When Perfect Isn't Enough

WHEN PERFECT ISN'T ENOUGH is the title of a book I read this week by Nancy Kennedy. The subtitle is How I Conquered My Fear of the Proverbs 31 Woman. (Waterbrook Press, 2003) Non-fiction, with stories and humor, is a great mix. I loved the funny thoughts that the writer expressed, the details that she was not too proud to share, and her candid look at life.

The book relates her feelings of inadequacy in the face of the thirty-first chapter of Proverbs where a woman of great virtue and value is described. The Proverbs 31 woman's list of daily activities would intimidate the best housewife! I have never enjoyed that chapter of the Bible either because it seems impossible to measure up to.

Yet, Nancy set out to be that virtous woman. The chapters are all about how she struggled with each aspect of the perfect woman and how she came to grips with each. Some of her stories are just too silly to be true. I needed a good laugh and a good dose of hope that I am doing fine in this mother/wife job.

The books cover is cute, with a photo of a cheerful, bright, welldressed woman energetically (and in red high heels) walking on water. I bought the book because of the title and cover, but as I hadn't read this author before, I was doubtful of good content. I was surprised though by the book and liked it very much.

Other books by this author are When He Doesn't Believe; Prayers God Always Answers; and Move Over Victoria, I know the Real Secret. I would like to find these and read them too. (They are all sold on Amazon and on Half.com)