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Eat, Pray, Love . . .
Written by: Elizabeth Gilbert
Reviewed by : Charyce
I read a book every single week, if I have time I read two. I make sure that at least for an hour each day I get lost in some whimsical romance, historical bio, or breathtaking mystery. I’ve read my share of mediocre novels which I’m sure were coined “the next great American novel” by at least one person, most likely the author. I’ve even dabbled with those inspirational “manuals”, the urban street lit, and often depressing current affairs books. So, when Oprah claims she’s found a new witty, insightful read, of course I have to see for myself. That is the main reason why I even picked up Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert, to see just what this book had to offer. I wondered if the New York Times Bestseller described as irresistible and humorously wise would even keep my attention, let alone cause some extraordinary personal breakthrough. You’ll be happy to know I was not disappointed.
The book follows Gilbert’s spiritual journey throughout Italy, India, and Indonesia. Searching desperately for fulfillment and the meaning of happiness, Gilbert impulsively files for divorce, packs her bags, and heads off to some of the most cultural countries in the world. From the beginning, it is clear that not only does she plan to redefine the “American Dream”, but she also needs to find who she truly is. What makes her happy? What is missing from her life? After all, what else would a bestselling author, well traveled yoga teacher, and beloved wife be doing? I mean, she was already living the life most people only dream of. She could literally have “success” stamped on her forehead and live comfortably for the rest of her life.
This made me even more anxious to find out exactly why this memoir was so brilliant. I fell in love with her adventures in defining pleasure, her struggles with meditation, and especially her endless ranting about her uncertainty with spirituality. Me, being at a particular stage in my life where I want a taste of everything life has to offer, I sometimes neglect my soul’s well-being. You would be surprised at how often many of us become consumed by material things and silly entertainment without focusing on what truly brings us joy. What makes your heart happy? Are you spiritually satisfied? I couldn’t even believe how little I understood about the intent of prayer and destiny, but there is one line in the book that forced me to re-evaluate my perfectionist attitude and the occasional need to throw myself a pity-party when things go wrong.
“I am assuming custodial responsibility for the maintenance of my own soul.” Reading that just baffled me. Wait, so you mean to tell me that I can only blame myself if I’m unhappy? So, depending on money, professional success, and other people’s opinions is out of the question? I realized that all this time I had not been living for the pursuit of my own happiness, but just striving towards what the world has defined as happiness. Think of it like this, if you had all the tangible things you desired and every foolish daydream came true, could you still be happy? Of course! The key is to figure out what brings you joy and go after it. Whatever it is, in order to discover it you have to accept the challenge of discovering yourself. It may not reveal itself in a day's time or even a year, but aren't you willing to wait? Maybe you already have it, and by all means if you do, hold on to it!
There are very few books that have made it to my personal list of favorites so for Eat, Pray, Love to even have made the cut, please know that reading this book is definitely worthwhile and I would not steer you wrong. Even if you don’t have some drastic epiphany I guarantee you will at least be entertained. I on the other hand have found out more about myself while reading this book than I thought I ever would and even more excited to continue on my own personal journey.
Happy Reading!
Eat, Pray, Love
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Purchase the book here.
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