I’ve never read a book by Hugh and Gayle Prather prior to this gift from New World Library, but I plan to. This introduction to the couple who’ve inspired many through their teachings, authentic outreach, and writings, is a great way to start—and end your indulgence. This particular book was found and finished by Gayle, and it’s all the more poignant because it was largely written by her husband, Hugh, who passed after they’d completed their final edits.

I learned through the foreword Gayle’s adoration and admiration for Hugh, who’s impetus in writing this book was to inspire others to live with love, forgiveness, and peace. To me, this segment reads like a love letter to her husband, and to the reader. Gayle’s heartfelt compassion for those who need peace and healing aligns with her husband’s lifelong goal.

On to the book. I love a book that makes me laugh and cry, and Gently Down This Dream promises both.

It’s a collection of the author’s pearls of wisdom, presented in a journey of rules. But it’s not a lecture or ‘holier are thou’ doctrine that may turn one off. Rather, it’s a lighthearted, gentle nudge of what’s learned and what’s possible when you mindfully attend to the topics presented within. From awakening in life to sacrifice with a dash of sex and politics thrown in, the authors share brief stories and takeaway nuggets that make you smile and think.

My favorite example is when Hugh chased down a florist in his driveway in his underwear. The principal he’s trying to impart was the meaning of love expressed, and after the florist made several attempts at delivering a Mother’s Day gift, he’d felt guiltily compelled to retrieve it despite his state of dress.

“My idea was to give her a tip so large that it would erase the memory of a senior citizen in underwear…giving her more cash than the gift basket itself probably cost.”

It’s these precious pearls—some funny, some poignant—that are so relatable, you want to keep on digging for more.

Gently Down This Dream is the antidote to superficial living—an epidemic of our time. And yes, sometimes a book comes along and whacks you right in the sternum when you need it most. After you right yourself, open it up, and recognize its timely relevance, you brace yourself for the long overdue and thoroughly needed truth. In their final book together, the Prather’s invite you in for a pot of tea, some shared laughs, and a healthy cup of wisdom.

Image Courtesy of New World Library