Do you listen to any podcasts? If so, is Oprah’s SuperSoul Conversations on your playlist? I love the one featuring Maria Shriver. I walked an extra 20 minutes, just so I could listen to both parts of the podcast. When I got home, I ordered Maria’s book “I’ve Been Thinking…” and patiently waited for it to arrive.
I enjoy listening to podcasts during my daily walks. The genres are always different and usually dictated by my ‘mood of the day’. On this particular weekend I was craving Oprah’s gift for getting deep in conversation with her guests. Her unique talent for reaching authenticity with every person she interviews. With Maria Shriver, it seemed a bit different. These two women are friends. And in this podcast Oprah and Maria allowed the listener to join two kindred spirits sharing thoughts of love, forgiveness, and the quest for a meaningful life. The conversation left me craving more. I hoped Maria’s book would feel like a continuation of those reflected thoughts.
Well….let me say…I finished the book in 2 days. And it did not disappoint.
Maria Shrivers’ book is a compilation of quotes, prayers and reflections all in one. It’s an easy read since each section is only 3-5 pages long. I will say that I think it’s an attribute to her gift as a writer that she can pack so much power in just a few pages. If you are like me, you won’t read this just once. You will read it all the way through. Then you will grab your journal and read it again. This time you will pause every few sections so you can journal your personal thoughts and goals for a more meaningful life.
Five things I loved about I’ve Been Thinking…
- Her sixty life lessons for her sixtieth birthday. From whimsical to heartfelt, each one is true!
- The Power of Pause. I love how she encourages us to take press the pause button. Pause instead of react. Pause before passing judgement. And Pause before you hit that Send button.
- Listen. With an open mind and an open heart. You might learn something…perhaps that you have more things in common than you thought.
- Expressing gratitude is incredibly powerful. Let someone close to you know they matter. Let them know you notice and appreciate everything they do.
- The Power of Reevaluating. Maria’s closing chapter is full of wisdom and powerful nuggets of inspiration about work, health, success and love.
I recommend this to anyone who is looking to have more peace, joy and purpose in their life. For anyone who is hoping for days that are full of “yippee moments”. (if you listen to the podcast or read the book…you will know what I mean)
Best…
Donna
