I've Been Thinking is not a book that needs to be read cover to cover. Rather than chapters, it is a written in a manner that invites the reader to glide through and find the theme that resonates at that moment. I've subscribed to Maria's digital newsletter, The Sunday Paper for a while now, and this book "evolved" from her column, " I've Been Thinking". Themes, rather than chapters, offer invitations to contemplate. A few that captured my thoughts included "I Am Who I Chose to Become", "The Power of Peace Starts from Within" and "What I'm Carrying With Me into Each New Year". Thoughtful quotes are included with each theme. For example, "We're in Need of a Social Kindness Movement" shares the quote attributed to Mark Twain, "Kindness is the language that the deaf can hear and the blind can see".
Prayers and meditations are woven throughout. Maria writes, "While I use the word 'God' to describe a force larger than myself, I know not everybody does. I'm just sharing with you what has helped me navigate my own life. As they say, 'Take what you like and leave the rest'."
I highly recommend this book to use in reflection and as a guide as you contemplate your mindful moments.
