It is truly rare to find a book so full of Truth. This brilliant little treasure will help struggling mothers to find peace and joy in their own journey through motherhood. I can not stress enough how perfect this book is! The author, Karen Maezen Miller, shares her life experiences, from the simple to the heart wrenching, and then is able to use those experiences to present, more than just Buddhist truth, but what I consider to be universal truths. I finished feeling enlightened and inspired. Miller provides mothers with not just encouragement, but encourages a perspective transformation, which will help restrain the suffering and guide you towards joy. Every mother should have this book.
One can almost feel they are listening to Karen Maezen Miller chat with them across the coffee table, so intimately does she confide. It is easy to see her in a chenille bathrobe and smudgy mascara as she pulls you closer into her world. I am glad to find a Western Zen practicioner, a priest yet, who is as solid and real and as loving as my mom. Someone who is teaching me but is so much a student too. As an active and doting aunt to 9 children ages 8 months to 35 years, I have gained insight on my sisters' lives, shed guilt about taking their kids to Mickie D's, and can understand the grace of an apology to a child. I was captivated by the honesty and the wonderful writing. I have given this book to several friends, it makes a perfect gift.