June 15, 2015
Relationship advice for couples is popular, as seen in the plethora of books on the topic. Napthali (Buddhism for Mothers; Buddhism for Parents on the Go) takes an unconventional approach to examining the rewards and difficulties of living as a couple. She reflects honestly on her own shortcomings in marriage, applying insights from a lifetime of meditation practice, personal study of Buddhism, and thoughtful reading of contemporary Buddhist writings in this excellent exploration of intimate relationships. Overcoming negativity, anger, stress, and anxiety while maintaining open communication, forgiveness, and understanding are some of the themes she views through the lens of Buddhist psychology and thinking. A spirit of curiosity and acceptance are ways of counteracting the suffering that is part of intimate relationships. Napthali invites readers to balance personal responsibility with self-compassion and generosity toward our partners ("Could I shift my perspective to a more flexible one that allows for inevitable periods of ill will" while learning to accept that "a relationship has seasons"). The author strikes a careful harmony between contemplation and action, closing every chapter with questions that inspire self-reflection. VERDICT A thoughtful invitation for all readers to renew their understanding of intimate relationships with equanimity and self-awareness.--Bernadette McGrath, Vancouver P.L
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