So, You're Not Mother Teresa
by Terri Cannavo
Published by Brown Books Publishing Group
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Reviewed by Jan Warren
Subtitle: Acts of Kindness and Gifts from the Heart
Author Terri Cannavo wrote this "what-to-do" book in hopes of helping people find simple but productive ways to show others you care during difficult life events.
Chances are you have or will in the future be in a position to help or be helped through a life crisis. It could be anything from losing a job to losing a loved one, but no one should have to go through that alone. Now if you only knew what to say or do---right? Here's the little handbook that could help you to minister aid and comfort to another.
The 10 chapters are filled with encouragement to step out of your comfort zone and help your friend or neighbor. Some examples are as simple as making a phone call or sending a card saying, "I'm thinking of you," to the practical, by providing a meal for a shut in or mowing the lawn of someone in the hospital.
Chapter 7 Do Something! This chapter has specific ideas for 27 specific situations. From "Abuse" to "Widow/Widower." Also included are suggestions on what to say--and in some circumstances, what never to say when trying to comfort someone.
There's even a chapter on The Heart of Listening, something we all need to do more of.
My favorite quote from the book: "The value of giving and receiving--they are delicately balanced partners in the cycles of life. They are intertwined to teach us all the dignity of serving with compassion and receiving with grace. Both have equal merit. Both have equal value. There cannot be one without the other, or there is no gift."
Armchair Interviews says: For those of us who are not Mother Teresa with her gift of service, this book could help you to help others and thereby making your world better one act of kindness at a time.