I have had a PC since 1992. Text based wisdom used to get e-mailed. Talk shows and other heart-warming advice make kernels of wisdom well-known to us. Uplifting gift books of spiritual wisdom have become sweet and inspiring but not for being new to us. What is nice, is to nod and be reminded of positive messages that are well engrained in us.
My wonderful Mother loved warm words and encouraging thoughts and many a time, gave me Mother to Daughter plaques, cards, letters, and other inspiring books and stationery. I was taught to date every photograph, card, and message and am grateful my Mom did, for I can see that this little inspirational hardcover was given to me by my parents for Christmas of 2006. “If Only I Knew: Gentle Reminders To Help You Treasure The People In Your Life” was published by in 2002.
I give Lance Wubbels four stars. I do not view God through a religious lens but most of his mantras can be absorbed in direct spiritual faith. A lot of them take a depressing tack, as if written by someone regretting not appreciating life and loved-ones better. For we who cherish, embrace, and express gratitude for everyone and everything dear in our lives; these are lovely words about kindness, respect, appreciation, and mutual love to read aloud.
I likely read this loving present after receiving it, of pretty backgrounds and profound thoughts we remember for life. I kept it near me in my night table. Now, I am savouring and enjoying everything my parents gave me and making a record of books from my Mom, by writing reviews of them. I have missed my Mom very much for two years and am taking full pleasure in every dedication and note she wrote for me.
What a powerful little book! Favorite quotes: "If Only I Knew the depths of wisdom and insight possessed by people around me, I would have spoken less and listened more."
"If Only I Knew that everything depends upon what you believe, and that ignorance is no excuse, I would have been more vigilant to put truth into my heart."
"If Only I Knew I was about to lose your smile, I would thank you for all the joy you've brought to my life."
"If Only I Kniew that wonders surround all we do...everywhere...all the time, I would have searched my little corner of the world and been continuously amazed."
"If Only I Knew this was the last time...the very last time...I would see you, I would take the time to treasure everything about you."
I want to give a copy of this bool to everyone in my family. I love you all so much. Everyone should read this book...I will have it for the rest of my life and pick it up to read it again from time to time..same way I feel about "If Life is a Game, These are the Rules." Just the messages in these books are things we know but maybe need reminded of to put things back into perspective. Sometimes it isn't as clear until you read it aloud. I also read some new things in both of these books. All I can say..Go get it and keep it by your night stand. Money worth spending.
Do not open this book unless you are ready to cry. It is a short book and each page gives you reasons to appreciate things that we might take for granted.
This book came about by divine timing. I was given an assignment that I had to do dealing with how I viewed my last hour/minutes/days on this planet and write...what would be my own obituary. At first, I didn't know what to write, and after reading this book...it all came out. I shared this book with my instructor and she shared it with the class. It does put one who is unaware of how precious time is on this planet, and the relationship we have with one another.
Give it a chance and read it! Who knows it might change your views!
Sure, this book makes a good point to appreciate people and things in your life because you never know when things will end. But if anyone actually lived like this you would think they were so annoying you would never be around them. To top it off it's full of cliches, a few of which contradict each other. I wouldn't recommend it.
This a great book for perspective. Words are powerful on themselves but last moments with no words are just as powerful. Be weary of leaving a conversation or situation in such a way that you'd regret it if you or your friends/loved ones were gone forever.