“In loving one another through out works we bring an increase of grace and a growth in divine love.” Mother Teresa 1910 - 1997

There have been precious few people who have been able to move through the world opening the heart and soul of those around them.

Mother Teresa was one of those magical souls who managed to fill others with hope and love, and move others to do more than they thought they were capable of.

Her book, “In the Heart of the World,” is a collection of thoughts, stories and prayers which invite the reader to experience the loving energies of a woman who lived to love others as she knew God did.

This book was sent to me by the publisher, New World Library, and was definitely a happy surprise. I didn’t even know that Mother Teresa had written a book! (These are her thoughts and words compiled by LaVonne Neff – originally published in 1995.)

As I sat and read through it (the first time) I found myself moved to tears. Her stories are about her experiences with people in distress, poverty and sickness, and how she and her sisters and other helpers acted with kindness to those in such great need.

“God loves the world through you and through me.” From the book – page 13.

One of the stories that touched me the most was of a dying man whom the sisters brought in to their home. He was filthy dirty, and covered with maggots. As they cleaned him up, and did their best to make him comfortable he told them “I have lived like an animal in the street, but I am going to die like an angel surrounded by love and care.”

Mother Teresa talks about how many people feel unloved, and she believed that God loved others through her (and everyone in fact). She said “Somebody loves us too – God himself. We have been created to love and be loved.” (From the book – page 68.)

I thought this book was beautiful and amazing. I was inspired by this woman who could easily reach out to absolutely anyone, when so many others would divert their eyes and hurry by.

Mother Teresa saw, in those who suffered, Jesus in a distressing disguise. She believed that the heart of Christianity was loving others, and that we are truly of service when we reach out with love and compassion to work for the greater good.

This book was sent to Deanna by the publisher for the purpose of reviewing.