Anne
Lamott offers glimmers of hope for many of life’s ongoing challenges.Almost
Everything: Notes on Hope by Anne Lamott is an exceptionally delightful experience, whether reading or listening; I chose the latter. Through her sharp humor and insightful references, she engages readers while offering motivation. She discusses various topics like dieting, sobriety, friendship, and family, showcasing a perspective filled with optimism. Her views on life are far from unrealistic; they resonate with honesty and depth.
I might be biased, as she touches upon topics I’ve also explored, albeit not with the same charm and eloquence as she does.
Here are a few examples to help you decide whether to invest in the book — or simply borrow it from your local library:
1. Chapter 4 delivers a powerful message in just one sentence:
Almost everything will function again if you just unplug it for a short while, including yourself.
You can see my thoughts on self-care that involve disconnecting here.
2. In Chapter 5, titled “Don’t Let Them Get You to Hate Them,” she shares wisdom from her pastor:
When my pastor refers to the most challenging people in her life as her grace-builders, I feel like jumping out of a window. I’m not there yet, but I comprehend her perspective.
3. In Chapter 6, which focuses on writing, she eloquently states:
If people intended for you to write kindly about them, they should’ve acted more admirably.
And thus, Karma plays out.
4. Chapter 11 revolves around food and dieting. I particularly enjoyed her story about telling her therapist she was starting a diet, to which the therapist cheerfully replied:
Oh, that’s wonderful, dear—how much weight are you hoping to gain?
Lamott reflects:
No one speaks to me like that. I eventually cut her loose. Well, perhaps not immediately—it took ten years.
You’ve got to appreciate someone who can handle the unvarnished truths from her therapist.
Wishing you a prosperous New Year!