Jon Gordon’s article this week, One Person at a Time([1] www.jongordon.com/newsletter.html), tells the story of a conversation he had with a homeless woman which resulted in his deciding to buy her a book. He took her to a bookstore and bought her his book, The Energy Addict. But he realized that she was looking for help to forgive herself for her past mistakes and to set herself on a path to a meaningful life. So he set out to discover the perfect book for her. Eventually two other people joined in the discussion about the best book for her to read. Jon’s story of three people trying to help a homeless person get her life in order was quite moving. It made me think about how I help others. It also made me curious about what single book I would recommend. My mind is full of ideas. What book would I buy her? Then I thought, what book would you buy her? This could start an interesting discussion. I’d love to share everyone’s answer. Please tell me what book you would recommend. Yes, you must narrow it down to one book. Which book would you give to a person who wants to leave their past mistakes behind and create a new life? This doesn’t have to be a homeless person. It could be a colleague or a neighbor or your spouse—anyone who wants a fresh start. What’s the most influential book you know? 

Please email your choice and why you think your book would be helpful. Pardon me while I go look at my bookshelves and make my selection…. OK, got it. I said only one book, didn’t I? Bummer, I want to suggest two. If I can only choose one, I choose Finding Your Own North Star: claiming the life you were meant to live by Martha Beck. Martha writes a monthly column for O: The Oprah Magazine. I love her writing and her message. This book is a treasure map to a joyful life.  It’s the book I wish I had written and a book I refer to often. 

Now it’s your turn.  © 2006, Jacqueline Hale