Reviews
2.25/5
I return to this one often.
A good explanation of some foundational Buddhist beliefs, written with Chodron's typical humility and wisdom. The title is a little off-putting, as it is not really a recovery kind of book, but is for all times, not just difficult ones.
Pema Chödrön’s words are truly healing, she perfectly articulated all that I felt and all that I needed to hear. I listened to this on audible and liked it so much that I had to get myself the physical copy. It’s one of those books I know I’ll continuously return to when in need of a reminder and I highly recommend this to anyone dealing with grief.
A little deeper than other books. I really appreciate the flavor of Tibetan Buddhism
This was chosen for my book club. Couldn’t finish it.
In my "perfect little world", everyone would own this book...and, read it annually. Kinda silly of me to say this being that the whole point of the book is that, not only is life not perfect, it's not even safe and secure. I found this book shortly after the love of my life made a (necessary) choice to let me go. I held myself together just long enough to walk through my front door...28 hours after leaving Europe. A couple of days later, I was looking for a quote to hold on to. I ended up at Goodreads...then was gently led to "When Things Fall Apart". Naturally, the title is what caught my attention. I ordered it the moment I finished reading the summary...and, began reading as soon as I ripped the box open. Wow. This book was not only just what I needed at that exact moment in my life, but it's going to be one of those gifts that keeps on giving. It gave me a totally different perspective on my present devastation...and, the bigger picture of my life. In a nutshell, the only difference between a "regular" person who happens to be a spiritual leader/guru and a regular "regular" person is that the former views fear and loss as an opportunity for growth instead of something to run from. POWERFUL. OK...it's going to take a lifetime of effort to change some deeply engrained habits (some genetic???), but it's a huge start. I've already marked my calendar to remind me when 365 days have passed...we'll see if I haven't already picked it up again at that point. I only wish the title did not lend one to believe that this is only a book for "difficult times". I wish I would have read this as a young adult and gotten a head start on falling into my fears at a much earlier age...not just the fears that arise in difficult times, but those little ones that impact us every day and hold us back from taking necessary risks and living life to the fullest. Time to end this review and try some meditation! P.S. I gave the love of my life this book...and, my "difficult time" ended shortly thereafter. Now when fears about the relationship threaten to overtake me, I meet them head on.
