Merle Shain (1935–1989)

Courage My Love should not be mistaken for a self-help book, nor a book on how to have the perfect relationship or be a perfect person. Rather, this is a beautiful book of prose written by an author who has undergone much hardship and sadness herself, but has still found a way to love, to examine what makes us tick, and what makes relationships all worthwhile.

Some of her viewpoints may not be ones you agree with, some will. Her words will make you think and question love, life, and how you show more give to others, how others give to you, and how you can change and grow as an individual. Above all, the message I took away from this book is that love must come from within ourselves, and once we love the person we are, we are able to give back tenfold.

Overall, very easy to read, with beautiful, poetic prose. It is food for the soul, something self-help books do not fulfill. I hope it gives as much soul food to others as it did for me. show less

Great book on facing and feeling the pain in our lives and realizing the effect wounds and the defenses we build have on us.

I gave the book to a friend, but I'd like to replace this.

She also wrote "Some Men are More Perfect Than Others" and "When Lovers are Friends."