I've Been Thinking . . .: Reflections, Prayers, and Meditations for a Meaningful Life

This book is great. You can pick it up and read a section or two and then come back to it another time.

I really needed a book like this after too many weeks of terrible news on the internet, tv and at work (too many talented colleagues laid off from a local, big IT company in the last month). The last month, on top of a lot of grief-issues my husband and I have been dealing with for so many years, has helped me take refuge in a terrible "mental funk." My inner-voice keeps telling me, "Don't give up! Things will get better. Hang on!" While I could relate to nearly all of the chapters/meditations in this book, I know I have family/friends I'd like to share this book with who will very likely be offended in some of the thoughts shared because they view their world through a very different lens than Maria and my immediate family do. I have a lot of relatives and old friends who love the ability to engage in a virtual religious and/or political fight-fest, with so much anger and vitriol directed towards issues and posts that they do not take the time to research and respond to in a thoughtful and caring manner. Also, while my heart aches for the loss that Maria has experienced via the death of so many lovely, supportive elders in her life, I was happy to know that she had those people in her life--because so many people have never experienced the family devotion she did. If I had the chance to connect with her when she's getting teary about the loss of one of her children moving to another state, and too far away for her liking, I would ask her to remember that all four of her children are alive and pursuing their dreams while too many loving mothers and fathers are trying to live day-to-day--trying to accept the reality that they'll never have the joy of seeing their child(ren) during holidays or special visits because they are no longer alive, for whatever important reason. The reason I'm drawn to Maria's writing and her special segments on the media is because I truly believe she is very caring and open to other people's opinions. I wish I knew someone like her who could help me tell my family's story! In spite of the few chapters that made me think, "She's been hurt, but doesn't understand 'rock bottom' because she hasn't lived it, yet, and hope she never does"...I would truly recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a way to take control of the optimism and action we all are responsible for cultivating in our personal life.

Very real reading

Highly recommend. Also, purchase the journal book to go with this book.

I love this book. The title is perfect because Maria tells what she's been thinking and it is so relatable to what many other women are thinking, too. I'm currently doing a bible study to answer the big questions also found in this book - who am I? Why am I here? What is my purpose? At a time when the world is creating havoc with actions, words, misguided thinking, thoughts being directed by those with selfish agendas, and friends/family acting in aggressive ways, it is getting harder to have peace. When I am affected by outside influences and those in my circles are also impacted by negative influences, it is no wonder we are troubled and find ourselves in conflict. To counter the negative influences, it is easy to become busy trying to help right the wrongs. In doing that, we sometimes become aggressive ourselves and things can get all tangled. This book has guided my thinking and allowed me to go to quiet more than noise. Maria was able to empathize with us as humans trying to be ourselves in tandem with our faith and yet, recognizing our own shortcomings. I have read the entire book and marked sections that spoke to me with a date. I will read again and again to stay on the path God intended me to walk to fulfill His purposes through me. I will stumble, but hopefully revisiting this book and re-evaluating my situation will help me stay on course. Thank you, Maria for this gift to me and so many others.

I previously posted a "fair" review due to disappointment in what I expected. This seller was very attentive and gracious in successfully resolving my concerns within 24 hours. It should be noted that my second purchase from them on the same date was successful and exactly as represented. I would definitely use them again.

A wonderful perspective of how to be as a person. The prayers asking God for guidance helps the mind. I will purchase hard copies to give as gifts.

An excellent gift for a sister or a close friend. It is helpful, like a daily devotional.I highly recommend Thumbs up👍.

I saw a clip with Maria with Oprah Winfrey and she said something about being in transition and this resonated with me - so I bought the book. Reading now for the second time

A simple approach to the realistic experiences we all go through on life’s journey. The thoughts and prayers are non denominational, and thought provoking too. I loved it.

I devoured this book in a matter of hours. Down to earth and wise with applicable advice.

Beautiful reflection on everyday thoughts. Felt like things I would think.

For me this’s probably the best small book to give as a gift. Very easily to read with strong and beautiful messages that fits onto everybody life’s.