by Saint Mark (bio)
A few months ago on the T (that's the subway in Boston) a woman punched me in the face. She punched me because I did not move out of her way fast enough. Now, I've heard of road rage but I have never heard of "subway rage."
Because people like Miss Sucker Punch exist in this world, I thought I would make a plug for two books that have helped me to deal with people like her. In fact, if every human on earth were to read and apply these two books, I believe there would be a lot less conflict and a whole lot more compassion.
My book choices are The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People
by Stephen R. Covey and How to Win Friends and Influence People
by Dale Carnegie. These are two of the most impactful books I have ever read, next to holy writ (i.e. the Holy Bible and The Book of Mormon). Whether reminding us of the importance of not complaining and criticizing others or learning the importance of being proactive and not letting life act upon you, these books build upon cherished verities that are common in scripture.If you haven't read them, do yourself, your family, your friends, your community and your fellow subway riders a favor and read these books. Your life and others' lives who are around you will be better for it. And maybe more people will give and receive more love and less rage in subways, roads, homes, and in their hearts.
What books would be on your short list and why?
