cover image The Problem Was Me: A Guide to Self-Awareness, Compassion, and Awareness

The Problem Was Me: A Guide to Self-Awareness, Compassion, and Awareness

Thomas Gagliano with Abraham J. Twerski, MD. Gentle Path Press, $16.95 (151p) ISBN 978-0-9826505-9-2

In his book, businessman and recovery community leader Gagliano presents a method of stopping the negative thoughts and self-destructive behaviors that might appeal to sufferers of substance abuse and poor impulse control. Gagliano, who is not a licensed therapist, uses insights (quotations rather than dia-logue) from Twerski to gain a professional opinion of the methods he presents. Gagliano calls his negative voice "the warden" and shares how it impacted his adult life. He presents the idea, backed by a quote from Twerski, that these voices stem from negative messages received during childhood. Twerski's quotes are not always a perfect fit with Gagliano's own content. He illustrates his theories with traumatic childhood anecdotes, some from people identified as his clients. In addition, Gagliano repeats ideas or issues commands, such as in "Chapter Eight: ACTION!" where he assets that "people with very destructive behaviors have a more compelling need to rely on the power of the group." However, the section on how to conduct a written inventory gives readers a tangible tool to move toward recovery. The book provides a hopeful message on how parents can help their children avoid these pitfalls and how readers can in-clude forgiveness and a spiritual power in their lives. (July)