Yes, I know. I'm WAY behind on this one! This book was a huge hit when it was published in 2007. Unfortunately for me, I judged the book by it's (rather bland) cover, and missed out on a truly wonderful reading experience.
Little did I know that this book is a lesson in living from a man who is dying. Little did I know that the man is dying from Lou Gehrig's disease, or ALS. You see, not only is this little book full of tremendous lessons that each of us should absorb and put into practice long before we near the end of our earthly existence, but I also lost a very sweet, very dear aunt to ALS many years ago.
Albom describes the symptoms of ALS so accurately. Unfortunately, it's a horrendous disease that strips it's "host" of even the simplest functions. It steals independence and strips away dignity. It is devastating to the psyche. Morrie, however, found a way to embrace his situation. As the disease progressed and his condition worsened, he embraced life and love and took pleasure in all that truly matters.
I place this little book (and it truly is little) on the must-read list for everyone. Sometimes we all need to take a deep breathe and be reminded of how blessed we are, and how easily we get caught up in the whirlwind of life and take so much for granted. Yes, it's a feel-good book, but it's one with genuine and universal lessons.
What better time than Thanksgiving to read a book like this?
Several months ago, having experienced a year full of ups and downs, I declared to a friend that I want my life to rich. Replace the adjective as you see fit - meaningful, significant, full, purposeful - the possibilities are endless. Regardless of adjective, it all boils down to living life in the moment. Every one of us needs a place to go to restore ourselves, to feel centered and grounded, to escape the pressures and negativity we face on a daily basis. This is what keeps propelling us toward new opportunities and risks. I suspect that conversation led to her picking up this book and passing it my way.
To quote the infamous Zig Ziglar, "People say motivation doesn't last. Neither does bathing; that's why it's recommended daily."
In Live Like Your Nail Color, Foley has linked nail color to motivation. Yes, nail color. She's taken a simple, 4-step process and related it to the process of refueling your inner "me tank." Her theory is to use the time you spend on your nails for self-exploration and refueling. Essentially she encourages you to choose a nail polish color that speaks to you. If the polish name is boring, rename it! Make your newly painted nails speak to you throughout the day. Let them serve as a flash motivation throughout your day of something that makes you feel good about yourself or something you want to do or change in your life.
This book isn't going to win a Pulitzer, but is a gentle reminder to stop and smell the roses along the way. The message Foley clearly communicates is that motivation is all around us; we can choose the most mundane of things to inspire a positive attitude and motivate us throughout our day. And, of course, that it's OKAY to spend an hour every other week on yourself.
Did I mention that the book comes with a complimentary nail polish? Interestingly, mine was named "I'm not really a supermodel." Gee ... whoddathunkit?
Yes, I know. I'm WAY behind on this one! This book was a huge hit when it was published in 2007. Unfortunately for me, I judged the book by it's (rather bland) cover, and missed out on a truly wonderful reading experience.
