HAPPIEST LIFE: Seven Gifts, Seven Givers & The Secret to Genuine Happiness BY Hugh Hewitt

 

 

Hugh Hewitt's presentation of the seven gifts and givers takes one's eyes off the materialism that is so prevalent in today's society.  The REAL gifts are not shoes and electronics, they are encouragement, energy, enthusiasm, empathy, good humor, graciousness, and gratitude.  These are gifts that cost nothing, but, are priceless to the receiver. 

 

The givers - the spouse, the parent, family members, friends, the coworker, teachers, and the church - these are the people to turn to when in need of the above gifts.  These people provide the foundation of our happiness.  It is not without effort that we build a life of happiness - but, the destination is definitely worth the journey.

 

The first two-thirds of this book were spell-binding and chock full of information that so many need these days.  The last third of the book seems more anecdotal than informational.  However, the information is still great, providing living examples of a life well-lived, giving God, the most generous giver, the credit. 

 

Throughout the book, Hewitt gently guides the reader in the direction of finding and being his/her best self.  It is through letting go of self and embracing the needs of others that one's true purpose is found.  With the discovery of purpose and the ability to sympathize and empathize - two totally different things - happiness often floats in. 

 

Hewitt provides great direction and motivation to his readers to really dig deep and follow-through to finding the path to living their "happiest life."