Who knows, maybe those two rogue leaders, Gandhi and Jesus, were right – a loving response changes the people who would beat the shit out of you, including yourself, of course. Their way, of the heart, makes everything bigger. Decency and goodness are subversively folded into the craziness, like caramel ribbons into ice cream. Otherwise, it’s about me, and my bile ducts, and how unique I am and how I’ve suffered. And that is what hell is like. So whom was I going to echo, Gandhi and Jesus, or Tammy and me?
Look, can you give me a minute to decide?
Do you want to be happy, or do you want to be right? Hmm. Let me get back to you on this.
~ Anne Lamott. “Pirates.” Small Victories: Spotting Improbable Moments of Grace
I just finished Lamott’s new book and loved it. It’s my first foray into her work. Be forewarned, this book has more than its fair share of suffering and grief, but the sun’s rays do peak in. I’m drawn to her rants and her candor on her neuroses (but could have done without the political barbs). I marvel at the authenticity of her self-reflection and the beauty and clarity of her observations of life. The book roars out of the gate for the first half and tends to run out of steam. For Lamott lovers, you should note that this book is a compilation of new and selected (aka previously published) essays.
Find the book on Amazon here: Small Victories: Spotting Improbable Moments of Grace
Photo Credit: TimeOut
Lamott’s “Bird by Bird” is my Bible. She taught me about “Shitty First Drafts,” which is what keeps me writing and means I never, EVER, have writer’s block.
Sandy, thanks for the recommendation. I’m on my way to pick it up.
Sounds good
Liked it a lot Angelica…
Bird by Bird was my introduction to Lamont years ago. She’s got quite the gift.
That’s 2 recommendations for Bird by Bird. Looks like I need to get on it. Thanks.
I love her except for her political rants too–I have been a fan for almost twenty years
Bird by Bird for writing, without question. But you really can’t go wrong with any of her books (yes, I have read them all)..
I forgot to add – I’m a rabid fan of hers – not necessarily well-read, just a bit fanatical.
Mimi, I’m new to her. Where would you start?
My favs? Bird by Bird, Traveling Mercies; Help Thanks Wow; Hard Laughter and Blue Shoe…
Thank you
And another hooray for “Bird by Bird” — my intro to Lamott as well and a frequent re-read. A must for anyone who spends any significant amount of time writing, I would submit…
OK, OK, I’m on Bird by Bird.
Now I’m thinking I may need to get a copy of Bird by Bird!
smiling, better hurry b4 its sold out… 🙂
Reblogged this on It Is What It Is and commented:
Something to think about ….. maybe?
🙂 Thanks for sharing Horty
Always dear friend!!! 😎
Reblogged this on THE STRATEGIC LEARNER.
Thanks for sharing John.
My spouse reads everything everything written by her, me, I have not. Guess it is time.
Time for me too…
I choose happy over right every time
Great choice! 🙂
From Liam Neeson to Anne Lamott—you are well-rounded!
Well rounded (or frenetic!)
Wow, I’m going to look for Bird by Bird, followed by this one. Thanks David and all. It took me quite a few years to learn to choose happy over right, by the way. Is it an age thing? Or perhaps I was an ultra slow learner. It’s sure saved me some grief in recent years. Great post 🙂
Makere, rather than slow learner, let’s call it Evolution. (I enjoyed the documentary by the way)
http://youtu.be/ffKjhyeyVW8
Evolution indeed ! That’s truly the path we’re on 🙂
Another Anne Lamott fan here 🙂