered in her other books. I also feel the book is applicable to women of ALL cultures. You can use it as a daily guide or you can use the index to find a subject for which you could use guidance.

A great book for daily reflection
I can not express how insightful and helpful this book is! It really makes you look deep into the reason(s) why you thought you needed a book of affirmations in the first place. This book is perfect for those "why me" and "I really can't take any more" moments when you feel like life, and everything in it, needs to give you a break. If you're a woman experiencing a lot of change in your life and it seems like you just can't handle another crisis (or is it a crisis afterall?), this is the book for you. I carry it in my purse!

Touches a Point
Each time my spirt is down, or I'm going through a situation, I turn to this book. I hold the book in my right hand by its spine, fan the pages with my left hand to stop at randum. The passages I've read, I have felt its deep spirtual feeling and I understand its meaning. Then I reflect on my situation and the passage fits. It helps me to understanding whats going on. It uplifts my spirit to deal with my situation. It give me insight to view my problem from a different angle. It also assures me that what I am currently going through will end. I will get through it. In my view, its a powerfull book. I have read several other books by Iyanla, even watched her talk show (sorry that went off the air), but like the bible, I keep Faith In The Valley near by. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Ordained minister and "spiritual life counselor" Iyanla Vanzant doesn't know the exact moment when her soul opened up "and the spirit of the divine entered [her] body." But she will always remember the key insight that opened the door to her soul and simultaneously locked the door to her insanity: "If you know who walks beside you, you can never be afraid." This is the premise from which Vanzant has launched her enormously successful 40-day, spiritual self-help program. One Day My Soul Just Opened Up is designed as day-by-day journal/workbook to help readers believe in a divine presence while pondering daily spiritual lessons such as simplicity, peace, compassion, and nonjudgement.

The charismatic Vanzant (whom Oprah Winfrey considers to be one of the world's most admirable spiritual leaders) has a gift for humble, tell-it-like-it-is talk. She is also a wise and warm soul, eager to help others trust in love and find a relationship with God in order to get on with their lives. Readers especially like her daily list of inspirations titled "Let Me Remember." For example, under day 23, "When You Feel Angry," she uses the list to remind readers: "All things work to bring me healing"; "Forgiveness will provide relief and release"; and "Love will heal anything that is not an expression of love." --Gail Hudson ... Read more

Reviews (106)

Excellent
This book has been very powerful for me, and is effortless to incorporate into even a busy life. There are so many good books on spirituality, but this one is unique because it breaks down many universal spiritual principles into concise daily readings, with sections on "Honoring Yourself," "Honoring Others," "Honoring the Process," "Honoring Your Feelings," and more. Within each section, each day has one spiritual principle you read about, and has a short space for you to write your own take about what you've read. It also has a space to reflect at the end of the day any experiences you've had relating to that principle (don't worry, it's not a huge journal-type project - all the writing takes me less than 5 minutes a day, and adds immensely to the power of the program). Because my time is so tight in the morning, I do the reading the night before. (The readings are short - most only 3 pages.) I'm about halfway through the 40 days, and my soul is opening up, and I find myself looking forward to my nightly reading, as an inspiring and relaxing ritual. I'm sure you'll also find many of the readings to speak directly to issues you're having now, and others will validate things you've already become aware of, and yet others will be on tap when you are struggling with different things. It is a brilliantly concise book, and one with all its tools clearly laid out so it can be referred to again and again long after the 40 days are past. (I really encourage you to go through it one chapter at a time as she mentions, because each principle will sink in much more than if you attempt to read it as a chapter book.)

very spritiual, uplifting, deep soul searching ,real honest
This book lays it on the line when it comes to digging way deep down in your soul for the truth. Only those of you who what to be true in spirit, mind, body, and soul in your beliefs with the divine, can comprehend, and see the real essence that Iyanla is trying to relate to you. THIS BOOK IS NO JOKE. I loan the book to my pastor's wife during our wednesday night praise service and she hasn't returned it yet. There was no way that I could read the book without feeling a gusty deep spiritual uplifting within. I followed all instructions in the book and read it before I would get out of the bed in the morning and then again before retiring at nite. I would sometimes read a chapter in the book and then find some type of bible verses that related to what I had just read. If, before you read this book you didn't have faith in the divine, or even knew how powerful you are with the blessings of God spiritually, then I'm sure after you read this book, your spirits and your faith in the divine will be greater than ever before. I truly would recommend this book for all readers. I intend to pass this book on as gifts, to those that I know who would love to be up lifted spiritually, in any shape form or fashion.

Beware!
All I can say is "avoid this mess alone." That's all this author's publications are -- spiritual mess. A bit of new age here, occult there, and a healthy dose of self-centeredness and walla! Vanzant created her own patchwork quilt of a religion!

Someone recommended this book, like it was a great masterpiece. I could not get through the first few pages. Vanzant's writing style is superficial and amatuerish. Worse, is that she flies in the face of those who profess Christianity. I got this book out of my face and house in the same manner as a voodoo doll.

Despite the user-friendly marketing approach of Ms. Vanzant, this book can easily be seen as not very deep, even by lukewarm religious people. God warns us in the OT and NT of the Bible of the days when women try to create religion and usurp authority (in this case, profit$$) from men. This book is written in the spirit of Jezebel. Repent, Ms. Vanzant, repent!!!!!!!!

Reality check please. . .
"I'm good enough, I'm smart enough, and dog-gone-it, people like me." That seems to encapsulate Ms. Vanzant's approach to spirituality.

I don't know about anybody else, but when I look inside myself, I see that despite my best intentions and genuine desire to be "good," I often act in ways that trouble my own conscience. Ms. Vanzant's assertion that this stems from the fact that I have not yet really embraced my God-ness leaves me troubled, empty, and confused.

At least she's honest. Deep into the book she takes her "your truth is your truth" philosophy (complete moral relativism) to its frightening but logical conclusion when she (essentially) defends Adolph Hitler. She never says what he did was RIGHT, but that judging him as wrong is not a productive use of our energy. I happen to believe that one of the most productive things we can ever do with our energy is to condemn genocidal maniacs. If we can't stand up and call that wrong, then what on earth IS wrong?

According to Ms. Vanzant, that simply depends on what you decide. I don't want to live in a world like that, and am convinced such a world would be far from Ms. Vanzant's utopian dreams. The very possibility that Hitler did what was right for him is exactly why that concerns me. Hitler has been almost univerally condemned and this is because there is something in most people that recognizes evil at this level and calls it what it is. Ms. Vanzant would have us believe our world would be a better place if we discarded even this basic recognition of moral bankruptcy.

There has to be another answer, for this book's answer contradicts itself at every turn. I already have the things I pray for? Then why do I bother to pray for them at all? I act badly sometimes but am really divine? Then the meaning of divinity has been perverted beyond recognition. Who cares if we're all divine if we act in such ways?

What would the world look like if everyone in the world bought this book and lived their lives in accordance with it? It would be a world where most people hold hands around the fire and sing Kum-Ba-Ya, while the Hitlers and good old everyday wrong-doers of our world run around doing what THEY think is right, since the book gives complete license for "whatever you feel is right" behaviors. It disregards the likelihood that often our thoughts and feelings are a terrible gauge of what kinds of behaviors are and are not beneficial to us and others. Ms. Vanzant's solution to evil in the world seems to be to overlook it, convincing us it's not productive to call it what it is.

The fact is that it doesn't really matter if one's soul "opens up." The question is what is one's soul opened up to? If you are looking for a book that will tell you what you want to hear about spirituality (that you are a god, that there's nothing essentially wrong with humanity, that evil comes only from lack of enlightenment, that everything that you need to be fulfilled is already inside of you, etc.), then this is the book for you. But if you're looking for a book that deals realistically with the problem of evil, with human nature, and with what it means to grapple with both a human and a spiritual nature, then don't give this book a second look.

I believe Ms. Vanzant's book is an insult to the reality, the severity, and the complexity of the human condition.

One Day My Soul Just Opened Up
This book will give you 40 days of soul searching and working through grief and anger. A lovely gift for any reader!(...) ... Read more

Book Description

"[James Van Praagh] has changed people's lives, banished the fear of death, and brought grieving parents the solace of their dead children's presence...IT IS IMPOSSIBLE NOT TO BE MOVED." (Newsweek)

This is the groundbreaking book which introduced renowned medium James Van Praagh to the world. This is the book that changed people's lives, that gave them hope, that answered their most profound questions about life after death. This is the phenomenon that continues to grow...

"A wonderful and uplifting book...I highly recommend it. If you have ever feared death or grieved the loss of a loved one, James Van Praagh's spiritual stories and lessons will heal your heart. He is without a doubt one of the most gifted mediums on the planet at this time." (Brian L. Weiss, M.D., author Many Lives, Many Masters) ... Read more

Reviews (183)

Truth Directly From HEAVEN!!!!
I know that James Van Praagh's book is truth..Two of our three children have crossed over the veil to the other side, and my mother also. I have had many spiritual experiences before, during and after their passings, and so much of what he has written mirrors my own experiences that I know what he writes to be absolutely true! He brings such comfort, peace and truth to the hearts of those who are in need. I know from my own experience there is no death- that those who have passed on are very much alive in the spirit world...our loved ones on the other side are never very far from us, in fact will always be with us! James knows this to be true, and shares this in his book! What comfort it gives to have this knowledge! Everyone who has had a loved one pass on to the other side, needs to read this book....it will bring them comfort and knowledge and TRUTH! I would love to meet him and talk to him in person, I know he has blessed my life, and many others also.....I look forward to some day meeting and talking with him and to his next book!

A good read but in the end left me confused
I eagerly read both of Van Praagh's books when my brother died this past January, and at first I believed everything he wrote. After all, I wished with all my heart that my brother was indeed still alive but just happened to be somewhere else, not unlike living in another country. Van Praagh basically makes you believe that this is exactly where your loved one is (except that country is called heaven), only you can't talk to him anymore, much less see him. After a few months I realized that I could not properly grieve for my brother because the book basically tells you that it is unnecessary to grieve because the loved one is really still "alive." Grieving is a natural process that one must go through here on earth and one should not be denied this. Also, Van Praagh says that we all have prechosen a time to die and how it will happen. He briefly talks about medical cures and how this can change how one will die, but other than that, you're left with the feeling that being murdered or dying in agony of AIDs was meant to happen all along, so how is this supposed to make us, the grieving ones, feel better about a death? It doesn't. And it doesn't make sense. And it doesn't allow a person to grieve and/or get through the stages of grief. Van Praagh wants you to be happy as a dimwitted clam knowing that your loved one died by choice and he's still alive somewhere, baking apple pies. Whether my brother is alive in heaven or dead as a door nail is a moot point; he isn't here anymore and I've come to realize that I cannot be denied the way I feel about it anymore.

An interesting and uplifting read...
I purchased this book while I was grieving for the loss of a loved one. Of all the books I have read during this period, this was one of the best and most interesting. The author has many good stories about his contacts with people who have crossed over. If you are intersted in this subject matter or are grieving the loss of someone special, reading this book will give your spirit a lift. Highly recommended!

"Life after death"
For years I have dabbled back and forth as to whether thier is "Life after death" or if we die and are held "sleeping" till the day comes for us all to wake as it states in the bible.
Then my daughter passed away unexpectedly and I searched for answers to this mystery in my mind. I wanted so badly for her to be out there...for me to talk to,to know she was alright and unafraid. TALKING TO HEAVEN has helped me to heal a little of the questions as well as make me feel more comfortable about my daughters demise. I doubt I will ever stop missing this precious child of mine,a woman...but at least I feel that when i softly speak to her, she listens.
This book will help anyone with questions,grief or turmoil they are unsure about in thier lives.
Katlyn Stewart
Author of Nightmares Echo

One ear to heaven, one to earth
I just bought Talking to Heaven and a book by a healer/psychic I hadn't heard of until I got her new book, Psychic Gifts, and after reading both, I loved Psychic Gifts and thought Talking to Heaven was just okay. I am giving James 5 stars cause he's a great medium but if you want to read a book you cannot put down, get Psychic Gifts by Tiffany Snow, which truly has one ear to (listening to)heaven and one ear to earth. ... Read more

Book Description

If there are situations, circumstances, or perhaps relationships in your life that you have been struggling to overcome, trying to work through, or doing your best to work around, throw your head back and declare to the universe, "Until Today!"

Whatever has been going on in your mind, your life, or your heart can stop -- right now, if that is truly what you desire. However, you must be willing to "do a new thing." You must spend a little time, each day, in devotion to the truth about yourself and your life. You must make a conscious approach to what you think, what you feel, and what you do. Devotion will clear up misconceptions that may have obscured your vision until today!

Bestselling author Iyanla Vanzant presents a new book of devotions for anyone on the path to spiritual empowerment. These daily devotions will create powerful changes in the circumstances of your life that have held you back and will place you on the road to personal strength and peace of mind. ... Read more

Reviews (18)

Speaks Directly To You
Vanzant's latest book is in a day-to-day devotional format. Having devoured everything else she has written, I didn't hesitate to pick this up. Well, get ready to be smacked hard upside your head every single day.

The author seems to have the view of a seer, and every single piece is directly related to what's happening in life at exactly that moment. Each devotion ends with the phrase, "Until today..." and a statement like "you may have been feeling as if you were about to break down. Just for today, call forth the strength, courage, wisdom, insight, power and love of the spirit of life. Ask that you be guided through the next minute, hour or day to a place of peace." (January 31)

Each month has a focus - life, love, awareness, acknowledgment, acceptance forgiveness, etc. Each day's reading focuses on internal personal and spiritual growth, self-acceptance, change and producing peace in your life.

It is an excellent book for those who have thrown out all the other daily devotional books including those for "Women Who Do Too Much." I expect to wear the pages of this book out over the next years.

Spiritual Growth
I am writing this review, in the hopes that Iyanla herself may read this. Last year, my daughter started a book club, and chose this book. We began with eleven, and at the end it was only four faithful members, which was alright. When Iyanla came to the Convention Center, in Philadelphia we well fortunate to hear her speak,we enjoyed her emensely. Anyway, the first couple of month, we struggled with the consistency, understanding, and the meaning. Suddenly the light bulb came on,we became persistent, steadfast in our reading,meditation,and self evaluation. We were awakening to the changes God was making in our lives, inwardly, outwardly, and between eachother. The following months proved to be more spiritual, and we experienced God power in our lives. December was the most powerful of them all. At the last meeting, we all cried, cried, cried tears of joy and thanks for bringing us this far. And a thankful heart to Iyanla, for providing the tool we needed, to help get us through this past year, her book Until Today. We didn't realize it until today, that the person, who brought us together for the book club, was the person whom needed to bring closure to things in her life, which she was able to do. We all have deceided to start a journal for this year. Some of us are going to continue to read the daily devotions again. It certainly was a very spiritually growing process for all of us, we will be forever changed from this experience with eachother, we are closer now,we respect, admire, appreciate one another for the beautiful person that God made. Sincerely,
Renee Scott

Inspirational, validating, & affirming!
This gem of a book is one of Vanzant's best works yet!

The book is broken down into twelve sections that each deal with a spiritual principal. (Example: January deals with Life, July deals with Understanding, September with Trust, etc.) The readings for each day are truly inspirational, validating, and affirming for all of God's children! At the end of the reading is an affirmation or thought/Meditation that you can focus on throughout the day!! (I usually write about it in my own personal spiritual journal, once in the morning and once at night....to see how I fared!)

If you are interested in growing as a person and a spiritual being, then this is the book for you! An excellent read that I have and will continue to recommend.

Everyday Meditation
I really enjoyed "Until Today." My first exposure to it was in a yoga class where the instructor would read it to us during final relaxation. Some of the daily meditations are a bit long and have LOTS of references to God which I personally don't have any problem with. Overall, a great gift along with some "plinky" music.

As always, Iyanla "Does the Damn Thing!"
The only words that can describe this sistah, is "Heaven Sent!"
From the moment I picked this book up, there was such a calm that enveloped my soul that mere words could not explain it. If one is truly looking to become more Peaceful, more Centered, more Focused, more Honest and more Spiritual, the daily meditations in this one will do that and more. Iyanla, May whatever you choose to worship continue to BLESS YOU because of your trials, tribulations and the courage to share you with the rest of the world, you are HEALING so many wounded SOULS, mine included. Excellent Job! Excellent Book! I think everyone should have one. Man, Woman, Black, White, Blue or Purple! Be Blessed My Sistah! ... Read more

Book Description

Acts of Faith is a thoughtful and inspirational book that explores the unique pressures on people of color today with great insight and sensitivity. This book is the minimum daily requirement for people of color in search of inspiration and support. ... Read more

Reviews (28)

Acts of Faith will created a new way to look at life!!!!!!
This book is a must have ! This wonderful book discusses a wide variety of struggles and everyday problems that we face as people of color. It gives you a positive way to look at problems, when you may think there's no way out, This book gives the solution !I have bought this book three times, gave away 2 to my friends and kept one for myself of course, it makes an excellent gift, that will last a lifetime.Each page is so well thought out and easy to comprehend.So I pass this book to you with hopes that you will read it and pass it on to all friends Thanks your reading my opinion, Shawn

Thank you Iyanla for Acts of Faith
During the beginning of 1999 I was having one bad day after another. One day I decided to take an extra long lunch bought the book, and read up to that present date. It help me to put my troubles in perspective. I now share the passages with with my spouse, my children, friends and I am kept sane and whole by it. I truly believe that it is a tool of God to reach us and to bring us peace for our souls. I had a troubling time with my sister in March of this year and each passage during those days were like having my parents (both of whom a deceased) arms wrapped around me. It kept me from really hurting her feelings and kept my end of the relationship repaired. Thank you Iyanla your gift of this book will resound though the centuries. Love Barbara

Inspirational
This book has inspired me. I have found several meditations that apply whole heartedly to my life. I have retyped and copied several of the quotes and taped them to my refrigerator or put them on my bulletin board at work. This is a book I needed years ago.

This book has given me insight and inspiration on several different topics. Since I bought it a few years ago, I have yet to put it down. I'm always reading this. I have become more pleasant in certain circumstance because of something I've read here.

For anybody facing lifes highs and lows or debating whether or not to start meditating this book is one you should have. It's so nice to have a book that focuses on the daily ins and outs of being a person of color.

Magical
This book has such power. I believe it is filled with just the greatest words for any situations. This is a must have for anyone who needs a little motivation once in awhile. And i think thats everyone. There are two recommended methods for using this book. One is to follow along according to the date. The other is to just open it up and see what happens. I do this alot and every page i have read spoke to my heart and to whatever is going on in my life. GO GET THIS BOOK AND GIVE A COPY TO ALL OF YOUR FRIENDS and to your enemies to they can get their life together.

An inspiration for all
This book gets me through bad days and good days. What I mean by that is with every page and every insightful message you learn more about yourself and the people in your life. I recommend this book to any and everyone that wants to get in touch with their inner and outer self. ... Read more

Amazon.com

The "meantime," according to best-selling author and inspirationalspeaker Iyanla Vanzant, is that in-between stage of life when you're gatheringup strength, evaluating past mishaps, and preparing for the next chapter. Usingthe metaphor of psyche as house, Vanzant believes that the meantime offers aperfect opportunity for tackling a rigorous cleaning. "We are going to gothrough every inch of your emotional and spiritual house and clean up the mess,clear out the debris, fix the leaks, stop the squeaks, and reveal and repair anydamage we can find," she promises in this workbook. Readers who felt soothed andinspired by Vanzant's In theMeantime will probably appreciate this floor-by-floor companionworkbook. Every chapter of Living Through the Meantime contains anassortment of "Caring Exercises," ranging from affirmations, such as "I nowplace my faith in the power and presence of God's love" to quasi-therapeuticfill-in-the-blanks statements. (For example, "My earliest experience of feelingbetrayed was ___.") Vanzant is not the most eloquent or sophisticated ofwriters, but she does seem to touch people's hearts and crack them open. Hermain agendas are self-reflection and trust in God. Fans who are ready to tacklea hefty self-improvement project will not be disappointed with this workbook. Newcomers should check out her earlier book before committing to this one. -- Gail Hudson ... Read more

Book Description

You are special.
You are precious.
You are It!

Today, Iyanla Vanzant is a bestselling author with her own business and a loving family. But it wasn't so long ago that she was a teenager -- a sixteen-year-old mother and high school dropout on welfare. Iyanla knows that a young woman's journey can be lonely and hard. She remembers how difficult it is to put into words the way you feel, how it feels to want to be loved.

In Don't Give It Away!, Iyanla presents a workbook in which you can write your feelings and express your thoughts about the things that matter to you -- your family, your friends, your body, and your love life. Problems at home and at school are a natural part of every young woman's life, but understanding what to do with how you feel about your problems is the key to growing up. Iyanla Vanzant shows you that the love you seek is the love that you are. ... Read more

Reviews (23)

A must buy!
*****I can think of no better word to describe this book than "neat." I picked up "Don't Give It Away" at the airport because the cover caught my eye. Don't be fooled! Though it looks as though it is a book for teens, at age 31, I couldn't put it down. Since then, I've bought four additional copies to give to all the teen girls I know and love. This book is an incredible tool for all women, regardless of age. However, if you are not interested in getting to know yourself don't buy the book.

THIS BOOK IS A EYE CATCHER
I THINK I.V. IS AN EXCELLENT WRITER! ONE DAY JUST LOOKING THROGH THE BOOK LIST OF TEENAGE BOOKS I STUMBLED UPON A BOOK THAT CAUGHT MY EYE WHEN I TOLD MY MOM THE TITLE DON'T GIVE IT AWAY. THAT NIGHT WE WENT TO THE BOOK STORE AND PURCHASED THE BOOK. AS I STARTED TO READ,IT MADE ME FEEL LIKE A STRONG BLACK 12 YEAR OLD GIRL IT ALSO GAVE ME MORE SELF-CONFIDENCE. I THINK THAT MS.VANZANT IS AN SUPER,SUPER WRITER NOT ONLY FOR TEENS BUT ALSO FOR ADULTS. WHEN I GOT TO THE PART ABOUT THE DIFFERENT TECHNIQUES TO EXPRESS YOUR CERTAIN FEELINGS IT GOT MORE AND MORE INTERESTING. I THINK GUYS SHOULD ALSO READ THIS BOOK FOR TWO REASONS, IT IS INSPIRATIONAL ANDIT CAN TURN YOUR LIFE AROUND. HOPE TO SEE ANOTHER BOOK FOR US TEENS IN YEAR 2000.

Inspirational
Iyanla is a very influential and inspirational author. She would be a top five person to talk to in my lifetime. I reccommend everything she has to write or say.

WOW
This book changed the way I viewed myself in this world. It really helped me change from a depressed teen to someone who sees themself as a smart, beautiful and loving person. I did a presentation of this book and the presentation actually changed lives. A must for teen girls!!!

Very enlightening
I found this book to be very helpful to me as to how to better understand myself as well as my teenage daughter. This is a great reccomendation for all teenage girls who are becoming women. ... Read more

Book Description

James Van Praagh, renowned medium and bestselling author, reveals how the devastating sorrow of a loss can lead to incredible opportunities for spiritual growth and bring a sense of renewal and focus to our lives. This deeply felt, wise, and compassionate book offers hope for a true healing of the mind and spirit, as we move beyond grief and loss-to a life of freedom, joy, and purpose. ... Read more

Reviews (26)

An important book by a great author!
Reading a book by James Van Praagh is like sitting down with your best friend for coffee. He is down to earth yet knowledgeable in addition to being kind and sympathetic. "Healing Grief" is an important book not only for those suffering a recent loss but also for those of us who have not properly grieved a loss from the past. As I read the book, I was immediately taken back to my grief over the loss of a very important relationship in my life. I still grieve this loss after five years because I have not properly dealt with the attending emotions. Going through James' checklists and steps for dealing with grief helped a great deal. I'm better prepared now to deal with loss in the future. I will read this book over and over again and purchase more copies for friends and loved ones when they experience a loss.

Embracing Death Means Enjoying Life
The skeptics and fundamentalists can say whatever they want. There is no doubt in my mind that James Van Praagh is a talented medium as well as a sincere, compassionate person. I've read all three of his books and give them all five stars. I don't see any point in doing a review unless I can give it five stars. This books combines very good advice on dealing with grief -- from death, divorce, and other stressful events during our lifetime, but what really made the book for me were the very interesting, intriguing, and inspirational stories he mixed in about grieving people who have had sittings with him. Loved ones on the other side would come through and provide clear-cut, evidential information that helped the grieving ones overcome their grief. Some of them are real tearjerkers. Once a person can overcome his or her fear of death, once that person can embrace death, life becomes more meaningful, less stressful, and much more enjoyable. Thank God for James Van Praagh.

What a gift!
James Van Praagh is able to cover all aspects of loss in life, from death of a loved one to loosing a job. I found it extemely helpful for many expierences in my life and also for those I may face in the future. I recommend this book to anyone, whether you believe in life after death or not, his knowledge and compassion is uplifting and reasuring.

disappointing
There are some excellent books to read if you are suffering from grief, but this isn't one of them. It is missing the ring of truth, but even if you do believe Van Praagh (a big hurdle for me), it's very awkwardly written in that it tries to cast him as some sort of bereavement counselor, which doesn't work, at least not for me. Instead read Closer to the Light by Melvin Morse, M.D. (which gives examples of near death experiences of children) and Hello From Heaven by Bill and Judy Guggenheim (which simply offers hundreds of after death communications people have submitted to them). These books are very convincing, even to the skeptic, and very comforting. Another book, The Afterlife Experiments by researcher Gary Schwartz, Ph.D. is an excellent introduction to several good psychics who have done well in various test situations, often delivering stunning hits.

A Must Book for Dealing with Grief
James Van Praagh is a human being filled with compassion, empathy and understanding. His aim as a psychic is to assure those experiencing any form of grief that there are ways to deal with it, and he records these ways in this well-written and easy to understand book. We are assured that grieving is a natural process, and that ultimately, for those whom we've lost in death, we most assuredly will meet again. A book for helping everyone cope with the fact of loss in our lives. A sourcebook for all... ... Read more

Book Description

The National Bestseller

What is the lesson in abuse, neglect, abandonment, rejection? What is the lesson when you lose someone you really love? Just what are the lessons of life's hard times?

Bestselling author Iyanla Vanzant has had an amazing and difficult life -- one of great challenges that unmasked her wonderful gifts and led to wisdom gained. In this simple book, she uses her own personal experiences to show how life's hardships can be re-languaged and revisioned to become lessons that teach us as we grow, heal, and learn to love. The pain of the past does not have to be today's reality. Iyanla Vanzant is an example of how yesterday's tears become the seeds of today's hope, renewal, and strength. ... Read more

Reviews (100)

WORTHY OF A MILLION STARS...AND MORE!
After reading this book, the reader will come away with a truer understanding of who they are, and a clearer realization that in order to find a happier, more peaceful, fulfilling life one needs to let go of the trials and tribulations of the past. This book will be particularly memorable and helpful to those who are victims of past abuse. Forgiveness does not come easy, but it is only in forgiving that we find the strength and courage to heal. In finding the strength and courage to heal, we discover the opportunity to find true and lasting happiness in the future. Revenge, dispair, anger and other negative emotions rob us of our future and deprive us of the opportunity to reach our full potential and discover who we really are.

Iyanla is a pillar of strength and an extraordinary woman who has learned first-hand how to survive in a world that is not always kind of just. Readers will marvel at her wisdom and inspiration, at her ability to grow and heal, and her incredible desire to help others through the pages of this book. "Yesterday I Cried" will show readers there is hope at the end of the tunnel, and that each of us has within us the power to heal ourselves. The book is definitely highly recommended and worth a universe of stars in its rating.

Spiritual Awakening
Iyanla Vanzant has had a tremendous life. This book reflects her experiences of excitement mixed with pain, sadness, love, joy, questionable relatives, interesting friends and a woman/girl who fights to be. The messages of self-discovery shared throughout the book will be an inspiration for any person who wants to scrap off the piles of mess that life situations have handed us, to find the real jewel in you. I highly recommend this book. It was entertaining yet serious enough to let us know that we really do need each other and we can overcome many obstacles if we stay focused. Iyanla was able to do it without even knowing she was focused. Once she realized that focus was important, she overcame obstacles that surprised even her. She wants you to know that you can do it to. Buy the book, get comfortable and read the book, then get busy working on you. You will get in touch with who you really are, if you are willing to take the challenge. This book is long overdue. Through Iyanla's experiences she is willing to help you do life a little better. Take the journey. It's worth it.

simply the best!!
I recommend this book to everyone who feels that they have many obstacles that block their way to possessing the goals they want. It is very inspiring and uplifting. This book is simply the best guide for looking inside of yourself for what you have and then using it to pull yourself up by the bootstraps. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and you will too.

Good Book!
I read this book a few years ago and I did then and still do today, think that it's a spectacular piece of work. One of the things that seems to stay right of the front of my mind, is when Iyanla talks about how your thinking changes and the things that were once important, will no longer be important. I didn't understand it when I read but after growing up, and going through, I now understand. As always, Thank You and Great Job Iyanla.

see the "lessons" of your own life
I found this book at a time when I was experiencing extreme confusion, pain, self-doubt, and depression. Along with the support of friends and a near-breakdown that took me to the door of madness, this book helped me reconsider my "problems" as opportunities for growth. I am aware that certain strains of Buddhism also speak of using problems as catapaults to growth. Here, Iyanla trances her life (almost chronologically) and, with hindsight, forms a lesson for each particular situation she faced. Many of her lessons came from difficult situations: abuse, infidelity, poverty, teenage pregnancy, an absent father, etc.

Central to her process is remembering, which from personal experience, is often one of the hardest things to do, especially if you have a vested interest in forgetting. But that's the point: without remembering, the lessons will never truly stick. And this act of remembering takes LOTS of effort and time. Iyanla, despite her "success" and public profile, admits that she still has healing to do, that in fact it's a life long process. This is especially true for those of us who have waited decades to actually begin to "clean up the crap." There are years of hard-wired behavior patterns that must be seen, analysed (self-analysis is a major part of her style/technique for growth), and then EFFORT must be applied to change them.

For anyone who has walked the path before, changing adult human behavior requires major effort and awareness. Iyanla's writing helps keep you in a place of awareness and helps refocus our efforts on our OWN LIFE and its meaning in the cosmos. In other words, while sometimes it appears we strive to change to make ourselves more attractive in a relationship, more employable, more socially interesting, ultimately we must change only for ourselves and our own desire for a BETTER life, a more intimate life with ourselves. Only once this is achieved can we hope to share with others.

There are many other techniques and ideas which are helpful. For example: old self vs. new self (Iyanla is not Iyanla's birth name but a name she took for her developing self); prayer (even if you don't believe in God or have a particular faith, prayer keeps you focused on what is necessary for your healing and growth); creating a supportive community.

Read, enjoy, and WORK with this book. I highly recommend it. It is like a memoir in some way, and shows how one woman mined her life for lessons and put forth the effort to remake herself beyond her subconsious patterns, fears, and social/economic class. ... Read more

Book Description

We all have questions about our lives, our souls, and loved ones who have passed on. Now we can find the answers.

For the first time, world-renowned spiritual medium and bestselling author James Van Praagh reveals the techniques that anyone can use to contact "the other side." Combining his own experiences with the testimony of others who have been touched by their spirit guides, Van Praagh encourages us to embark on our own journey of discovery, teaching us to

Book Description

James Van Praagh has touched the lives of millions with his extraordinary ability to communicate with the world beyond. In Talking to Heaven, his acclaimed #1 New York Times bestseller, he shared that gift and showed us how to break down the barrier between the earthly and heavenly realms to reach loved ones we have lost. Now, in Reaching to Heaven, he continues his uplifting and transcendent message and reveals how to chart a course for living as spiritual beings in a physical world that will sustain and fill us for decades to come.In this guide to inner peace and spiritual healing, the renowned medium shows us how we can greatly improve our feelings of self-esteem and self-worth by getting more deeply in touch with our emotional selves and the creative "god-like" nature we all possess.As in Talking to Heaven, Van Praagh shares moving stories of after-death communication. You'll be touched and inspired by true accounts that take us through the grieving process, show is how to ease the pain and hurt of living in the material world, and attain new levels of self-awareness, self-acceptance, and personal freedom.In this unique book, James Van Praagh takes us on a journey of hope, healing, and spiritual growth and enlightenment. Filled with his unshakable faith in our ability to achieve anything we set out to accomplish, Reaching to Heaven offers us an evolving vision of ourselves-- and a spiritual realm-- that is within our grasp ... Read more

Reviews (57)

Excellent for those ready to accept this.
Mr. Van Praagh has done an excellent job of sharing his understanding with the world. The book is well written and, in my opinion, superior to "Talking to Heaven." It was a joy to read spiritual truths hidden in many other traditions, presented in such a lucid and beautiful way. This could only come from a teacher with experience. Reaching to Heaven is a generous sharing of an enlightened soul. It is a given that the reader understand and accept the principles of reincarnation. Without an openness to those principles, the message will be unintelligible. May Mr. Van Praagh continue to do good works and resist the temptations the world is certain to place in his path.

VERY TOUCHING AND UP LIFTING.
I WAS AT SUCH PEACE READING THIS BOOK. TALKING TO HEAVEN WAS SO UP LIFTING AND TOUCHING. I WOUNDER ALL THE TIME AND I WAS SO PLEASE TO FIND THAT MY BELIEVES OF HEAVEN AND THE AFTER LIFE IS VERY MUCH I BELIEVE IT TO BE. AND THAT LOVE ONES I HAVE LOST WILL BE WAITING FOR ME. I CAN'T WAIT TO READ THE NEXT BOOK. AND HPOE TO MEET JAMES VAN PRAAGH SOME DAY.

Just Heaven
This is definitely the most enlightened, eloquent and concise book that I've read explaining the true nature of reality. This is the way it is, man. This is Good News.

Rush out and buy it now, why don't you.

Reaching for comfort
After reading many books by several empowering authors such as Betty Eadie, John Edward, Sylvia Browne, and Tiffany Snow, that I am still reading, my life has opened up to me in such a compelling and wonderful way. This new book is well written, and thought provoking. There are great transforming authors, who shift the consciousness of humankind in a way never known before, and have the courage to reveal their paranormal experiences. "Reaching to Heaven" is one of these.

This book is heaven-sent!
This book has given my life meaning, answered my questions, inspired me to explore my spirituality, and filled me with awe! I am 26 years old, and I just lost my fiance (my soul mate) to cancer. This book landed in my lap somehow, and has changed my entire outlook on life, death, and filled me with hope and faith and a new sense of motivation! If you have lost a loved one and grieved their "death", read this book. If you question the afterlife or God, read this book! Everyone who has an open mind and believes there's more to life than this but isn't sure what that is, you've gotta read this book!! :) It is truly the most inspiring book I have ever read! It's easy-to-read, informative, and concise. ... Read more

Book Description

In this live recording Iyanla Vanzant shares how we can put our principles into practice and bring transformation to our lives, our communities and our world.

Iyanla challenges us to open our hearts and our minds to explore transformation, so that we can be healed and changed at the soul level. If we are willing to know change, to be changed, we can see the miraculous power that comes when we change our perceptions of ourselves and the world around us.

Iyanla reminds us that through transformation, we can restore our true minds, and renew our hearts. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A MUST have!!!
This woman is TRULY amazing - I have read most of her books, but to hear her speak is unbelievable! This CD is truly inspiring for those of us going through tough transitional periods in our lives. It would also make a great gift for someone who is having a tough time with everything - she helps you think clearly. Wonderful!! ... Read more

Reviews (2)

A wonderful, complex mix of memoir and essay
Under the Mercy, a sequel to A Severe Mercy, is a fine mix of memoir and essays from the times discussed. Stylistically, it is less like a straightforward memoir (as A Severe Mercy was), and more like Newman's Apologia. The style is complex, and in the middle of the book the writing loses some of its quality (though the book revives for a very stirring ending). That said, the work displays a razor wit and stunning satirical ability that A Severe Mercy did not suggest Mr. Vanauken possessed. It shows a new side of Vanuken, and shows him developing as an author. The book also has Vanauken's accustomed emotional power, and if it is not quite as perfect as A Severe Mercy, it certainly has greater range in theme, tone, and style. A worthy work in its own right.

A sequel to A SEVERE MERCY
This book is a sequel to A SEVERE MERCY. It does not possess the writing unity of the first book, but is more like a collage or scrapbook. It will be interesting reading for all those who loved A SEVERE MERCY. I do not recommend reading UNDER THE MERCY, though, unless you have read A SEVERE MERCY first. ... Read more

Book Description

Meditate Your Way to True Peace and Wisdom

Meditations with James Van Praagh is an inspiring collection ofmeditations and affirmations that will empower you to connect with your inner self. Bestselling author and renowned spiritual medium Van Praagh offers over forty meditations, each of which addresses a specific issue or concern that may be blocking your spiritual journey, such as "Release the Past," "Confronting Fears," and "Tuning In to Abundance." By helping you to truly see, feel, and listen to your inner voice, Van Praagh leads you to develop the wonderful, innate abilities that let you become your best self. ... Read more

Book Description

Iyanla Vanzant is known internationally as the leading authority on spirituality and empowerment for Black women. As a featured speaker at the Million Man March, she launched her message to the Black men who have long been part of her following. With forthrightness and powerful insight, Vanzant teaches them how to recognize and draw upon the power of the spirit within themselves. Recognizing the obstacles set before Black men in the past and the powerful forces still at work against them today, Vanzant seeks to help both men and women nurture the strength and power they possess – that of their history, their souls, and their relationships with each other. The Spirit of a Man is a brilliant and transformative blend of practical self-help, contemporary spirituality and ancient African spiritual wisdom. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

The Spirit of every Man
Author IYANLA VANZANT offers a spectular guide line, for every man who want to know his spiritual side of themself. The book offers a great guide for Afro-Americans, especially young African American male. My two elder brother read this book and they recommended i read it. This is the first book of VANZANT that i have read, and i would recommmend young African Americans to really read this book. "America's greatest crime against the Black man was not slavery or the lynching, but that he was taught to wear a mask of slef-hate and self-doubt" -Malcolm X

The Author included this quote in the book, It truely inspired me to think about who I am as a young Africa American male. Thank You VANZANT

Iyanla, I love you!
I am a 21 year old black man, who for so long knew that there was more to life but could not figure out what it was. Months of searching lead me to realize that I had to become more spiritual. I went on to read numerous books on spirituality and self-improvement, but after learning these principles I had no way of applying them. This book showed me how to apply what i had learnt and also taught me a lot more things about life and my relationship with the Creator. This book is a must for every black man or woman who is at the entrance of the tunnel, sees the light at the end, but does not know how to walk through. Iyanla took my hand and I'm sure she'll take yours. After she has lead you to the light, you learn the ultimate lesson: you have been and will always be able to lead others through this tunnel. ... Read more

Book Description

Is it the job you hate but need in order to pay the rent? Is it that relationship that you gave your all to only to end up with a broken heart...again? Perhaps it's your children, a family member, or a life-long friend doing you in, dragging you down, pushing you to the brink. If you are an honorary member of the Black Woman's Suffering Society, you have probably been told that it's all your fault. Or that struggling and suffering is your lot in life. Iyanla Vanzant says, No! Life is an Act of Faith and suffering is optional! Those everyday challenges, obstacles, and dilemmas are what Iyanla calls "valleys." As bad as they may seem, there is a purpose or, as Iyanla says, "There is so much value in the valley."

If you've ever been disappointed, betrayed, rejected, abandoned, or just plain old scared to let go, then you've been or may still be in a valley. Iyanla knows -- she's been there and on a bad day she's still there, but now she shares the way out with you. ... Read more

Reviews (33)

Outstanding!
This book is exactly what I needed when I found myself deep into several valleys at the same time. It has really made a tremendous impact on my life and the lives of those who are closest to me. As I continue to work my way out of my valley's, you can bet this book will be there every step of the way . Thanks for the spiritual uplifting and awareness, sister Iyanla, it's just what I needed. In fact, I encourage every sister to read it whether you feel as though you are in a valley or not.

A Wonderful Inspiring Book for ALL Women!
This book was recommended to me by a black woman. She said it was a book for black women but it's really for all women. It will help you understand the misfortunes in your life and why we go through the same pain over and over again. When I started to read it, I found myself relating to a lot of the stories these women went through. And then she would explain why we choose the people we choose and why we go through it anyway when we know it's not good for us. I thought it was amazing. I have been recommending it to every woman I know ever since. It's an inspiring book and helps you become strong or stronger. It helps you empower yourself to controlling your life the way you would really want to live it. Definitely a book to read and have in your collection!

Wonderful
I saw a lot of me in reading this book. It really helped me to realize somethings about myself and why I do the things that I do. It was great. I would recommend it to anyone who needs clarity on themselves and their lives.

So Good I Had To Read It Three Times
I was first turned onto this book when I raided my sister's bookshelf. She is just as avid a reader as me and I go over her house to get reading material whenever I have run through all of my own. Now I own a copy of this book myself. I just had to have it. No book has come closer to evaluating my real life. If the things in one chapter didn't happen to me, then they have certainly happened to someone I know. I think this book should be required reading for all women, no matter what their age or race. It helps put a method to the madness of our daily lives and the things we endure in relationships.

ONE DAY MY SOUL OPENED UP
I HAVE NOT READ ANY OF YOUR BOOKS YET BUT i AM GETTING READY TO START READING ONE DAY MY SOUL OENED UP AND I BELIEVE AND FEEL THAT ALL YOUR BOOKS PERTAIN TO ME AND I HOPE THAT THEY WILL BE AN INSPIRATION TO ME AS THEY HAVE BEEN FOR OTHER READERS. I AM SO PROUD TO HAVE BEEN TOLD ABOUT YOU AND I FEEL I CAN RELATE TO YOU BECAUSE OUR STORIES ARE STILL THE SAME ONE DAY I WILL BE ABLE TO BE FREE SOUL AND BE HAPPY ABOUT MY LIFE SO I CAN LEAD A PRODUTIVE LIFE FOR MYSELF AND MY FAMILY THANK YOU SO MUCH AND CONTINUE YOUR GOOD WORKS! 1 ... Read more

Book Description

Over the years, bestselling author Iyanla Vanzant has received many letters from readers who want to know how to pray. Some are afraid they are praying wrong. Some want a formula. Some think their prayers are unworthy. Here, Iyanla shares the realizations that changed her experience with prayer once and for all: Every thought, every word, every action is a prayer; focus on God's presence in everything -- and everyone -- and prayer becomes as natural as breathing.

The prayers in Everyday I Pray culled from Iyanla's own prayer journal, address a variety of topics and situations. It is Iyanla's hope that they will spark a light in the hearts of readers, and that others will come to know the peace of God's grace. With this intimate collection, she invites readers everywhere to join her in making the thoughts, words, and deeds of everyday life more reverent, honorable, and loving. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Good and Good For You!
Every Day I Pray is a wonderful collection of prayers for many situations we all find ourselves in. I have been on a dedicated search to find a way to incorporate prayer into every aspect of my life, and am so thankful I found Iyanla Vanzant's books. Thank you Iyanla for putting into words that EVERYTHING we do/say/think is noticed by God and we should give it all to Him/Her in thanks. I especially like that Iyanla writes God as He/She, Him/Her, as I believe God to be a duality of both the male and female. God Bless and I hope you find what you need in this lovely book.

The Power of Prayer
EVERYDAY I PRAY is a collection of prayers written by Ms. Vanzant to address the everyday trials and tribulations that one may face. This collection seemingly has a prayer for every situation that extends to touch just about everyone! In reading through EVERYDAY I PRAY, one will feel inspired and reflective, thankful and serene.

Given to me as a gift, I picked up the book to casually peruse its pages. Let me tell you, there is nothing casual about EVERYDAY I PRAY. It is a powerful collection of prayers that has touched me. Ms. Vanzant has outdone herself once again!

Reviewed by Nedine
of The RAWSISTAZ Reviewers

Such a blessing and worth your time........
Having watched the author on television a few times it was the title of the book Every Day I Pray that caught my attention. Prayer has always been a fascinating subject to me, and I love learning how people pray and how they have evolved in their prayer life. The cover of the book gave me a hint that the small book I held in my hands would be worth my time.

She begins by saying "I grew up in the Holiness Church, where prayer was an event" and then she explains the effort and drama that happened in the church when prayer was discussed and practiced. Then she states "However, somewhere deep inside of me, I had the secret belief that I did not know how to pray, and that frightened me." Oh I know so well what she means....... She continues "I'm not sure where I heard it or why I believed it, but when I was in my mid-twenties a few words changed my approach to and experience of prayer. The words were these: 'Every thought you think is a prayer. Every word you speak is a prayer. Every act in which you engage is a prayer, because the Spirit of God lives in you' Now how awesome is that? I dint need drums. I didn't need to clap. I didn't need a host of other people to help me raise the volume of my prayers so that God would hear them. If the words of that statement are true, and I do believe they are, it means that at every moment of every day, I am communicating with the Creator of the universe."

On page 18 she notes "Once I got it straight, I realized that the essence, energy, power and presence of God is in fact house at the core of my being. I also understood that God does in fact hear every thought and word. His/her response show up as my experiences, my feelings and the many divine inspiration that have shaped the course of my life"

She then proceeds to share dozens of wonderful prayers of thanks and gratitude, seeking wisdom and guidance and simply prayers of joy. I loved the book since the author write as if she knew me. Knew my friend Cathy and my friend Cindy. We all have had conversations about prayer that mirror what she writes about. We have been on that same path and have found the same joy.

I also like the book because it has a Zen quality. You can slip inside your briefcase, carry all and in a few moments open it up read a prayerful thought she shares and find yourself renewed. It is almost like a literary meditation.

On page 54 she has the prayer "Please Untie the Nots" which in part says:

Dear God Please untie the nots that are invading my mind my heart and my life. Please remove the have nots the can nots and the do nots that invade my mind. Please erase the will nots, may nots, might nots, that invade my heart. Please release me from the could nots, would nots and should nots that invade my life. Most of all God I ask that you remove from my mind, heart and life all the am nots that I have allowed to hold me back.......

An incredible prayer book
This book is an incredible book of prayers. When I've needed encouragement, I've turned to one of the prayers and have been lifted. I have no problem with with the male/female references. God is a spirit...they that worship...

My young daughter reads them and is helped by them too.

Sometimes what I can't put into words what's deep in my spirit, Iyanla's prayers become my own and I'm empowered.

Excellent book.

I love the ending of each prayer... "And so it is"

I was a bit disappointed
As a woman who as been journaling prayers for years, I was very interested in her book. Her prayers are beautiful, however, my disappointment came when she seemed to think it necessary to make God a figure of 'polical correctness'. She refers to God as Him/Her or He/She. As a person who communicates with God regularly and supposedly reads the Word of God, I think she would be assured in her heart of the gender of God. And So HE is. Amen ... Read more