Update: I’m happy that Catherine, of comment #19, won Priscilla’s book in my giveaway. Congratulations, Catherine – I can’t wait to hear how you like it!
I’m thrilled to be participating in a blog party for Priscilla Warner‘s birthday. I read Priscilla’s book, Learning to Breathe, last year, and was immensely moved by it. I later read her first book, The Faith Club, in anticipation of our family trip to Jerusalem, and learned a lot of valuable information about the three religions that intersect so richly – and with such sparks – in the winding streets we walked in December.
Leaning to Breathe was one of those books that I think about every day. It was nothing less than a light for me, a beacon showing me the path, an invisible hand on my shoulder reassuring me that I am not alone in my sometimes-frantic, often-agitated search for a something I know is that even though I can’t quite name it yet.
Some of the greatest things in life don’t have to be so dramatic … It’s in the quiet moments that our lives are shaped. In homes, in cribs, in bedrooms, in the little things. That’s where it all happens.
This is my favorite passage from Learning to Breathe, and is one of the book’s many such intimate epiphanies. I’ve had the good fortune to get to know Priscilla through email since I read her book, and she’s every bit as delightful, warm, human, and inspirational as I had imagined. Furthermore, she has both the same name and same home town as my beloved grandmother, a small coincidence that nevertheless made me feel even closer to her. I’m thrilled to add my voice to the chorus that is chanting:
Happy birthday, Priscilla!
As part of this celebration, I’m thrilled to give away a copy of Priscilla’s book. If you relate to any of what I write here, I can assure you you will be touched by Priscilla’s story of learning to breathe, both literally and metaphorically. Please leave a comment and that will enter you into the giveaway. I can’t emphasize how meaningful Priscilla’s book is; I think everybody should read it.
In addition to this giveaway, Priscilla is hosting a wonderful birthday giveaway on her blog. She is giving away one of her buddha bracelets, a tibetan singing bowl, her favorite candle, nirvana Belgian chocolate, and a CD by Bellruth Naparstek, her guided imagery guru. Please click over to Priscilla’s blog to participate. Some other writers who join me in celebrating Priscilla are there as well. It is my honor to share in this wave of love towards someone who I am proud to call my teacher. Thank you, thank you, thank you, Priscilla, for all that you are, to me to so many.
Priscilla’s book sound divine–I hope I win it! I I’m a new subscriber who has resonated with your essays, Lindsey, even though my children are 16 and 19. Keep up the good work! By the way, I found you because my 19 year old son posted your essay “Things I Want My 10-Year Old Daughter to Know” on FB and my sister e-mailed it to me later that same day. It was perfect reading for my 16-year old daughter and also for my sister’s daughters who are in their 20’s, so thank you!
Hi, I very much relate to what you wrote in the post, I usually do with almost everything yoy write. You make me good company! I am from Argentina, but I lived in Cambridge for two years a long time ago, and I also love to read about your life there!
I wrote these days a little and ¨quiet¨post about Quiet, and I d love to read priscilla s book
Love
Florencia
Thank you for sharing Priscilla’s work. I am taking nine days off in early July – this book is certainly a must-read for me. Your writing is lovely and rather haunting – I look forward to your posts.
From reading your blog,and now Priscilla’s, I now understand that the searching, wondering, examining are not mine alone. You make very good companions as I walk this life. That we are all separate but together seems to resonate thru my life more and more each day. Thanks for the guidance and inspiration.
I just read your original review of this book and was very moved by the two passages you shared, in particular the message from her friend at the end of the book. That really resonated with me, since part of my understanding of anxiety is that in one sense it can be seen as a kind of spiritual dissonance or disharmony–a way in which we’re out of alignment with ourselves. When we learn that, we can begin to address it. I am learning to work with my own anxiety more compassionately… I, too, seek peace. I plan to read the book….thanks for sharing this reminder that we’re not alone and there are kindred spirits out there.
I love the passage and will add the book to my list of your recommendations. Thank you Lindsey and happy birthday to Priscilla!
Lindsey, I love being part of this birthday celebration with you. You were one of the ones who first told me about Priscilla’s book — but I think I read it at exactly the right moment. (You were right, however, it was a “must” for me!)
Thank you for the introduction to a new book. I have enjoyed trying to keep up with your reading!
I was planning to post to Facebook later today to ask for book recommendations and today I see that you and Katrina both recommend Learning to Breathe!
Thanks so much for sharing and I wish a VERY happy birthday to Priscilla!
thank you for your generous and exquisite offer, lindsey. this simple, yet profound, celebration is healing balm for my soul (which has been quite tender lately). the sisterhood circle, the wholehearted writing, and the joy…grateful for it all.
Will have the biggest birthday bash tioga has ever seen on July 4th, HAPPY BIRTHDAY.
Happy Birthday, Priscilla!! And thanks Lindsey for all your sharing!
I’m so happy it’s Priscilla’s birthday! Her gift to me is offering new blogs I probably never would have found on my own.
Lindsey, I am becoming a subscriber and then I’ll be able to spend as much time as needed to read and absorb your archives.
Thanks!
Lindsey, I ended up here via Katrina Kenison & I’m SO excited to follow your writing.
“Learning to Breathe” has been at the top of my to-read list since you told me about it — whether I win it here or not, I’ll be reading it soon!
The book looks lovely. Thanks for sharing!
Sara
Can’t wait to read Priscilla’s book! I have been a follower of your blog for quite some time, and am always inspired and touched by your words.
Thank you for your lovely words. This is the second time in a week I have “visited” you – first, my friend sent me your essay, “Ten things I want my 10 year old Daughter to Know.” It was beautiful. I shared it with my husband, 17 year old son, and most importantly, my 15 year old daughter. Today, indirectly through Katrina Kenison’s blog, is my second visit. I think I was meant to find you this week!
thank you for sharing so honestly. I’m off to do some exploring on your site! CMK
Thank you for the lovely recommendation. I intend to check out Priscilla’s books. I am grateful to have found your blog recently. Your words have encouraged me to return to my own writing.
Lindsey – what an inspiration you are to so many people. So certainly, an inspiration to you is bound to be another wonderful inspiration to your devoted readers and followers. I can’t wait to read Priscilla’s book, Happy Birthday Priscilla!
I really love the quote you included in this post and have sensed its truth in my life. Happy Birthday to Priscilla and good luck to all who have entered the book drawing!
As so much of what you write resonates deep with me, I’m sure I’d enjoy Priscilla’s writing as well. Thank you for doing this giveaway!
Lindsey, your words hit me so powerfully. I am so grateful that we have recently connected :). I am ordering Learning to Breathe as soon as I post this comment.
Okay, I lied. I just bought it-before posting it, mid comment!!
I can’t wait to begin reading it tonight. Thank you for sharing this beautiful celebration.
Love,
Carolyn
I read Priscilla’s book after you wrote about it last year. I would love to have a copy of my own – it is ripe for reading again and again and again.
Thank you for all that you share, Lindsey!
Jen
I am a new reader of your blog. Thanks for writing!