Sometimes Your Greatest Misery Can be Your Greatest Happiness

by Pattimari Sheets-Diamond, Charlotte Huston-Johnson

Sometimes Your Greatest Misery Can be Your Greatest Happiness is a book about how powerful your thoughts are and how it can direct your life. This book is insightful, easy to read, filled with marvelous power and can change your life. There are short stories, quotes and how you can change your thoughts to make your life a better and happier one.

Genres: Self Help

134 pages, Paperback

First published November 7, 2010

Reviews

[Mary Kincaid]

The intention for the book as the author states it is to show us “that your greatest misery is where you find your greatest happiness. This book has been written to show you that this is a true statement.” It contains examples so the reader can understand the behaviors being discussed. I found those to be helpful in understanding the progression of her ideas. Her examples round up all the behaviors we might not associate with some type of negative emotion. She demonstrates that unexamined attitudes will lead to destructive behavior.

The author gives us a blueprint for living positively. “When we tuck and stuff our natural emotions it does damage to us. It grows until it reaches levels that are out of control.” The book contains poems, quotes, and other ways of exploring emotions and attitudes. It was easy to read. The examples, poems, and quotes are appropriate and understandable. I enjoyed it. I give it a five out of five.

[J.S. Luxor]

Patti's written an inspirational book that starts with her own experience of being in shock after her husband asks for a divorce and leaves. She discusses the process of healing that started soon after. Not only does the author, a psychotherapist, suggest cognitive exercises to help others cope but there are several quotes from Jung, Marianne Williamson, and a variety of sages from across the globe. Also there's some very uplifting poetry. I appreciate her honest and thoughtful approach to what happened in her subjective, inner life. It kept me intrigued and was soothing at the same time. My only critique is that a grammar checker would help with a few of the passages. Otherwise, it's a top notch read for someone who's going through a life crisis.

[Mary Blowers]

When I first picked up Sometimes our Greatest Misery is our Greatest Happiness by Pattimari Sheets Cacciolfi, I thought it was going to be a book about getting over divorce, since that is the “greatest misery” referred to in the first few pages. Instead, it was a broader view of how changing your mindset so that circumstances do not govern your moods can be beneficial. As St. Paul said, “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances (Phillipians 4:11).” Many poems and quotes are included that are meant to be inspiring as well as a look at various negative emotions that can come out of anger. A useful book that may help create a positive mental attitude.

[Martin Perks]

This book intrigued me. I’m lucky in that I’ve been happily married for thirty-five years, and have never experienced what Pattimari has gone through. But I’ve often wondered what it must be like, and how I would cope. The thought that your nearest and dearest has found someone else, and wants a divorce must be shattering. But Pattimari manages to get through this awful episode, and becomes a better person because of it. The book is truly inspiring and a tribute to her spirit.
I think anyone who goes through this should read this book. Lot’s of tips and help and suggested therapies are put across in a simple and direct style. Highly recommended.

[Jenny Hayworth]

A collection of the author's own musings as well as poetry and quotes from many others addressing difficult situations and emotions. Well written and laid out. No matter what your circumstances, we all face difficult situations in life and the author clearly shows how the power of thought can shape and change our emotional state. I especially loved the explanations from nature. They touched my heart and resonated with me. Very powerful.

[Chas Harrison]

Nice writing style, interspersed with touching poetry and great quotes. I've had a number of these experiences myself. The lessons from the animals are a nice addition. It can be hard for us to realize that our pain can actually be our greatest blessing. Tangle formation is a new one for me. Interesting. Taking control of our thought life should be one of our top priorities. Good book, well written.

[Kathryn]

This book reminds me of the philosophy behind the Laws of Attraction. Author Pattimari has given examples of how to turn the negative thinking into positive thinking. She gives examples of how to turn negative into positive and has added some very great quotes throughout the book to help along the way. I have highlighted many of those quotes to refer back to when times are tough.