The 12 Purposes of Life: A Down-To-Earth Guide for the Mortal Traveler

by Jay A. Parry

". . . an easy to read, and clearly written, blueprint for those wishing to find the key to a richer and fuller life." — Jeffrey Needle, Association for Mormon Letters -- As Latter-day Saints, we seem to share a universal desire to find meaning in everyday living and to know what we can do to improve our time in mortality by focusing on what matters most. In his warm and engaging style, author Jay A. Parry identifies twelve specific reasons why we were sent to earth and tells how we can have a richer, happier life — and a greater blessing in the life to come — as we understand God's purposes and begin living up to our individual possibilities. Using stories, examples, and scriptural support, The Twelve Purposes of Life shows what we can do to fulfill our life's purpose.

Genres: Nonfiction, Religion

279 pages, Hardcover

First published September 1, 2005

Reviews

[Kristina · Rating 4 out of 5]

We existed as intelligences before this mortal life. We came to earth to get a body and were physically separated from God. In this life, we knew we would sin, And therefore become spiritually separated from God. It is through the atonement of Jesus Christ that we become reunited physically and spiritually with God eternal father. Page 63

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was not one book I would have bought for myself, I was given the book as a gift, so thought it would be good to read it. I was amazed at how much I liked it. The chapters are concise, and it is easy to read. There are many profound thoughts in this book. I found that it gave me a new perspective on life and how to live in it. I would not put this book in the category of "life changing", although some people might. However, I have found it to be be very helpful. At times you may feel that you need to adjust a little bit, but you do not know where to start to adjust. This book will point you in the right direction and assist you. After reading, I wish I had made notes in the margin, so I could go back and begin to change some things in my life. I will end up going back, re-read and take notes.

[Heather · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book. It has questions at the end of each chapter to make you think about the principles that have been spoken about within the chapter. I think I could have got more out of this book if I had taken the time to really answer them. But it was an enjoyable read with short stories throughout to help teach principles.

[Grandma · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great book. I particularly like the way Jay writes. (What a surprise) I copied all of the surprising things he says will be accomplished by the Atonement. I need to read it again.

[Lindsay · Rating 5 out of 5]

I need to read this again. It really is a down-to-earth guide with great scriptural references and fabulous quotes. My copy is filled with highlighter!

[Desiree · Rating 1 out of 5]

this is a slow read and hard to stay with I did not end up finishing it, lost interest.

[April · Rating 3 out of 5]

Great pondering points at the end of each chapter.

[Pam Jewell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very well written and understandable in layman terms. A book that could be read again and again to remind us just why we are here.