Book Description
There are more than one billion Catholics in the world, and each one has a similar set of basic beliefs and practices that he or she follows. Some of the teachings of Catholicism are thousands of years old, while others are more recent. So what is the Catholic culture like and what do they believe? Catholicism For Dummies answers these and many other questions.
Whether you’re a Catholic or not, you may be totally clueless or just unaware of some aspects of Catholic traditions, history, doctrine, worship, devotion, or culture. No sweat. Regardless of whether you’re engaged, married, related to a Catholic, or just curious about what Catholics really do believe, this book is for you.
Catholicism For Dummies is not a catechism or religious textbook, but a casual, down-to-earth introduction for non-Catholics and reintroduction for Catholics. It gives commonsense explanations so that the next time you’re invited to a Catholic wedding, Baptism, funeral, Confirmation, or First Communion, you won’t be totally confused. You’ll also discover other important topics that can help you better understand the Catholic culture—from morality and devotions to worship and liturgy. This book will familiarize you with Catholicism by showing you:
- What it means to be a Catholic: traditions, prayers, beliefs, and holidays
- Who is who in the Catholic hierarchy
- How Catholics worship
- What the Seven Sacraments and Ten Commandments are
- The book regarded as the holiest to Catholics: The Bible
- The Church’s stand on some sticky issues
Catholicism For Dummies presents a rich tapestry and history of the Catholic faith—from devotions to doctrines. This intelligent and faithful look at Catholicism will open your eyes to this religion and answer many of the questions you may have about it.
Customer Reviews:
Wonderful Reference.......2007-08-25
My husband is in RCIA and this has been his "text book" ! Very informative, well written. Highly Recommended!
Read this..........2007-05-15
They bilk the parishioners, as the priest live in a lap of luxury surrounded by gold. Everyone knows the Vatican has Billions of dollars, but keeps it's book secret so we can not know how many billions they have. Meanwhile, in the churches where the victims want justice, they just throw up their hands and say "we are bankrupt". The Bible says that a Priest or "Bishop" MUST be a married man. The people who let these pedophile priest jump from parish to parish to get fresh kids should also be thrown in jail. The most serious problem however, is that the Catholic church has people fooled into believing it is a "Christian Church", it is far from it. They call their own shots calling themselves "Infallible", meaning whatever they say or do can't be wrong. I am somewhat puzzled by the people who still attend there. They rape kids, then covered it up, why are you still a part of that organization? You should never confess to a priest, that is putting someone between you and Jesus. Jesus is the only mediator, if you read the real bible KJV, it will tell you the truth. The catholic Manuscripts were created by the Alexandrians, another cult found in Egypt. To top things off, the current Pope even swore in before as a Hitler Nazi Oath as a youth. This church isn't Christian, it just pays "lip service" to let everyone think they are. The priest are living in the lap of Luxury, while the victims live without reparations. My heart goes out to all the victims of the Catholic Church. Please stand up for the victims, and do not continue to look the other way because you are also guilty of association if you say and do nothing.
Catholicism for Dummies.......2007-05-12
bought as a gift. The person just love the book has thanked me several times.
Catholocism for Dummies.......2007-05-07
This is a good book for looking up anything pertaining to our Catholic Faith. It is easy to find the topics and explains it well. I have bought several of these books as gifts and a few for our Parish Library. Highly recommend.
Just the facts.......2007-04-25
A well-communicated summary of Roman Catholic doctrine and tradition. A good start for anyone interested in getting past the basics in preparation for further serious study. A handy resource for those who simply want a basic understanding of Catholic doctrine and practice. The approach seems to be one of simply reporting the facts without much emotional attachment by the authors and in that respect it seemed to be lacking some of the impact it might otherwise have. But such an approach may be exactly what most readers are looking for in this genre.
Average customer rating:
- A Classic
- One of the Best Overall Defenses of Christianity
- Inspiring
- Incredible Perspectives
- Life-changing
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Mere Christianity
C. S. Lewis
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ASIN: 0060652926
Release Date: 2001-02-05 |
Book Description
A forceful and accessible discussion of Christian belief that has become one of the most popular introductions to Christianity and one of the most popular of Lewis’s books. Uncovers common ground upon which all Christians can stand together.
Customer Reviews:
A Classic.......2007-09-28
This book needs no introduction. Originally published more than 60 years ago during World War II, Mere Christianity remains relevant on every level today. C.S. Lewis provides not only a strong and well-reasoned defense of the Christian faith, but gives the reader plenty of wise advice on leading the Christian life. This is a book that should be read and re-read.
One of the Best Overall Defenses of Christianity.......2007-09-19
C.S. Lewis' masterpiece "Mere Christianity," which was adapted from a series of radio talks he gave in the 1940s, is both a convincing case for the truth of Christianity and an important reminder of its importance in our own lives. Preferring to forgo denominational debates and dogmatism, Lewis instead offers a case for the basic, essential tenets of the Christian faith.
Lewis accomplishes so much in this valuable book. To start off, Lewis establishes the existence of God via a convincing presentation of the Morality Argument. He argues that humans all have a basic moral code which we know that we should follow but which we know we fail to follow. God, argues Lewis, provides the explanation for this prescriptive moral law that we find ourselves obliged to obey. Near the end of the book, Lewis delves into the more difficult topics of theology including the nature of the Trinity and God's relationship to time. He handles these difficult topics remarkably well with his engaging style of writing.
But more than providing a convincing case for the truth of God's existence and Christianity, Lewis also provides a very powerful explanation of morality. He discusses moral issues that are relevant both for people in general and for Christians in particular. These chapters about morality are simply excellent. Even though they aren't apologetic in nature, I found Lewis' exposition of morality very useful and so persuasive that I think it will have a positive impact on my own life. Near the end of the book, Lewis gives a very convicting argument for the importance of taking Christianity seriously.
Mere Christianity is easy to read, and Lewis' style of providing simple analogies makes complicated topics intelligible and interesting. It may not be a heavily referenced or scholarly tome about Christian apologetics, but it is a convincing, clear, and simple defense of mere Christianity and of Christ's importance in our lives. Overall, "Mere Christianity" is a fantastic book that everyone, believer or unbeliever, should read.
Inspiring.......2007-09-10
I listened to this book on cd which I have found is a great way to get insirational advice everyday and further myself as a person. I loved C.S Lewis's Mere Christianity. It gives a educated view into why he believes in God and more specifically the Christian God. He is a great writer and the book is very intellegent. I would recommend this book to anyone and everyone.
Incredible Perspectives.......2007-09-10
This book was a suggested read by a "non-Christian" friend of mine that thought I should give it to everyone I was trying to disciple. Wow...what a read. Not only did this book strengthen my faith, but for a borderline unbeliever to suggest I read it was unbelieveable. C.S. Lewis knocked it out of the park! This book is perfect for every person not sure if God is real and if His name is Jesus. This will be an annual read for me, reminding me to think way outside the little box I have created about God. Awesome Book
Life-changing.......2007-09-04
Read this at 20 - made more sense at 30. I like the second half especially. The insights were helpful to me.
Amazon.com
The Return of the Prodigal Son: A Story of Homecoming is a spiritual adventure story. A chance encounter with a poster depicting a detail of Rembrandt's The Return of the Prodigal Son set in motion a chain of events that enabled Nouwen to redefine and claim his vocation late in his life. In this book, which interweaves elements of art history, memoir, Midrash, and self-help, Nouwen brings the parable to life with empathic analyses of each character. Nouwen's absorption in the story (and the painting) is so complete that the father's challenge to love the son, and the son's challenge to receive that love, become Nouwen's own. And Nouwen's writing is so clear and his tone is so appealingly frank and humble that readers--no matter how far from home--will find hope for themselves in the prodigal peace Nouwen ultimately achieves. --Michael Joseph Gross
Book Description
The beloved spiritual writer meditates on the parable of the prodigal son's return -- a powerful drama of fatherhood, filial duty, rivalry, and anger between brothers -- and its enduring lessons for Christianity.
Full-color photographs with gatefold.
Customer Reviews:
Return of the Prodigal Son: A story of Homecoming.......2007-10-01
I read 3 Nouwen books at the same time. This was excellent and gave me a very new understanding of this story in the bible. This and the other two books I read (Reaching Out and Can You Drink the Cup) were excellent spiritual reading.
A book you cannot forget.......2007-09-27
This is by far the best book for a troubled soul. It surrounds the reader with hope and warmth and kindness. When all is bleak, this is the book that will give the reader confidence in life.
Return of the Prodigal Son.......2007-09-05
This book was such an inspiration to me that I gave my copy away for someone else to read and now need more to give away!
Nouwen at his best.......2007-08-31
This is a masterpiece! Nouwen looks at the prodigal son through the perspectives of the prodigal, the older brother and the father. It allows us to identify with each of the characters at different points in our lives. Rembrandt's imagery of the father is very moving. It gives a beautiful perspective of the desire, mercifulness, and love that our Lord has for us sinners. I highly reccomend this book. It is one of the best books on spirituality I have read.
Excellent book.......2007-08-31
Herni Nouwen does a great job on decribing the parable of the prodigal son. A great book to read for someone who has had a friend or family member who has gone astray.
Amazon.com
Much like Zen, Pema Chodron's interpretation of Tibetan Buddhism takes the form of a nontheistic spiritualism. In When Things Fall Apart this head of a Tibetan monastery in Canada outlines some relevant and deceptively profound terms of Tibetan Buddhism that are germane to modern issues. The key to all of these terms is accepting that in the final analysis, life is groundless. By letting go, we free ourselves to face fear and obstacles and offer ourselves unflinchingly to others. The graceful, conversational tone of Chodron's writing gives the impression of sitting on a pillow across from her, listening to her everyday examples of Buddhist wisdom.
Book Description
The beautiful practicality of her teaching has made Pema Chödrön one of the most beloved of contemporary American spiritual authors among Buddhists and non-Buddhists alike. A collection of talks she gave between 1987 and 1994, the book is a treasury of wisdom for going on living when we are overcome by pain and difficulties. Chödrön discusses: Using painful emotions to cultivate wisdom, compassion, and courage Communicating so as to encourage others to open up rather than shut down Practices for reversing habitual patterns Methods for working with chaotic situations Ways for creating effective social action
Customer Reviews:
One of Pema's best books!.......2007-09-27
There is no way you could NOT feel better about anything going on in your life after reading this book.
Simple, Real, and Easy to Follow.......2007-09-12
Pema Chodron is one of the most real and down to earth practicing Buddhist teachers I have come across to date. She brings forth the great wisdom from her own two marriages, children and personal life lessons. She has been a great source of comfort to me during my own difficult times in life and really helped me practice Buddhism in a way that has helped me understand my higher calling and why I am here. I highly recommend this book and all of her books.
Guidance without hyperbole.......2007-06-27
I have always read and re-read the works of Chogyam Trungpa Rinpoche,deeply appreciating his ability to cut through life's muddled battles. Pema Chodron is easily as gifted a writer as Rinpoche, her teacher.
This book is plain, direct, humble and real. She never offers "solutions" but instead gently guides you to look in places you pass by every day. I've had a crazy year, and reading this book got me back to the place we always are: now.
After reading this, I realized, with a laugh, that I'm already Buddhist and I might as well accept it and get some meditation instruction.
Life's Energy, When Things Fall Apart, Start From Where You Are, etc........2007-06-18
Pema Chodron is, without a doubt, an inspirational phenom. She brings the concepts of Buddhism in a down to earth compassionate manner. Before becoming a Buddhist Nun, born in the U.S., she spent early adulthood, as wife and mother, in the southwest. As an American her teachings offer a bridge and insight connecting western culture and Buddhist concepts that just make sense. This book as well as her other publications have helped to provide a spiritual centering and peace, whether in daily life or as a concerned citizen in a very troubled nation and world. If you're on a path to true awareness, emotional health and spiritual depth, then Pema's works are key.
Packs a kharmic wallop.......2007-06-06
A zen man for 40 years, I often find Tibetan Buddhism mired in three-of-this and eight-of-that. But this book is an exception. Chodron packs a wallop that's more powerful, penetrating, profound, and personal than I've dared stand up to in a decade. You needn't accept Buddhism, foreswear Christianity, or even the NEW YORK TIMES. She simply points to a world of sanity that underlies "all the above." CAVEAT: If you read more than a chapter a day, you're only devouring it, not digesting it.
Book Description
Revised Edition. Carnes offers us exercises, inventories, and guided reflections for those of us facing the daily challenges of attaining or maintaining an addiction-free lifestyle. This revised edition of A Gentle Path through the Twelve Steps is a treasure chest, a rich and powerful resource for anyone working a twelve-step program. Carnes is a gifted teacher and leader in the addiction recovery field. Wendy Maltz, M.S.W., Sexual Healing Journey This unique, non-threatening workbook emphasizes common themes at the heart of all Twelve Step fellowships...an especially clear explanation of what "working the program" means. Claudia Black, Ph.D., It Will Happen to Me The revised A Gentle Path through the Twelve Steps gets my highest recommendation. It is a wonderful guide to the journey to restoration and healing. Marilyn Murray, M.A., Prisoner of Another War To get through difficult times, we need good friends, wise mentors and compassionate recovery programs. Pat Carnes and his twelve-step guide have been all of these to me, personally, and more. A Gentle Path through the Twelve Steps Revised Edition is a principle guide to following the path of the many stages we encounter daily. Brenda Schaeffer, Licensed Psychologist, Loving Me Loving You and Is It Love or Is It Addiction A Gentle Path through the Twelve Steps has already helped thousands and promises to help many more. Mark R. Laaser, Ph.D., The Secret Sin: Healing the Wounds of Sexual Addiction
Customer Reviews:
A Gentle Path Through The Twelve Steps.......2007-10-02
This book is an excellent resource for guiding someone through the twelve step process or for working the twelve steps as part of an individual recovery program. Each step requests detailed information which encourages the participant to dig deep into ones core beliefs, thoughts, and feelings as they pertain to themselves and the subject matter. I would recommend this book to anyone contemplating or interested in the 12-step process of recovery.
Thorough.......2007-08-23
If you're looking for a guide to help you work the steps for more than one issue, this is the book to use. It's a good guide to use with a small group. And, even though you may think you have only one addiction, chances are, if you're creative like the rest of us, you get clean in one area only to discover you've traded up to new and more insidious compulsive behavior.
Ready to get, clean, honest and grow up? This book will help!
Must Have Book for Anyone Involved in the 12 Steps.......2006-07-21
This book is truly a must have, inspiring, comprehensive, and enlightening guide through the 12 steps within any recovery program. I have used this with countless clients in therapy and have had nothing but great results. This book is highly recommended for all clinicians and anybody wising to grow in the 12 step process.
Stronger for Addicts than Co-Addicts?.......2005-11-28
Patrick Carnes has been a grounder-breaker in every sense concerning sexual addiction. I feel ambivalent about this offering, however. I think on the whole it's a stronger book for addicts than for codependents. The material seems to revolve around addiction with co-addiction serving as an afterthought, both figuratively and literally. As a recovering codependent, I yearn for materials that address my issues head-on instead of relating me to the addicts in my life. Something about this material makes me feel second-class and doesn't inspire me to go as deeply as I could.
Although it's on order and I can't review it yet, I suggest that codependents take a look at Pia Mellody's 12 step workbook, Breaking Free, as an alternative. Her Facing Codependence contains some extraordinarily muscular, clear-sighted work on codependence as an illness that stands on its own, and if the workbook has anything in common, it should prove useful.
SAA of Tulsa.......2005-10-14
The primary workbook for our Fellowship in Tulsa. We've also tried 4 others, which are good, but have come back to this one. Sometimes a little clinical, but very thorough. Should be done with the guidance of a sponsor. Just "surrender" to following the book and results WILL come. Prepare to spend several months to really examine yourself, do the writings, and truly internalize the Steps. Can't be rushed, yet can't procrastinate. Carnes is really the "guru" on this topic. We've read most of his books, and their just great.
Average customer rating:
- You Mean I'm Not Lazy, Stupid or Crazy?!: The Classic Self-Help Book for Adults with Attention Deficit Disorder
- Excellent book on Adult ADHD
- Finally it's mine!
- you mean I'm not lazy, stupid or crazy
- You Mean I'm Not Lazy, Stupid or Crazy?
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You Mean I'm Not Lazy, Stupid or Crazy?!: The Classic Self-Help Book for Adults with Attention Deficit Disorder
Kate Kelly , and
Peggy Ramundo
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philosophy hope in a jar daily moisturizer
ASIN: 0743264487 |
Book Description
With over a quarter million copies in print, You Mean I'm Not Lazy, Stupid or Crazy?! is one of the bestselling books on attention deficit disorder (ADD) ever written. There is a great deal of literature about children with ADD. But what do you do if you have ADD and aren't a child anymore? This indispensable reference -- the first of its kind written for adults with ADD by adults with ADD -- focuses on the experiences of adults, offering updated information, practical how-tos and moral support to help readers deal with ADD. It also explains the diagnostic process that distinguishes ADD symptoms from normal lapses in memory, lack of concentration or impulsive behavior. Here's what's new:
- The new medications and their effectiveness
- The effects of ADD on human sexuality
- The differences between male and female ADD -- including falling estrogen levels and its impact on cognitive function
- The power of meditation
- How to move forward with coaching
And the book still includes advice about:
- Achieving balance by analyzing one's strengths and weaknesses
- Getting along in groups, at work and in intimate and family relationships -- including how to decrease discord and chaos
- Learning the mechanics and methods for getting organized and improving memory
- Seeking professional help, including therapy and medication
Customer Reviews:
You Mean I'm Not Lazy, Stupid or Crazy?!: The Classic Self-Help Book for Adults with Attention Deficit Disorder.......2007-08-17
This is a must-have for people with ADHD or those who interact with an ADHD individual. I have gotten to understand myself better from reading this book, and I feel a sense of relief now that I know I am not "Lazy, Stupid or Crazy!" I actually had a hard time putting this book down, it was easy to read after a long day at work - I was surprised to find it so humorous and entertaining - something that I haven't found too often in a book of this sort. It is by far the best book on ADHD that I have read; I highly recommend it.
Excellent book on Adult ADHD.......2007-01-24
An excellent book on the subject of adult ADHD. If you think you have it, or have been recently diagnosed, this book will give you a great deal of insight into the disorder, and offer loads of self-help advice. Written by two women who themselves have adult ADHD, they really know what they're talking about. Buy it today!
Finally it's mine!.......2007-01-23
I checked this book out from my local library and was amazed as I read it. They were talking about me! I checked it out again a year later and began rereading it. I saw so much more that time. I renewed it the maximum amount of times and had to return it. After I checked it out for the third time I got around to buying it. Now I can read again --- but this time make all kinds of notes in the margins. Thank you for a wonderful reference, a lifesaver for me.
you mean I'm not lazy, stupid or crazy.......2007-01-15
I was not disappointed in the condition of the book, and it arrived within in a timely manner. No complaints - good service.
You Mean I'm Not Lazy, Stupid or Crazy?.......2007-01-11
Easy to understand. A help in understanding the problem people have. I helps the victim and the victimized.
Book Description
Mrs. Cowman's classic devotional will inspire fresh hope, confidence, and a deep awareness of God's presence in your life are presented in one volume for morning or evening devotional reading.
Customer Reviews:
GMA Robin Robert's Favorite thing. Now mine........2007-05-25
We shared this with all our kids. This book in a great way to start your day, second only to the Good Book. A really good feeling book.
Living Water--Streams in the Desert.......2007-05-18
As a desert dweller, I know how important water is. Here, we never travel without a bottle of water, even to the grocery store. Christ said He came to give us living water--that is what this book does. It quenches the thirst of the soul--that inward longing we all have for more than what can be found in our material lives.
Over the years, I have read many daily devotionals. Streams in the Desert is without a doubt the most unique, and the most encouraging. First published in 1925, this book is a fountain of wisdom and encouragement. While the language might seem a bit old-fashioned to some, it is not a deterrent to the subject matter. The book is Bible-based, and quotes are from individuals, sermons, poems, stories, hymns, and of course, the Bible itself.
All of us deal with hardship in our lives--for me it is cancer. I use this book in tandem with my daily Bible reading and prayer.
Streams in the Desert comforts; it speaks to suffering, encourages faith, and would be an excellent gift for anyone who is going through difficult times.
Or for anyone who is thirsty for that living water.
Peace in a storm.......2007-04-03
This is one devotional you must have as you journey through life. Mrs Charles Cowman reminds the faithful follower of Christ that storms and trials that beset one actually come to make one more like Jesus.
In it there is refreshment for the soul who cannot seem to see the light at the end of the tunnel, as well as encouragement that the Master has it all planned out for His Glory.
Above all else it tells the age old story - trials are not new, only recycled and are common to man.
In this devotional, each new passage gives one testimony that cheers the soul, that all is well, that all will be well.
Streams.......2007-03-23
I enjoy this book but sometimes I have a hard time understanding what some of the people are saying. I am using it in my prayer time. Thank you!
In this day and age, uplifting is good!.......2007-03-21
I don't have alot of time in the day to just sit down and read something...but this is something that I hope will be passed down generation to generation as a "treasure". I do have a couple of minutes each morning to read a quick uplifting thought to keep my spirit happy for the day and give me something to think about...and hopefully pass on to others. This book should be a staple in every home.
Amazon.com
In 1943 Great Britain, when hope and the moral fabric of society were threatened by the relentless inhumanity of global war, an Oxford don was invited to give a series of radio lectures addressing the central issues of Christianity. Over half a century after the original lectures, the topic retains it urgency. Expanded into book form, Mere Christianity never flinches as it sets out a rational basis for Christianity and builds an edifice of compassionate morality atop this foundation. As Mr. Lewis clearly demonstrates, Christianity is not a religion of flitting angels and blind faith, but of free will, an innate sense of justice and the grace of God.
Book Description
THE BELOVED BESTSELLING CLASSIC OF CHRISTIAN FAITH
Mere Christianity is C. S. Lewis's forceful and accessible doctrine of Christian belief. First heard as informal radio broadcasts and then published as three separate books -- The Case for Christianity, Christian Behavior, and Beyond Personality -- Mere Christianity brings together what Lewis sees as the fundamental truths of the religion. Rejecting the boundaries that divide Christianity's many denominations, C. S. Lewis finds a common ground on which all those who have Christian faith can stand together, proving that "at the centre of each there is something, or a Someone, who against all divergences of belief, all differences of temperament, all memories of mutual persecution, speaks with the same voice."
Customer Reviews:
Maybe the best defense of Christianity in the last 200 years.......2007-05-02
"Mere Christianity" is an excellent defense of Christianity for the average Joe. More than a few scholars of religion and theology will be disappointed in C.S. Lewis' simplistic analogies, explanations and theory (though readers of all ages will love them). His attack of the notion that Christ was not more than a great moral teacher is top-notch and memorable. Post-feminist readings of the chapters on marriage and sexuality will surely produce numerous critiques, but Lewis anticipates and effectively knocks down most of their contentions by explaining that Christianity was never meant to be popular or easy because it was not invented for quick, mass acceptance--it is what it is, not what every generation would have it. Popular fashions come and go, God is eternal.
Lewis is unafraid to tell the reader what he cannot know, either because of personal limitations or those of man in general. Still, this rarely softens the cogency of his larger points. His prose is a model for writers everywhere. I whole-heartedly recommend "Mere Christianity" for believers, skeptics and everything in between.
The Journey Starts Here, But . . ........2007-02-15
This classic work contains the response of popular Christian apologetist C. S. Lewis to three fundamental questions:
1. Is there a God?
2. Is God a good and loving God, or is he indifferent to us?
3. Is Christ what he says he is (Savior of mankind)?
Lewis gives skillful, entertaining and relatively brief responses, but an atheist once pointed out to me that Lewis left a gigantic hole in the third argument - how do we know that the quotations of Christ in the Bible that we read today are accurate? So, the journey starts here, but it does not end here. I next turned to The Historical Reliability of the Gospels by Craig L. Blomberg, and The Case for Christ: A Journalist's Personal Investigation of the Evidence for Jesus by Lee Strobel. In the interest of staying on point, I'll discuss those books elsewhere and conclude by highly recommending this book to those new to Christianity or Christian apologetics, but with the caveat that it takes the answer to one crucial question completely for granted.
Solid, consistent and enjoyable.......2007-01-16
Originally a series of radio broadcasts that were transcribed into book form with the author's help, C. S. Lewis' witty and systematically logical defense of Christianity still endures as a favorite today. Although intellectual works of this caliber can seem intimidating, his conversational style of communication makes the book approachable and thoroughly enjoyable. He not only addresses the common sense of Christianity, but also thoughtfully doesn't neglect the practical need, the heartfelt void, that Christ alone can fill. All in all, this book is an all-around, solid work that consistently covers all the bases of thought and makes for a great read.
Mere Propaganda.......2006-07-24
The problem I've always had with Christianity (among other religions) is that it tells you what's wrong with you without asking for any feedback from you (unless your feedback agrees with Christian theology), then offers the "only possible way" to fix you. And should you feel that "the way" honestly doesn't make sense to you, you're told that's part of your problem. And further, that if you don't come around to "the truth," the worst tortures await you.
Does that tactic sound familiar? Think fascism, communism and every other flavor of totalitarianism. The tragedy of Christianity (and, again, of quite a few other religions) is that it turns the Source of Life and Love into just another dictator, and turns us into that dictator's eternally cringing underlings. That may be Christianity's idea of God, but it certainly isn't mine. And somehow I suspect it isn't God's idea of God either.
I found "Mere Christianity" to be an excellent representation of Christianity. Other Amazon reviewers have already given examples of Mr. Lewis's convuluted logic in presenting his case. So I'll just add two more.
Mr. Lewis says the one thing we must never do is see Jesus as merely a highly enlightened teacher. According to Mr. Lewis, we have only three choices, based on Jesus's life: that Jesus was either Lord, liar or lunatic.
I honestly don't see why I can't have that fourth choice: to see Jesus as a highly enlightened teacher. But that's because I don't consider the Bible the inerrant word of God. I believe the gospels were written by very human beings who shaped a lot of it to put across their own agendas. Thus I don't see these recordings of Jesus's life as inerrant either--though I do see many, many examples of high-enlightenment in them.
In Mr. Lewis's argument for Jesus being one of the "three L's," he assumes that we've accepted--or must accept--the Bible as the inerrant word of God. But before you make a logical argument, you must be sure the people you're addressing are in agreement with the assumptions behind that argument--in this case, that the Bible IS the "inerrant word of God."
Mr. Lewis never bothers to do that legwork. What he does (as do, from my experience, most other Christians) is make assumptions FOR us, and then argue from there. Naturally, the arguments fall flat if we haven't accepted those assumptions in the first place. And because I haven't, the fourth choice opens wide and invitingly for me: that Jesus was a highly enlightened teacher.
In the second example, Mr. Lewis extols the Christian doctrine of having sex only within marriage, and being completely chaste otherwise. To justify this, Mr. Lewis points out our sex-fixated culture and claims that this is the result of letting our animal drives take the lead in our lives. He asks us how we would view a culture that fixated on food (assuming the people of that culture weren't starving)--a culture which, for example, had the food equivalent of strip shows: audiences gaping lustily as a plate of food was shown on stage. Isn't our own culture's focus on sex just as pathetic?
What Mr. Lewis overlooks is the fact that when we fixate on anything (again, assuming we're not starving for it), it's never about the thing itself but about OTHER issues going on inside us. People who continually overeat don't do it because they're biologically hungry. And people who continually focus on sex, even though they might already be having sex on a regular basis, are not doing it because they're biologically in need of sex. Again, there are other things going on which have nothing to do with sex.
Thus, Mr. Lewis makes the following assumptions (as always, without consulting us beforehand on whether we agree with those assumptions): (1) Any focus on sex outside of the context of marriage is purely a matter of our sexual drive and has nothing to do with anything else going on inside us; and (2) the way we experience our sexual drive now is part of the consequences we suffered after our Fall.
And with these assumptions, Mr. Lewis arrives at his "logical" conclusion: that the (as usual) "only way" to live happily and healthily with such a sex drive as ours is to observe the doctrine of absolute chastity outside of marriage.
I suggest there are other ways. For example: to learn to be very conscious of what's really going on with you, and decline from using sex to act out your issues. Further, to resolve to always treat your intimate partner with honesty, consideration and affection, and never ever use him or her for merely your own gratification. For the result of using another person is invariably not only alienation from that person, but from ourselves.
In any case, there's absolutely no truly logical argument that can be made for only having sex within the context of marriage, and being totally chaste outside of it. If you choose to accept that theology for your own life, fine. But don't ever try to make it seem logical, when it's really a matter of private faith.
Several reviewers have stated that they began Mr. Lewis's book as a non-Christian and finished it as a Christian. I began Mr. Lewis's book as a non-Christian, and finished it absolutely affirmed in my faith, which is highly spiritual and sees God in the most unconditionally loving terms. I thank Mr. Lewis for that.
Thoroughly recommended!.......2006-06-05
This is one of Lewis's most famous and oft-quoted works, and for good reason. It is an honest and intelligent - not to mention brilliantly written - examination of the many facets of the Christian faith and human nature: the existence of and belief in God, the Trinity, faith, love, pride, morality etc. Although written during World War Two, the subjects explored still resonate powerfully with contemporary concerns.
I found the opening chapters particularly helpful in presenting a well-argued case for the rational foundations of Christianity, or at least belief in the existence of God. It offers a challenge to Christians to question the intellectual grounds for their faith, and the reassurance that sufficient answers can be found. Non-Christians looking to investigate the rational basis of Christianity, or of religion in general, will also find this an accessible and thought-provoking read.
The book is also an ideal place to start for anyone thinking to dip into the non-fiction works of C. S. Lewis. No book in my opinion gives the reader a better first taste of the prolific author's delicious prose, keen intellect and razor-sharp wit.
I cannot recommend this book more. For the Christian, for the non-Christian, and for the fan of `good books': this is a must-read!
Book Description
Award-winning writer Kim Edwards's The Memory Keeper's Daughter is a brilliantly crafted family drama that explores every mother's silent fear: what would happen if you lost your child and she grew up without you?
On a winter night in 1964, Dr. David Henry is forced by a blizzard to deliver his own twins. His son, born first, is perfectly healthy. Yet when his daughter is born, he sees immediately that she has Down's syndrome. Rationalizing it as a need to protect Norah, his wife, he makes a split second decision that will alter all of their lives forever. He asks his nurse to take the baby away to an institution and never to reveal the secret. But Caroline, the nurse, cannot leave the infant. Instead, she disappears into another city to raise the child herself. So begins this beautifully told story that unfolds over a quarter of a century in which these two families, ignorant of each other, are yet bound by David Henry's fateful decision that long-ago winter night.
A rich and deeply moving page-turner, The Memory Keeper's Daughter captures the way life takes unexpected turns and how the mysterious ties that hold a family together help us survive the heartache that occurs when long-buried secrets burst into the open. It is an astonishing tale of redemptive love.
Customer Reviews:
Stays with you long after the last page is read.......2007-10-05
The 'Memory Keeper's Daughter' is an emotionally haunting book that stays with you long after you've finished reading the last page.
Dr. David Henry has to deliver his own child when a snowstorm keeps his partner from safely making his way to their office. Expecting one child, Henry is surprised when a second child crowns. But as soon as the baby is delivered, the tell-tale signs of Down Syndrome are unmistakable. Remembering his own childhood as plagued by pain and suffering of an ill sister, he gives the child to the attending nurse and tells her to take the baby to an institution - one he has never seen firsthand but referred many patients to. Believing his action best for his family, when his wife awakens, he informs her they had twins but that their daughter was still born.
Single and lonely nurse Caroline, secretly in love with Dr. Henry, honors his request, bundles the child up and leaves for the drive to the institution. Once there she witnesses ill treatment of the patients and can't bring herself to leave the child. Instead, she impulsively takes the child, leaves town and raises the baby as her own.
Author Kim Edwards weaves a heartbreaking tale that moves back and forth between the two families: one which never recovers from the loss and the other that blossoms with this chance for love and family.
This moving story stayed with me partly due to the questions that inevitably arise in my mind while reading: How far would I go to protect my family? How much am I capable of forgiving? Could I love so unconditionally?
I highly recommend this book, especially for book clubs who will find much fodder here for discussion.
Disappointing ... to say the least ..........2007-10-04
I also bought this book because I had heard such great things about it. Like everyone else stated, the book started out strong but lost you half way through ...
I was really disappointed by this book - wasn't what I thought it would be.
Full of Ridiculous Drama!!!!!.......2007-10-02
This book sounded interesting enough and it was...at the beginning. We read it for our book club so was eager to jump on in. It wasn't one of my least favorites but you keep waiting and waiting for something to happen. Nothing does. Hence the title, you would think the majority of the book would be about Phoebe but it isn't. I got a little sick of Norah's self loathing to be quite honest.
Hopeful in the beginning; disappointed in the end.......2007-10-02
This sounded like a wonderfully intriguing book. While it was well written, it was poorly edited. There was much that could and should have been left out. The storyline with the Rosemary character served little purpose and the sudden death of one of the major characters was baffling. There were strong female characters and weaker male characters throughout the story...and this was so blatant that it took away from the story's believability. I enjoyed the first 100 pages or so and finished it because my book club was reading the book. Interestingly, the other members had the almost identical conclusion.
What was all the hype about?.......2007-09-30
This book began with a strong storyline. Then halfway through it became a drawn out read. I enjoyed chapters that were about Caroline and Phoebe, but those chapters were few and far between. The chapters about Norah and her family were terrible. They were unlikable characters and the book took on such a whiney tone. I could not believe all the people that said this was an interesting read. It was drawn out and generally dull. I would not recommend it.
Book Description
Over the past thirty-five years,
Between Parent and Child has helped millions of parents around the world strengthen their relationships with their children. Written by renowned psychologist Dr. Haim Ginott, this revolutionary book offered a straightforward prescription for empathetic yet disciplined child rearing and introduced new communication techniques that would change the way parents spoke with, and listened to, their children. Dr. Ginott’s innovative approach to parenting has influenced an entire generation of experts in the field, and now his methods can work for you, too.
In this revised edition, Dr. Alice Ginott, clinical psychologist and wife of the late Haim Ginott, and family relationship specialist Dr. H. Wallace Goddard usher this bestselling classic into the new century while retaining the book’s positive message and Haim Ginott’s warm, accessible voice. Based on the theory that parenting is a skill that can be learned, this indispensable handbook will show you how to:
• Discipline without threats, bribes, sarcasm, and punishment
• Criticize without demeaning, praise without judging, and express anger without hurting
• Acknowledge rather than argue with children’s feelings, perceptions, and opinions
• Respond so that children will learn to trust and develop self-confidence
Customer Reviews:
Who was Dr Spock???.......2007-09-18
I so agree with you. My childhood was not exactly a fairytail story. And I was scared that I wasn't going to be a good parent. But, I was going to change that! My husband and I brought 3 little boys into the big world in 3 years. They were going to be great, fantastic, successful human beings. Dr. Spock just wasn't cutting it in my world. What did he say again??? Then, I heard Dr Hiam Ginott on tv and knew I had to get his book. I watched him every time he was on tv. He was good. Then he died. That is too bad because even my children's parenting generation can learn great details from him. I had friends who commented that they liked my techniques. Mine? Not. Dr Hiam Ginott's.
My favourite parenting book.......2007-02-25
This book is a wonderful addition to any parents' library. I am a child psychiatrist who recommends it frequently to parents. It clearly discusses how important language is in our relationship with our children without being judgmental or preachy. It clearly outlines verbal patterns that many parents get into and helpful strategies to get out of those patterns. The premise is simple --- we need to listen more. However, if you are someone who recognizes this is easier said than done, I recommend reading this book. I get hundreds of books out of the library; there are few that I ultimately purchase. This was one of those few.
Some good info but light on correction.......2007-01-09
I thought there was some good information but I think it was light on correction. While I believe that we need to create a loving, safe, and encouraging environment for our children I also believe that there are times when children defy authority and need to be corrected. This book tries to combat the problem before it happens by the way we communicate with them. Although communication is key to the Parent/child relationship, children need to know that the Parent is in charge, that they must obey the first time and without argument. Don't get me wrong, children are a beautiful blessing from God and they need to be nurtured so carefully. But along with that nurturing comes this demand for obedience because I am their authority. The book was light on parental authority and presented parents merely as guides in a child's life rather than an authority to be obeyed and to protect them. I think our society could use a bit more respect for authority.
Best Parenting Book I've Read.......2006-08-18
The whole premise of the book is that love and common sense are not enough to raise most children well. Good parenting skills need to be *learned*. This book gives terrific examples of good and not so good parenting with each topic it covers. I've read at least a dozen parenting books (I have a very "highly spirited" 9 year old boy) and this one has made a big difference for me in my parenting. The emphasis on validating children's feelings somehow resonated better with me with this book than others, I think because the authors are particularly gifted in presenting the child's perspective. Using just a couple of the techniques in the book, I have been able to keep my son's emotional outbursts to a minimum -- and therefore my own, too. Better for me, and clearly better for him! I understand him better now.
Wish I Had This Sooner.......2006-03-18
My first visit with my daughter after I read this & I used one of the principles learned. Instead of her being mad at me for days because of my reaction to a situation, she was mad at me for 5 minutes.
Get this book, it will save you hours, days, years of grief and your child will be much the better for it.
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- Christo & Jeanne-Claude: Wrapped Reichstag, Berlin, 1971-1995 (Jumbo Series)
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- Costuming from the Hip
- Deep Blues: A Musical and Cultural History of the Mississippi Delta
- Differentiated Instructional Strategies: One Size Doesn't Fit All
- Don't Let's Go to the Dogs Tonight: An African Childhood
- Epidemiology Kept Simple: An Introduction to Classic and Modern Epidemiology, Second Edition
- Exile on Main St.: A Season in Hell with the Rolling Stones
- Film Directing: Shot by Shot: Visualizing from Concept to Screen (Michael Wiese Productions)
- Flocabulary: The Hip-Hop Approach to U.S. History (Flocabulary Study Guides)
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