MBR reviews Simple Serenity by Nancy Oelklaus

Reviewer’s Bookwatch: April 2022
Carolyn Wilhelm’s Bookshelf

I didn’t think I needed any more finding joy books, so started reading thinking it would be the same old. The author suggested writing, drawing, painting, or other activities to help process the book. Not just read it through? Well, it seems I changed my mind soon after beginning to read. This is not a “preachy” text as Oelklaus explains how her thoughts helped her to find peace. She discusses being “in love” as opposed to trying to fix other people. She explains how she stopped being a fixer of other people and says it is freeing to her to mind her own business.

Yes, some of the short writing pieces with questions at the end did seem quite easy. Some seemed to be great for writing group prompts, some seemed good for a reading group discussion warm-up, or even useful for art class. I think counselors might refer to some chapters for finding discussion topics. One of her ideas to solve feeling overwhelmed is explained in terms of her practical and step-by-step system. All in a very short chapter, which others could try although it is explained in terms of her own life. Her lesson from a ceiling fan recently happened to me after I found a telescoping and bending duster online, bought it, and was able to dust our ceiling fans. The vignettes are relatable. She asks:

“When have you felt as if you were being held hostage and your world was narrowing? How did you work your way out of it?”

A wardrobe can support the life you truly want to live, according to Oelklaus. She tells about buying three pieces of clothing and donating four. No piling all the clothes you own in one room, just thinking about the life you want.

She also discusses a “God box.” Any nagging thoughts can be put in such a box until you can see it clearly for what is really is about.

With poetry, stories from real life, and questions, this book offers a chance for a new view of life. Highly recommend.


Alphabet Meditations for Teachers: Eveyrday Wisdom for Educators

978-1-932690-88-0
$19.95
In stock
1
Product Details
UPC: 978-1-932690-88-0
Brand: Loving Healing Press

Alphabet Meditations: Everyday Wisdom for Educators

Readers of these meditations will get back in touch with why they wanted to teach in the first place--because they care about kids and want to make a meaningful contribution to their lives. By using these meditations with the guide at the end of the book, teachers will:

  • Sharpen intuitive abilities.
  • Through letting go, watch issues be resolved easily.
  • Simply enjoy relationships with students, parents, and colleagues.
  • Enjoy teaching more by focusing on what's really important.
  • Be peaceful, regardless of what is going on.

Educators and Administrators Praise Alphabet Meditations for Teachers"Alphabet Meditations for Teachers is a most needed antidote to the toxic side effects of our accumulated reactions to institutional rigidity and regimentation; to models of efficiency that privilege technocratic instruction over meaningful and organic teaching and
learning."
--Caroline Eick, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Education Department, Mount St. Mary's University, Emmitsburg, MD


"Alphabet Meditations for Teachers tugs at the heart strings of all teachers who yearn for wisdom in seeking the answers to those struggles and frustrations faced by our profession. Nestled in the
honest questioning and prayers are answers for teachers regarding the spiritual power of teaching and the magnificent ignition of discovery, laughter, and true community in our classrooms."
--Sherry Henderson, Principal, Trinity Episcopal School, Marshall, TX


About the Author

A native of southwest Oklahoma, Nancy Oelklaus began her career as a high school English teacher in Marshall, Texas. She earned the B.A. in Communications, cum laude, from Oklahoma Baptist University, the M.A. in English from the University of North Texas and the doctorate in Educational Administration from Texas A&M University, Commerce, where she was named an outstanding graduate. For nine years she served as assistant superintendent for instructional services in Marshall, TX, followed by nine years as executive director for the Texas Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development.

Another book in the Growing With Love series from
Loving Healing Press www.LovingHealing.com


For more information please visit www.HeadToHeart.com
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Simple Serenity: Finding Joy in Your Life
Nancy Oelklaus
http://nancyoelklaus.com
Loving Healing Press
https://www.lhpress.com
9781615996636, $16.95 Paperback, $28.95 Hardcover, $4.95 Kindle, 168p

Carolyn Wilhelm, Reviewer
Wise Owl Factory LLC

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