In the Heart of the World: Thoughts, Stories and Prayers

"In the Heart of the World" is emblamatic of the philosophy that Mother Teresa spent a lifetime demonstrating. Penned by this saintly woman, the book is divided into three sections: Thoughts, Stories, and Prayers. Because it allows readers to read into the heart and mind of Mother Teresa, the "Thoughts" section of the book may be the most significant. It is here that Mother Teresa puts into writing the philosophy of her work. While poverty of material is tragic, being impoverished of the love of other is worse. For this reason, "Smile five times a day at someone you really don't want to smile at at all." This point is further exemplified in the "Stories" section. As she often writes, love and compassion will overcome the world long before bombs and guns.

This slim yet profound little book is a joy to read. It distills all the hype down to a pure and simple message of love.

The three sections of this slender volume, "Thoughts", "Stories", and "Prayers", are exquisitely written, and describe the life of the sisters who live in India and many other parts of the world, in austere simplicity, helping those in need.Though there is the occasional flavor that the words are coming from someone whose mother tongue was not English, it does not detract from the beauty of the language, or its intent, which is to inspire us to serve, on any level that we are able to: "And be faithful is small things because it is in them that your strength lies" (pg. 15). This thought is paraphrased again on page 98.The subject of loneliness runs through the entire book, emphasizing the compassion needed towards those who have been cast aside from society; Mother Teresa speaks of loneliness being the most painful suffering: "...the deepest poverty is not being loved" (pg. 66).Originally published as The Mother Teresa Reader, it has a lovely layout, with a lot of space to frame the thoughts, and has chapter opening quotes by Michael Collopy.Though it is a book that could be read in an evening, perhaps it is better taken in small portions and given time and consideration. The level of humility and faith is deep, and deserves our attention.

This little book comprising of Mother Teresa's thoughts, stories and prayers is a good spiritual guide for inspirational reading and reflection. It is particularly helpful to those who have not been exposed to her work or ideas. According to the content, the book is divided into three parts: Thoughts, Stories and Prayers. The book provides the reader with a good taste of the spiritual legacy of this modern saint. If you are looking for a comprehensive volume of Mother Teresa's spiritual insights and messages for the world, your search will have to continue.

In this wonderful book, Mother Teresa shares her thoughts on a variety of virtues, shares some wonderful stories which give the reader a true sense of her works, and offers a collection of prayers and reflections. An inspiring collection!