It’s no secret I enjoy feedback from readers of this blog, but I get an incredible high when people write me about my books. Here’s a letter I recieved from Reena Crisanto-Orosa who purchased my book As Is Where Is on the net.
Allow me some chest thumping and beaming. It’s not often people go out of their way to write about a book which takes a lot of work to do.
Dear Jim,
Not only did I enjoy the book, but I couldn’t seem to get enough of it. When I saw that I was reaching the end of the book, I started to reread the other parts because I didn’t want to be finished with the book. When I finally gave in and finished reading it, I simply read it again. And in reading again, I also caught insights I did not catch the first time. My high school classmate from Maryknoll wants to borrow the book after me, but I think I will just buy her one since I want to hold on to my AS IS WHERE IS copy. I want to highlight parts that touched or moved me. I want to underline phrases that inspired me. I even memorized phrases that were relevant to me. I was even taking down notes while reading the book!
I have to confess I do not know how to meditate, and I wonder if you can recommend a cd or dvd to help me get started. There is too much clutter in my brains and I am curious as to how to clear my mind of the clutter and focus on nothing. I want to, as you say, surrender to the moment.
You’re write up about suffering (to be present to suffering is to diminish it) was very timely as I was going through a rough patch, and I still am. Your insights on this subject alleviated my pain and my suffering. Its as it I was meant to read the book.
I just read your blog and I quote: “Life is short. Wake up to it while you still have time and energy.” I so agree with you and everything you express in your blog are my sentiments exactly.
Reena