Hello. I have 2 questions.
1 is, do you have any suggestions for good spiritually minded books to read to a 4-5 year old? We already have all of the available Ananda books, and were wondering if there are any more you could advise us.
2nd question. Do you have any advise on how I can stop caring so much about what other people think? I’m trying so hard to overcome this, but I still can’t let go completely of caring what other people think of me (a LOT). I’d be grateful for any advise!
—Chris, US
Dear Chris,
Thank you for your questions. Have you seen our Family Life Treasure Chest, full of resources devoted to bringing divine light into family life? Please scroll down on that page for the section, “Stories for Children of All Ages.” Please also see Life’s Little Secrets, and Prayer Demands for Children.
Years ago, I made a hobby of collecting spiritual books for children. I wrote about this process in chapter two of my online book, Finding God in Your Family. Some of my favorites may now be out of print, but I just saw a nice collection of books on amazon.com when I searched “kids spiritual books.” See if any of them resonate with what you feel is meaningful to share with your child.
We do need more children’s books from this spiritual path, and also uplifting books of a universal nature. It is such a powerful way to bring expansive light to young children! This is an area that I would love see developed by devotees of Paramhansa Yogananda. For now we have to use creatively the resources that do exist.
As for your other question, have you ever tried the Affirmation for Psychological Success by Paramhansa Yogananda? By strengthening your inner being, you will naturally begin to have a more balanced view of life itself, and not worry quite so much about what others think of you. Another simple technique is to assume that many other people have the same problem: they are worried about what others think of them! Solve your problem by solving somebody else’s problem. Make it your business to put others at ease with a genuine smile, and a kind word. This will take your mind off of yourself.
Try this affirmation by Paramhansa Yogananda can help you to develop this quality: “As I radiate love and goodwill to others, I will open the channel for God’s love to come to me. Divine love is the magnet that draws to me all good.”
I wish you all the best.
Mary Kretzmann, Director
Ananda Healing Prayer Ministry
