At the outset there is this question: what can a Jewish man learn from a book written for Mormon women? Will that fellow find anything of value, anything useful, in this book?

Better Than You Think is a warm, comfortable series of meditations on the subject of self-esteem and the importance of a healthy attitude toward life and religion. It tackles head on the problems of too-high expectations and frequent failures to meet those expectations.

Such teachings are hardly particular to women; they apply to men, too. And neither are they only applicable to Latter-day Saints. While religion does have a tendency to make strong demands on its adherents, and while these adherents frequently fail to live up to the standards set forth by religious authorities, we acknowledge secular society's tendency toward demanding much of its people. At home, on the job, in school -- we're constantly called to do more, to do better. And sometimes we just can't.

Kapp calls on us to formulate our own place in life, becoming more self-directing in our spiritual development. On page 25 she tells a charming tale emphasizing the importance of individual attainment and goal-setting, rather than submitting to a one-size-fits-all philosophy of religious administration.

Particularly good is her emphasis on appreciating the moment, looking at an essentially good world, putting aside our endless lists of things to do, and simply breathing in the goodness of God in His creation. "When we take time to lay our pencils down and look up from our books, even briefly, we will celebrate the temporary and cherish the time." (p. 84)

There is a strongly upbeat feel to this book, one that acknowledges the difficulties we face in this modern world. It calls us to become more realistic about our abilities and ambitions, while acknowledging that elements of society, even religion, can create a chasm within us that needs to be filled with something positive.

I enjoyed reading this book, even though it wasn't written for me. In fact, it reflects universal values, embracing the best that is in us, and calling us forth to greater achievement.

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Jeff Needle
April 4, 2005