Customer Reviews

Blessings: Prayers and Declarations for a Heartful Life

5 star:		(10)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I truly consider myself blessed . . . so when I saw a friend had a book called BLESSINGS: PRAYERS AND DECLARATIONS FOR A
HEARTFUL LIFE (see also Section 11) by Julia Cameron, I aturally
asked to borrow it . . . and I'm glad that I did.

This is a short book of prayers and declarations that can be read in one sitting or spread over time . . . it reminded me of how good it is to be alive and, also, made me more fully appreciate the beauty that surrounds me.

Each blessing is preceded by an introductory quote . . . two
that I particularly liked:

It is not because things are difficult that we do not dare; it is
because we do not dare that they are difficult.--Seneca

In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity--Albert Einstein

Virtually every blessing touched me . . . however, to give you
a feel for the material, here's one I thought you might enjoy reading:

I love others for their true self

I bless and salute the divine goodness available for all human beings and in all human beings. I allow people to be uniquely themselves, bringing their true natures and true gifts to our relationships. I do not demand that those who love me change their essential nature for my comfort. I express them my nature. I tell them my truth. I do not hide or pretend I am different form what I am. I trust that each of us is a perfect part of the divine whole. I trust that each of us is as lovable as we are. I allow originality, inventiveness, and variability in my loving relationships. I invite the unique souls in my life to love me as
their true selves allow.

The book is relevent to anyone's life. You can find an entry that speaks the words that your heart is saying at this time or needs to say in the future.It was also useful for me in a conversation I had before I was even out of the store and had paid for it. I look forward to reading it again and using it with my college students in my job as Campus Minister.

I love this little book. On the outside, it's well made, sturdy, extended flaps on either side to use as bookmarkers....but that must be because they knew it would get a lot of use!

Inside each page is devoted to a specific blessing, at the top of the page there is a quote relevant to the topic, the blessing and then a brief essay/prayer. Each one is lovely.

Here are some examples of the topics: "The Seasons of my Heart have Purpose and Meaning", "This Earth is Radiant with Grace", "My Strength is a Fortress". But the words that follow are the real gems. Ms. Cameron writes with sensitivity and grace, in a way that seems to speak to the heart, no matter what your religous belief. I've found this book very valuable in my morning devotions.

I don't know what the author's religion is, but I suspect she is not Jewish. Nonetheless, this book was given to me by a Rabbi because the sentiments are universal. I have been through a couple of very emotional experiences recently and through these experiences, I have sought to become closer to God. The journey is often difficult and the relections and experiences of others make this journey a little less uncharted. I find the sentiments in this book to be moving and I recommend that you seek out those reflections which are most meaningful to you and to spend time truly concentrating on them.

This is JC at her best. This little book is not preachy but fresh in its approach on all angles of life, with easy reading in a pleasant format. I bought it for myself when I was going thru some tough emotional times several years ago, and still keep it around to read a page from here and there, just for perspective. More recently, I bought it for someone dear to me who has just gone thru a divorce. It's uplifting and genuine in its gentle message.

A wonderful book with many wonderful "blessings" selections to read aloud and share. A friend uses this regularly before guided meditations. Selections are short and sweet.

This is a new title for me and I am slowly and deliciously working my way through it. I often call friends and share passages. I keep it by my meditation/prayer spot so I can dip into it in my quiet space.

I received this book as a gift; and it's the sort of gift that has continued to give to me. Cameron's talent shines in these poetic blessings that can be savored individually in times of spiritual hunger or consumed together like a fulfilling multi-coursed meal.

I am a hospice chaplain and bought this book as a present to the staff. I asked that staff members pass on the book to someone they think needs a blessing. We have hard days. Sometimes someone in our own family is ill or dies. Several staff members told me how much it meant to have this book passed on to them and that they are ordering their own copy, they liked it that much. It is just right for someone busy and needing affirmation to continue on.

Great Book for any artist, author etc. Julia Cameron is in my opinion one of the best encourager for all people in the arts of any field... would highly recommend any of her books...