The Women’s Book of Empowerment

 

by Charlene M. Proctor, PhD

The Women’s Book of Empowerment is a book of affirmations for problems and challenges that women, in particular, face. Within its pages, affirmations are given for balance between work and family; to help the reader become stronger in the face of adversity; and even a whole section on corporate stress in the 9-to-5 world.

Despite the fact that the publisher is called The Goddess Network Press, Proctor refers to the spark of the divine as the “God-self.” The author also points out that men can use this book as well. Throughout, Proctor offers wisdom — assuring the reader that she’s gone through every situation in this book, which is a considerable amount of experience! She also serves as a cheerleader: “You are brave for being on this planet during such difficult times. Remember, your soul chose to be here to test your human capabilities to make change in the most arduous circumstances.”

The author states that “some of my ideas will give you a chuckle,” and that is indeed what happened when I saw the affirmation for “Haunted Hotel Rooms” under the “Vacation” section. Yes, as we all know, vacations can sometimes be more stressful than we can count on, but a haunted hotel room? I happen to know a few folks (myself included), that would pay good money for that experience! And I must say it never occurred to me to do an affirmation for when a household appliance breaks down.

Having said that, Proctor writes in a refreshing style and addresses a whole gamut of life circumstance with aplomb and moxie. The situations, just as in life, may be as relatively inconsequential as “Entertaining” to as serious as “A Death in the Family.” There is even an affirmation for a bad hair day! All of these are meant to change thinking from the negative to the proactive, with the result of changing your view on life. Some situations are unavoidable, but Proctor teaches us that our reactions can be within our control, and challenges can be seen as an opportunity for personal and spiritual growth.

The Women’s Book of Empowerment:
323 Affirmations That Change Everyday Problems into Moments of Potential
by Charlene M. Proctor, PhD
The Goddess Network Press, 2005
389 pp., $16.95

Review by Diane Saarinen