IN SEARCH OF BLISS
"Part inspiration, part self-help, and part spiritual nourishment, this little book is a gem."
Review by Graciela Sholander
For Independent Professional Book Reviewers
www.bookreviewers.org
Part inspiration, part self-help, and part spiritual nourishment, this little book is a gem. Within the pages of J.L. 'Jah' Rainey's In Search Of Bliss you'll find words to comfort, uplift, encourage, and gently remind you that your existence is much more than the sum of your daily experiences. This collection of poems and reflections, interspersed with simple, soothing illustrations, offers readers a welcome respite from the busyness of life and a comforting serving of bliss.
The author has compiled thoughts on topics such as love, existence, truth, the state of being, transcendence, joy, generosity, grace, and much more. These meditations are loosely grouped into several categories, including "Places, Spaces, and Things" and "Forgetting and Re-membering." Some are simple, others thought-provoking, but all speak to the soul and are meant as encouragement on our earthly journeys.
Even the shortest writings offer insight into achieving greater happiness or harmony. For example, in this reflection, "Even the most competitive person will stop competing when I offer them my heartfelt assistance," the reader is reminded of the tremendous power an act of kindness can deliver. Self-empowering thoughts are intermixed with longer poems. In "Journey Into Sacred Space," the author explores the search for self. "The Illusion Of Fragmentation" is a treatise on wholeness.
Here is one of my favorites: "Only when I admitted the frailty of my humanness did I find the courage and strength to turn within and find the eternal beauty of my soul." There is a nugget of wisdom encapsulated within each writing, a lesson delivered with gentleness and compassion. Not one of the musings is grandiose; all possess a certain simplicity that makes them more accessible and pleasing.
The reader can elect to go through In Search Of Bliss in order, but I feel the book is equally effective if the reader chooses to skip around. A good way to approach this book might be to read it through once from cover to cover, and then refer back often to favorite passages or random pages.
I like the gentle wisdom contained within these pages. Much of the content is meant to be thought provoking in a completely non-threatening way. It merely strives to get the reader to look at another perspective or consider an alternate viewpoint. The themes of forgiveness, love, gratitude, acceptance, and of course bliss are prevalent throughout.
J.L. Rainey has compiled a lovely little book full of positive wisdom presented in a delightful arrangement. The words and drawings are pleasant, designed to bring out the best in the reader. Each page offers food for the soul and food for thought. In Search Of Bliss is an oasis of tranquility in a busy landscape of titles. Whether you start or end each day with a few thoughts from this book, you'll be bringing a little more harmony to your being.
In Search of Bliss by J.L. 'Jah' Rainey (formerly known as Ana-Ste-Jah), is one of the most soulfully gratifying and spirit fulfilling books I've read on the subject. This book resonates like a literary symphony of joy. I especially appreciate the book's practical, heartfelt and down to earth style, never preachy or pretentious. As I enjoy 'In Search Of Bliss 1", I anxiously await 'Bliss 2'...
Bashiri Johnson
Michael Jackson/Whitney Houston Percussionist
In Search of Bliss is a healthy dose of clarity. Jah's personal journey and her wise conclusions are revealed in this graceful and poetic collection. So beautifully, this little book of ideas and inspirations makes a big statement that should not be missed. Jah takes her keen ability to see the simplicity of life''s gems and creates a clear path of thinking for those who remain cluttered on the inside. Bliss' insights on love and relationships could be just what the world is looking for if we all dare to take our sunglasses off.
Kim Green
Author, Editor
"J.L. 'Jah' Rainey is the juxtaposition of wisdom and creative energy. "In Search of Bliss" reveals the lies we tell ourselves as a society."
Diallo Shabazz
Political & Education Consultant
"J.L. 'Jah' Rainey is a healer of mind, body and spirit. Similar to Mother Theresa, but with poetic style."
Lisa Montana
Fire Safety Director, Starwood Hotels
"J.L. 'Jah' Rainey has been an amazing coach and inspiration. Her insights have made a profound difference in my life."
Devoria Simmons
Culinary Teacher, New York, NY
"This book is a Must Read! Jah is here to change the game. Jah is an extraordinary person with an incredible gift of communicating and impacting the lives of others. Jah is not afraid to love through actions and through words."
Nikki B. West
Entrepreneur/CEO, D.U.C.K Group North America