Review of We Can Do Hard Things: Answers to Life’s 20 Questions
When I first stumbled upon We Can Do Hard Things, I’ll admit it was Glennon Doyle’s name that pulled me in. As a fan of her previous work, I find her insights often cutting through the noise of everyday life to touch on the deep questions we all grapple with. Co-written with her sister Amanda and wife Abby Wambach, this guidebook for navigating the complexities of living pulled at my heartstrings, promising a blend of wisdom, vulnerability, and community that we all crave.
The book unfolds as a series of explorative dialogues, diving into life’s most pressing questions—Why am I like this? How do I know I’m doing it right?—questions that, frankly, resonate with anyone who has wrestled with self-doubt or life’s unpredictability. With their backgrounds of grappling with personal crises—including Amanda’s breast cancer diagnosis and Abby’s brother’s death—the authors weave their heartaches with conversations sourced from 118 remarkable wayfinders, from Roxane Gay to Ina Garten, creating a quilt of shared humanity.
One of the book’s central themes is the reminder that we’re not alone in our struggles. There’s an undeniable comfort in realizing others have walked similar paths. The authors compellingly illustrate this through anecdotes that feel intimate yet universal. As I read, I found myself nodding along, thinking of my own experiences, like the tumultuous journey of parenthood and the inevitable grief that accompanies love.
The writing style is conversational and warm, drawing the reader in as if you’re participating in a heart-to-heart conversation over coffee. Each chapter flows seamlessly, blending personal anecdotes, thought-provoking questions, and poignant advice from a diverse cast of contributors. It’s a testament to the power of shared wisdom, revealing how the guidance of others can illuminate our own struggles.
A standout moment for me came when Glennon reflects on the idea that “the wisdom of our fellow travelers will light our way.” This sentiment resonated deeply with me, acting as a gentle nudge to seek out connection when I feel disoriented. The book is filled with such gems—quotable insights that felt both comforting and clarifying amidst the chaos of life.
Perfect for readers who love self-help with a touch of raw honesty, We Can Do Hard Things offers more than just answers—it provides a lifeline in tough times. Whether you’re navigating the turbulent waters of a new chapter, grappling with grief, or simply seeking a lighter path through the chaos of daily life, this guidebook is a treasure trove of wisdom.
In conclusion, my experience with We Can Do Hard Things was less of a passive reading and more of an active engagement with my own feelings and experiences. It reminded me that while the journey can be tough, it’s also incredibly rich when we share it with others. I found not just solace, but empowerment within its pages. If you’re seeking a companion for life’s hard questions, this book just might become your go-to guide—because as Glennon, Abby, and Amanda remind us, we truly can do hard things.
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