I heard from a neighbor out my way who appreciated our last edition of North Shore Reading Round Up. Bruce Stipe said the column got him thinking about how he reviews books. I’ve continued to think about reviews and reviewers, too. I’m glad I am not the only reviewer or recommender in our Reading Round Up. A variety of readers keeps the conversation honest and useful because each of us brings a different way of seeing.
Stipe also got me thinking about books that help us get through, enlighten us, and fire the neurons in our brains that leave their spark for hours, days, or even many years. He happens to be re-reading The Lord Is My Shepherd by Harold S. Kushner, a book he first read in the 90s while doing ministry.
It is easy to understand why Kushner’s messages feel steadying right now.
“Its message is breathe and we can’t control the bad,” Stipe explained. “And accept the present with gratitude and grace to cope with everyday aspects of life.”
Kushner’s book is about how the Twenty-third Psalm offers practical spiritual grounding in a world that does not promise safety. He uses each line of the psalm to show readers how to live with courage, honesty, and gratitude, even when life is marked by grief or uncertainty.
The book argues that God’s promise is not to shield us from hardship, but to accompany us through it, a presence that can steady us in the most challenging of stretches.
Stipe’s reflections also reminded me that many of us have a book we return to when life tilts. Certain titles stay with us because they offer clarity or steadiness at the right moment. One of those books for me has been The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz. It is a short guide for a self-help book at just over 150 pages. It’s built around four principles that encourage clearer thinking and calmer reactions.
I first read it during a stretch when I needed something simple and practical to hold on to when I was sort of in a spin. Its direct language stayed with me. I once vowed to read it every year, but it has been quite a while. I would not mind a revisit soon so I can reset on 1) being impeccable with my word, 2) not taking things personally, 3) not making assumptions, and 4) doing my best. See? Simple and practical concepts!
North Shore reading friends, is there a book that you return to when times are tough? Or even one you reach for when you need an escape? Which titles have stayed with you? I would love to hear from you about all of the above and all things bookish. Help keep this column going and help other readers stay informed about what you are picking up, putting down, or returning to once or many times. Write to sarahwritesnsj@yahoo.com and let us know. You can remain anonymous if you’d like.
