'Chicken Soup' good for all souls—November 30, 2012
For nearly two decades, Jack Canfield has compiled thousands of short stories which have been submitted by celebrities, mothers, teenagers, soldiers and many others who spill their thoughts on paper to benefit all kinds of readers.
‘My Homeless Man’ by Carol Lynn Pearson in “Chicken Soup….Stories For A better World” reminded me that we tend to judge people by their appearance instead of allowing the real person to shine by listening to their heart. We also cheat ourselves out of an opportunity to experience life from another point of view.
December inspires a kind of madness, it seems. Tension buries the Christmas Spirit. “Chicken Soup…Christmas Treasury for Kids” includes stories which are so full of “warm fuzzies” that it is impossible to choose a favorite. Some include a dose of humor while some encourage generosity and compassion.
Some of the stories shared in “Chicken Soup For The Soul at Work” help the reader understand the seemingly unreasonable attitudes displayed by some people. ‘Climbing The Stairway to Heaven’ by Joanna Slan reminds us that empathy is a powerful cure for deep anger and sadness. It costs nothing to offer compassion.
‘A Twenty-Four Karat Friendship’ is a surprise story by David Wallechinsky in “Chicken Soup For the Sports Fan’s Soul”. It is the story of a fear Jesse Owens felt in the presence of a competitor because of his size and the reputation of his heritage, but finds, instead, a friend who offers support and encouragement. Owens still treasures the memories of the friendship.
My husband, an avid reader, sat, one day, riveted by an essay by Robert A. Hall in “Chicken Soup For The Veteran’s Soul”. His face was filled with emotion as he read the words which described the scene at the funeral of a fallen Marine. The hero’s young son, a Cub Scout, saluted his father one last time. My husband thrust the book into the hands of a military son, whose face began to crinkle as he read the text and recalled similar scenes in his own past.
The stories in “Chicken Soup For the Soul: Find Your Happiness” are about common individuals who reach outside of their comfort zone to try to make a difference in the life of someone else. The result is a boomerang affect.
There are many more “Chicken Soup” titles by people in all walks of life. Along with the essays are meaningful quotes and cartoons which make their point with humor. “Chicken Soup for Little Souls” is a series for children, such as “A Dog of My Own” and “The Best Night Out With Dad”. They can teach children early about caring for others.
The “Chicken Soup For the Soul” series is never boring and usually very inspiring. Why not stop in to check out one of the many titles? Betcha can’t read just one!
