WHAT I LEARNED: 1. I won this book in a raffle basket many moons ago but I was afraid to read it because it was about grief & loss.  I thought if I did, something bad would happen – which makes about as much sense as not making a last will & testament means I can’t die yet.  Then my boyfriend passed away about 5 months ago & again I didn’t want to read it because I thought it would only make me cry even more & I’m so tired of being sad.  But it seems I was meant to read this book right at this particular time in my life.  For me, this book wasn’t just another book – it became a pillow.  It gave me rest & helped me to sleep.

2. All different types of loss are covered with explanations, sharings, & questions for reflection on each of the 9 chapters.  It’s almost impossible to be involved with alcoholism, or addiction of any kind, & not be touched by loss… loss of dreams, one’s childhood, a loved one, or a sense of one’s own self.  I learned that although I may not have acknowledged it properly, I’ve actually been grieving for much of my life – even when my boyfriend was still alive & my “perfect” relationship was on life support.  This book’s overall theme is not one of sadness, but instead it’s a gentle reminder that grief is a process just like recovery.  They both take time & are buoyed by hope.

3. I have many favorite lines from this book, but the one that has really stayed with me is from page 39: “What I have lost is mainly an illusion of what I thought life would be.”

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***UPDATE (10/5/22): 🆕 Just got my brand new audiobook version of “Opening Our Hearts” (item # eA-29).  I paid $12.99 but prices vary between the 6 audio vendors.  Check it out at: Al-Anon’s Literature Store.  I’ll be posting my review of this audiobook soon!

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****UPDATE (11/4/22): My review of the new audiobook version of “Opening Our Hearts” (item # eA-29) is now posted.  You can click here to read the post.