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In the Spirit: The Inspirational Writings

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Twenty-two lifelines to personal growth and fulfillment from the editor in chief of Essence magazine. When Susan L. Taylor rose to editor in chief of Essence magazine more than a decade ago, she began writing an editorial column in which she shares her thoughts and feelings about how developing one's inner awareness ensures the wisdom and clarity needed to create a deeply satisfying and fulfilling life. The monthly column called "In the Spirit" is one of the most popular in the magazine. Susan L. Taylor connects with the reader in a personal and meaningful way, in a voice that is sisterly, informed, and motivating. She challenges her readers to transcend their fears, to face inevitable challenges in their lives courageously, and to use change as an opportunity to grow. "We limit ourselves because change may well mean dealing with the disapproval of the very people we rely on for support. Often words of inspiration and motivation, but she also suggests specific methods for working through problems and improving our emotional and spiritual health. "We are not powerless spectators of life. We are co-creators with God, and all around is are the gifts, the clay, that we can use to shape our world," she says. Susan L. Taylor writes passionately about what she has seen and learned in the course of her travels throughout the United States, Caribbean, and Africa. Her essays have helped many to balance the demanding world of work and business with the personal world of family and friendship. She shares bits of her own life--her loves, her trails, and triumphs--and the lessons she's learned. Many of Susan L. Taylor's readers already collect her editorials and find in them a source of encouragement, self-affirmation, empowerment, and peace of mind. Now they can have new essays and a few previously published favorites elegantly bound in a gift-sized paperback edition to keep for themselves or to give as a gift of love to those who are special to them.

Paperback

First published October 20, 1994

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About the author

Susan L. Taylor

24 books14 followers

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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
Profile Image for Lakienya.
5 reviews1 follower
December 7, 2009
This book is awesome. It confirms most of what we already know about life but it's a relief to hear those thoughts put more clearly.

Life is indeed what we make it...
528 reviews2 followers
May 19, 2020
One book that deserves more than one reading. This was at least the third time for me. Faith and common sense ideas that renew your spirit.
The book can be read in sections as your reflection and/or healing needs arise.

As one reviewer wrote “soul food”
Profile Image for Jennifer.
82 reviews
September 23, 2008
She's a WISE LADY!!!!! and is true to the philosophy "each one,teach one"...Great book to pick up often to remind you to remain "In the spirit"
Profile Image for Orishaz.
50 reviews24 followers
August 17, 2010
Awesome inspirational writings from the phenomenal lady who used to be the Editor-in-Chief of Essence Magazine.
Profile Image for Misshaq.
26 reviews9 followers
December 3, 2010
I go to this book often for inspiration. I read it years ago. It is a great book to own for the soul food we all need.
Profile Image for Tonia.
1 review45 followers
September 9, 2016
I purchased this book in my early twenties when it was first published, and I loved it. I gained so much wisdom from reading this book. It definitely is inspirational and oh boy it had so many life lessons that I need for a woman in her twenties, who was struggling with many things at that time. To this day I re-read this book often. Truthfully, this is the best book I've ever read, other than the bible.

I definitely recommend it to ALL.
Profile Image for Ashley.
32 reviews
June 14, 2015
I enjoyed this book! It reminded me of things I already knew and gave me a new perspective in other areas. I especially enjoyed that it was broken down into small sections--I read one each night before bed. I'll definitely be reading it again and recommending it to friends and family.
1 review
May 13, 2008
This book has reaffirmed the importance of staying in faith, the power of God and why I am so proud to be a woman of color!!!
Profile Image for Lenar Mitchell.
10 reviews
June 9, 2012
A very moving, realism, powerful book that can touch your heart! And for me, the second most holiest book you'll ever like reading, after the Holy Bible!
Profile Image for Gail.
441 reviews25 followers
November 22, 2014
Re-read this book, this is a book from a lady who talk to me in her written words.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews

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