cover image How to Want What You Have: Discovering the Magic and Grandeur of Ordinary Existence

How to Want What You Have: Discovering the Magic and Grandeur of Ordinary Existence

Timothy Miller. Henry Holt & Company, $19.95 (265pp) ISBN 978-0-8050-3317-5

Referring to the wisdom in the traditions of Buddhism, Christianity and humanistic philosophies, Miller here constructs a model by which individuals who seek ``more'' than what they have can find happiness by wanting what they already have. The process is difficult, he stresses, requiring a change of heart. A California cognitive psychotherapist, Miller establishes three pinciples-compassion, attention and gratitude-that must be employed lifelong for change to be lasting. Commingling case histories, anecdotes and engaging humor, he demonstrates the principles. This commonsense counselor offers a feasible method for living and enjoying a good life ``in accordance with the old saying that happiness is a way of traveling rather than a destination.'' Realistic solace for the discontented. (Jan.)