Illusive Secrets: Discovering the Power of Self-Honesty

This book was far beyond what I imagined it would be. First, it was such an easy read that I could have easily read it in one sitting because after reading each chapter, I couldn't wait to move on to the next one. But I found that if I paced myself and read one chapter a day (or even one chapter a week) and really got honest with myself, taking the time to evaluate my own reactions in daily circumstances and why I react that way, amazing things began to happen. I was drawn into this book by Jim's brutal honesty, admitting to having thoughts we all have from time to time but never talk about or say out loud. Being a woman who grew up in the South and taught to smile and be kind regardless of how I feel inside, I wouldn't even admit to myself how self-serving many of my actions are on a daily basis. Jim forced me to look at myself in a way I had not been brave enough to look at myself before. Many chapters brought up feelings that were uncomfortable at first, but the beauty of this book is that once these thoughts are brought to the surface, they can be healed, released, and transformed into something much more pleasant and healthy.I took my time reading this book and will most likely refer to it over and over to remind myself not to fall back into old patterns. I have read many 'self-help' books in the past 20 years but this one was more helpful than most. It is definitely at the top of my list. I am grateful for Jim's candor - he helped me to look at parts of myself that I was ashamed to see in the past. But all darkness fades when exposed to the light and that is how I feel after reading this book - brighter, lighter, more centered and at peace with myself.I can't wait to read the next book! If it is anything like this one, I probably have a lot more work to do. And that isn't a bad thing. Thanks, Jim!