“Perfectly Yourself: 9 Lessons for Enduring Happiness,” by Matthew Kelly. Beacon Publishing (New York, 2006). 222 pp. $22.95.

Reviewed by Dustin Downing | Special to Mana‘olana

In his book, “Perfectly Yourself,” Matthew Kelly shows us how to be content with our imperfections, at peace with the person God created us to be. He calls us “perfectly imperfect.” It is out of these imperfections that we learn to embrace failures, not as roadblocks, but as stimulants to succeed. A prerequisite to success, however, is self-discipline. Kelly encourages us to master our desires through self-denial.

“The body is like money; a horrible master, but an excellent servant,” he says.

Our primary purpose in life, says Kelly, is to become the “best-version-of-ourselves,” by living a life of virtue and searching for our true mission.

He says, “I believe that our missions have been designed to correspond with our deepest desires and our unique talents. Mission is where our talents and passions meet the needs of the world.”

Kelly encourages his readers to “just do the next right thing,” and not to look to the future or the past, but to seize the present as a gift. Finally, he emphasizes the importance of prayer and spending time each day in the “classroom of silence.”

I found the book helpful. I am confident that by just facing each decision as it comes, I will have much more peace in my life. Working in a ministry setting for the last year and a half, I have come to realize that daily prayer is essential, for I cannot give what I do not have. Furthermore, I know that my mission in life will only be revealed to me as much as I listen to God, and put into action the talents he has given me.

I would recommend this book to all who search for purpose and meaning in their lives, looking for a refreshing read. Youth and adults alike would benefit from Kelly’s words about pursuing your passion, regardless of the cost.