Chieko N. Okazaki (1926–2011)

A friend gave me Sanctuary in a loving attempt to provide support for past trauma and abuse in my life. Although her motives were pure, this book was not only unhelpful but invalidating as well.

The author falls into the trap that religious scholars often do; that is to offer that dedicated faith and prayer alone can cure depression, PTSD and other psychiatric illnesses.

There is great danger in this fallacy, one that, thankfully, religion seems to be slowly awakening to. Unfortunately, much show more harm has been done in the meantime. I would not recommend this book. show less

Sister Okazaki uses the familiar symbol of the cat's cradle made out of string to illustrate an important principle. In that little figure, no one segment of string can say it is the most important. The string works all together, as one piece, or it doesn't work. If we approach relationships from the same perspective, we can get so much more accomplished than if we are worrying about who gets the credit, who is doing more work, or which jobs are more glamorous.

She talks a lot about her life show more with her husband and lessons she learned as a teacher and principal. She told some great stories, but I felt that it got a little repetitive at times. But it was a very inspirational book. The most touching part for me was when she talks about change and how we should react to change. Last week, my daughter was admitted to the hospital for depression and the next day my husband lost his job. Talk about some changes! We have had a lot of tough experiences the last few years, and I am not excited about this latest batch. I needed a reminder that there is One who 'changest not' and I can count on Him. 3.5 stars show less

This was the most amazing book to help me feel free of the Christian guilt we sisters often burden ourselves with: unnecessarily. Heavenly Father loves us, and He knows we are trying hard to be and do everything. Chieko Okazaki uses examples to help show how to let go of the things that don't mean much to the big picture of life and eternity. I love the way she writes, and how she expresses love for all of us sisters, wherever we are.

This was my first Chieko Okazaki book, after I heard her talk of the same name. Her books are easy to read a quick chapter at a time, and each chapter is an example of what she's teaching. It's all about how to find that balance between trying to please your family, do the necessary things, and yet find a way to rest, recharge, and do the things that matter from an eternal perspective.

Her writing style is very easy to read, and profound. I would read a chapter and think about it all day, show more before going on. I want to read more of her books. show less