Reader Views

Personal Mythology: Using Ritual, Dreams, and Imagination to Discover Your Inner Story

As I began reading "Personal Mythology," I was struck by tremendous feelings of both hope and peace. I felt like I got my hands on a tool that will allow me to create the life that I have been wanting to live, but didn’t know how to go about getting there. I read a lot of self-help books and books about psychology. I also have a Master of Science degree in the Counseling field, yet I still didn’t feel like I had what I needed to really get me going. What makes me feel like I can finally achieve this, is that part of the "Personal Mythology" process involves delving back into my past so that I can make corrections on the false beliefs that I have had that have gotten me to where I am today. They served their needs at the time, but I am ready to move on.

In this book, myth "is the stuff of the evolving self that awakens consciousness and cultures according to the needs of time and place. It is the promise of becoming." Each of us lives by our own mythology.

There are five stages of this process. As we proceed through the stages we seek out the root causes of our issues and then create a plan for healing ourselves. It is empowering because we take responsibility for our healing process. We are also able to see how our own personal stories are linked to the greater Whole. Our mythologies affect our development. Much of this happens beneath our level of awareness. With this program, we are able to step in and direct the evolution of our own personal mythology.

"Personal Mythology" is set up to be a 12-week program that includes a support guide. There are three hour-long sessions to be done each week. This timeframe is flexible to fit one’s needs; however, this is the general plan. Each stage involves the participant journaling, using guided imagery and doing dream work. There are activities with which to write about. These are referred to as Personal Rituals. There is also a Support Guide to help give further clarity to the process and to assist with potential issues that might arise while doing this work. It is the third edition under this title. This version incorporates a tutorial on Energy Psychology. The authors have found that incorporating energy healing into this type of work allows the process to go faster and smoother. To do some of the guided imagery exercises, it is recommended that you make a recording of the steps so that you can relax and listen to what you need to do. There is also a 3 CD audio program available separately. I fully intend to purchase these CDs and use them to guide my path, but it is noted that it is not necessary as you can create your own.

I cannot wait to get started on this process. "Personal Mythology" makes so much sense and truly resonates within my soul as it incorporates both psychological principles along with spiritual ones. I look forward to where the work takes me. I saw so much of myself in some of the personal stories that were told by participants of this process. I believe that people who are interested in this type of deep spiritual and psychological work will truly benefit from reading this book. I think it would also be a great tool for someone to use who is in therapy. I can’t imagine anyone that won’t benefit from reading "Personal Mythology" by David Feinstein, PhD, Stanley Krippner, PhD.

Personal Mythology
David Feinstein, PhD, Stanley Krippner, PhD
Elite Books/Energy Psychology Press (2008)
ISBN 9781604150360
Reviewed by Paige Lovitt for Reader Views (9/08)

Listening with Heart 360: The New Paradigm for Women

"Programming is anything taking you away from your natural self and making you think you have to be something you are not." Ok, I admit, I had to re-read this sentence more than once to understand it. I really didn’t get it. "Life is too short for unnecessary sadness." No misunderstanding there – I get it – man, do I get it.

"’Listening with Heart’ is all about building bridges over troubled spots after the red flags are flying." It’s about thinking positive, not letting fear rule your life, and being happy with yourself. "Thinking more positive can be done from anywhere." ‘Listening with Heart 360" will help search deep inside yourself and assist you in becoming more aware of your self-perception. Step out of the mold and take a risk.

Many of the issues females face in the world today are dealt with inside the pages of this book. Troubled by a poor body image, you are introduced to negative and positive pounds. Write down what you eat, if you can’t cut anything out, cut back. Change your habit – you can do it.

Weathering the storm of adolescence is always a challenge. Dealing with daughters experiencing puberty and having a positive response to your child is a definite challenge. You will be led to better prepare her for adulthood in ways that will help her become a strong, independent women.

Marriage and happily ever after, yes it can be realistic. Getting past the fantasy and living in the real world. You are expected to behave in one manner, and have many responsibilities. You are shown how you can still be a wife but also be a happy individual. If your marriage is not happily ever after, you are shown how this experience can have a positive outcome and make you stronger. Divorce is compared to childbirth; until you experience it, you have no idea.

"Listening with Heart 360" is designed to be read in conjunction with using their website. It will give you useful tools to help you analyze different life situations. As a parent of four daughters, I have read chapter 5: The Storm and chapter 6: The Hormonian Age several times and would highly recommend the book solely based on these chapters alone.

"Listening with Heart 360" by Elizabeth Diane and Andrew Marshall will activate your consciousness and lead you to think things you may never have considered. Opening your eyes about things you would never have thought will have a very positive impact on your self-perception. Regardless of the phrasing, you are given information to help you lead a more positive life.

Listening with Heart 360
Elizabeth Diane & Andrew Marshall
Robert D. Reed (2008)
ISBN 9781931741958
Reviewed by Danelle Drake for Reader Views (9/08)

Will it Hurt? A Parent’s Practical Guide to Children’s Surgery

"Will it Hurt? A Parent’s Practical Guide to Children’s Surgery" should be required reading for every parent/caregiver. Tucked into the diaper bag as an infant leaves the hospital, this guide would definitely ease the stress a parent feels when given the news that their child needs surgery of any kind. Beginning with the initial news that your child is in need of surgery, Dr. Ketch walks you thru every step of the process. Equipped with the information you have learned, you will be a valuable member of the team caring for your child.

Summarizing many of the most common types of surgery a child of any age faces, you are given information you need to make valuable decisions. Information on how to keep yourself, as well as your child, calm when entering the medical environment will better prepare the entire family. Tips on preparation if your child will be given anesthesia or have blood tests taken, are very informative and will help you feel confident in the procedures. Guides at the close of the information are available for tear out and will be of great benefit when preparing your child’s medical records.

From a doctor’s prospective, Dr. Ketch brings things to light that are very beneficial to the parent. Regardless of the fact that your child is in need of surgery, every parent/caregiver should add this book to their required reading list. When faced with the news, other priorities may interfere, and you will lack very vital information you would have learned between the pages of "Will it Hurt? A Parent’s Practical Guide to Children’s Surgery."

Will it Hurt? A Parent’s Practical Guide to Children’s Surgery
Armen Ketchedjian, MD (Dr. Ketch)
Warren Enterprises, LLC (2008)
ISBN 9780981537306
Reviewed by Danelle Drake for Reader views (9/08)
http://www.readerviews.com/index.html

The EFT Manual (EFT: Emotional Freedom Techniques)

As a former practitioner of EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques) and avid proponent of the system, I commend Gary Craig in providing this concise, small-sized manual that is chock-full of information, not only for someone wanting to learn about EFT but for practitioners to expand their knowledge. Understanding and knowing about the body’s energy system is the key to successful results from EFT.

Craig insists on learning the traditional way of applying EFT and mastering the concept first. This is in section I of the manual. In section II he does give shortcuts, however, I agree with him on mastering the concepts first. The system will take understanding and practice. Once mastered, Craig point outs you would be able to help clients attain freedom in their lives; freedom from negative emotions and self-doubt. He also indicates we can manifest results in goals, e.g., creating greater income. The benefits are abundant on all levels – emotional, physical, and spiritual.

"The EFT Manual" provides steps (Craig calls this the basic recipe): 1. the setup, 2. the sequence, 3. the 9 gamut procedure, 4. the sequence (yes, again). He also supplies tips, explanations, and case studies. This is truly a "manual" for a healing process.

Gary Craig, through "The EFT Manual," has given us an effortless way to have breakthrough healing results. The power of the simple techniques is phenomenal and may be mastered by anyone, experienced or not experienced in alternative healing methods. This is a must-have book for practitioners, ministers, coaches, and laypersons.

The EFT Manual (EFT: Emotional Freedom Techniques)
Gary Craig
Energy Psychology Press (2008)
ISBN 9781604150308
Reviewed by Irene Watson for Reader Views (9/08)

Drowning in a Christian World

There are difficult books to read, and then there are hard books. "Drowning in a Christian World" by Ray Baily is a hard book to read. It’s not hard because it’s deep, or technical, but because the story is intensely heart-wrenching! In this 223 page, large-print paperback, Ray pours out the brutal story of his battered life. This is the account of his years of abuse at the hands of a malicious father and cruel mother.

Baily rehearses the blow-by-blow description of his early years in what was supposed to be a Christian home. From his earliest years Baily was tormented, battered, reviled, and made to go hungry. Often times this was brought on him by his Bible-reading, Bible-quoting, Bible-preaching dad. The fierce amount of maltreatment he received will bring shudders and shock to the reader. And yet there is no pretentious glamorization of the retelling of the grief, just a simple, "Here’s what happened, here’s what I felt, and here’s what I’m still suffering with" account.

"Drowning in a Christian World" is an important book. On the one hand, it is important for Ray Baily. It is the means by which is able to bring out the hurt, anger, fear and resentment, get it out into the open, and allow the light and air to start the healing process. But it is important in another way. The reader will hear the inside scoop of what goes on behind closed doors, and will become better suited to see the signs of child abuse. How can one child go to church or school for years, showing up with a broken nose, then a blackened eye, later a burned hand, along with other physical distresses, and someone not take notice? Even though the mom and dad put on a clean-cut, happy-family front, yet the unrelenting tale-tell signs are ever present. Having seen several child neglect and child abuse situations myself, it’s all too familiar, and all too horrendous to ignore.

The reader will find, as I did, that this is not a book to read right before going to bed. The stark, traumatic images will stir in your heart, and invade the peace of your dreams. Because this story is so important, and needs to hit the widest audience possible, it’s rather unfortunate that the editors allowed poor grammar to show up on a number of pages. It becomes a distraction that annoys and deflects the gravity of this valuable story.

"Drowning in a Christian World" by Ray Baily is an important book, and it is a hard book. Ray, as you asked at the end of the book, I’m praying!

Drowning in a Christian World
Ray Baily
Outskirts Press (2008)
ISBN 9781432707606
Reviewed by Dr. Michael Philliber for Reader Views (9/08)

Navigating for Success: Passion, Goals, & Action

Moss A. Jackson, PhD, is a clinical and organizational psychologist and a business consultant. He has spent over twenty-five years studying what makes people successful and what holds them back. He shares these insights with us in "Navigating for Success." The principles are mainly geared towards helping others achieve professional success; however, they will definitely work with setting and achieving personal goals as well.

There are three main roles that people can choose to take in life: victim, survivor and navigator. By examining our own core beliefs and answering the Compass Point Questions that are given at the end of the chapter, we can see where we are at now, and decide what role we want to work towards. Navigators are in charge of their lives. They take responsibility for their success and learn from their mistakes. I discovered for myself that I have been in the survivor role for quite some time. I have hints of being a Navigator; however, I am not there yet. I definitely need this book!

"Navigating for Success" is divided into seven parts. In each part, Dr. Jackson includes examples taken from case studies and personal experiences. Each chapter ends with Compass Point questions and worksheets. "Part II: Mapping Your Course" includes the "Navigating for Success Map" and explains the four steps that it is comprised of. "Part VII: Setting Sail" has the comprehensive action plan for success.

The whole book is well organized and everything is explained in a manner that is not only easy to understand but highly motivating and empowering. I intend to go back and do the exercises slowly so that I have more time to process what I need to do to chart my course. However, I immediately gained knowledge and advice that I intend to put to use immediately in dealing with conflict resolution at work. I cannot wait to apply these principles and see the results when dealing with some difficult people at work. I highly recommend "Navigating for Success" by Moss A. Jackson, PhD. I think that it will change your life.

Navigating for Success: Passion, Goals, & Action
Moss A. Jackson, PhD
Corporate Initiatives (2007)
ISBN 9780615180458
Reviewed by Paige Lovitt for Reader Views (9/08)

Say Goodbye to your PDI (Personality Disordered Individuals): Recognize People Who Make You Miserable and Eliminate Them from Your Life for Good!

Ever wish you could erase certain people from your daily life? Does the thought of never seeing a certain relative again bring feelings of peace and serenity to mind? Aside from relocating or getting adopted into another family, consider taking some advice from Dr. Stan Kapuchinski’s fascinating book, "Say Goodbye to your PDI (Personality Disordered Individual): Recognize People Who Make You Miserable and Eliminate Them from Your Life for Good!" What you read will stun you.

"Say Goodbye to your PDI" is an informational self-help book, meant to supply details on specific personality disorders so the reader can analyze their own reactions to these individuals. Kapuchinski highlights five disorders: Passive-Aggressive, Histrionic, Antisocial, Borderline, and Narcissistic with lists of self-descriptions and viewpoints from each one. He hopes to not only put the reader in each of these personality’s shoes, but get them to recognize how they feel when interacting with one – whether swept away or at your wit’s end. Kapuchinski stresses the importance of emotional intelligence when reacting to a PDI. Not only should you know *why* you feel or think a certain way but *how* that reaction is taken by the PDI.

"Say Goodbye to your PDI" is sensibly organized, intelligently written, and appropriate to many – if not most or all – types of people. It can assist professionals in dealing with a problematic patient or client, employees in dealing with one another, or families dealing with a difficult relative. Although Kapuchinski utilizes many absolutes in his descriptions, such as "…this person will never change…that person is always looking to control you…" I think it fits well in the overall message the book is conveying. Yes, absolute-type wording is normally frowned upon as it allows for no exceptions. However, Kapuchinski’s intent is not to change the PDI. It’s to change the reader’s way of responding and in doing so, needs words like ‘never’ and ‘always’ to drive his message home…and he does so with a passionate sense of total and unconditional certainty.

Most people have ‘that one person’ in their lives that gives them headaches and heartburn. Why continue to endure them when Dr. Stan Kapuchinski prescribes "stop your misery"? "Say Goodbye to your PDI" gives you Kapuchinski’s 25+ years of experience in an easy-to-swallow format that’s safe for all ages. Prognosis – a happier and mentally healthier you!

Say Goodbye to your PDI (Personality Disordered Individuals)
Stan Kapuchinski
Health Communications Inc. (2007)
ISBN 9780757306150
Reviewed by Vicki Landes for Reader Views (8/08)

Pure Soapbox

Author Kimberlie Dykeman is a motivator, and "Pure Soapbox" is her platform. In her book, Dykeman uses some of her favorite inspirational quotes as a springboard for a broader discussion. She examines the true meaning of these quotes, including those attributed to Albert Einstein, Abraham Lincoln, Robert Frost and the Nike Corporation, and encourages the reader to delve deeper into each one’s significance.

Examine the quote "Just Do It." It seems simple and broad at first, but Dykeman asks leading and provocative questions to persuade you to look for the deeper meaning of these three words, and she gives a not-so-gentle nudge to help you find the value of their meaning, and to discover how you can make them resonate in your own life.

There is an exponential wealth of knowledge to be gained reading "Pure Soapbox" and appreciating the words of wisdom it has to offer. This book can be used as a daily devotional without the religious aspects usually associated with such works. The importance of its words is best served one day and one quote at a time. Studying the book in this manner will give readers the best opportunity to understand, comprehend, and figure out how they can use the quotes and Dykeman’s motivational words in their every day life. If you are looking to be inspired, or searching for a way to inspire others, I encourage you to pick up a copy of "Pure Soapbox." You will not be disappointed.

Pure Soapbox
Kimberlie Dykeman
Wiggy Press (2008)
ISBN 9780974070339
Reviewed by Nikki Pringle for Reader Views (8/08)

Consider it Done! Ten Prescriptions for Finishing What You Start

This quick read might just give you the kick start most of us need to turn things around. People who are ready to make a change don’t have a lot of time or the patience to read through lengthy chapters to find a bit of wisdom that might be useful.

The author easily sums up concepts while inspiring readers to take action on the variety of Behavior Change Projects that we are interested in. He discusses two types. Linear projects consist of tasks such as finishing a degree, learning a new skill and others that include a beginning, middle and end. Habit change projects are different in that the goal is to develop a new model of behavior. These can include handling paperwork timely, exercising regularly or managing your health.

I was happy to accomplish my first goal of completing the book in a weekend. And I came away from it inspired to meet my other goals. Like many others, I go through periods of procrastination and incomplete projects, frustrated by my failures. But Hibbs provides a process and a plan to follow. He comes with a great amount of experience as a teacher, psychologist and a personal coach. He knows from experience that part of being successful is committing in writing what your plan is and then following up on it.

As far as scheduling goes, he uses the example of filling a bucket with rocks, sand and pebbles to illustrate our priorities. I’ve actually used this in a training class and I enjoyed being reminded of its truth. We all know we need to do what’s important, but we tend to get sucked into the priorities of others. At least I do!

Next he discusses motivation. Reminding ourselves of the benefits of completing a project is important and more meaningful than just saying we have to do it. Sure my closet was an overwhelming mess and anyone would say it needed to be cleaned out. But once I realized the benefit of having access to clothes I’d forgotten I had, I got busy and made it happen.

Hibbs addresses what to do when you hit a brick wall or your ‘gremlin,’ as he calls it, starts talking you out of something. There are several strategies he suggests to incorporate from positive self-talk to deep breathing and others. It is important to address the rationale of why we don’t get these things done in the first place. There is a good reason our garages pile up or the bills go unpaid or thank-you cards never get written. This book helps us addresses why our gremlin appears and what to do about it.

Consider it Done! Ten Prescriptions for Finishing What You Start
Stanley H. Hibbs, PhD
Impact Publications (2008)
ISBN 9781897326510
Reviewed by Tammy Petty Conrad for Reader Views (7/08)

Letters to My Granddaughters: Insights and Inspiration for a Life Journey

Ms. Trapp has done something we all want to do, not only with our children, but our grandchildren as well. She has authored a wonderful book of wisdom and guidance to her granddaughters on all of our life questions and thoughts.

Some of the areas she has included in her book are love, forgiveness, setting goals and emotions that get in our way. Each lesson comes from over 300 seminars that the author has given, along with feedback from the audience. Her gentle style, humor and examples are easy-to-read and understand. She also provides questions at the end of each lesson for further thought and action.

The reader not only found “Letters to My Granddaughters: Insights and Inspiration for a Life Journey” by Linda Abbott Trapp helpful for herself, but it gave her ideas on addressing complicated issues with her own grown children. Everyone who reads this inspiring book can relate to the lessons.

Letters to My Granddaughters
Linda Abbott Trapp
Abbott Publications (2007)
ISBN 9781425739416
Reviewed by Carol Hoyer for Reader Views (7/08)