Know Thyself: Books That Changed Me

In this Know Thyself installment, Carmen explores the books that have shaped her inner life - not to recommend or sell them, but to show how rereading meaningful works can reveal identity, perspective, and joy. She reflects on the intimacy of physical books, the value of reading slowly (especially with aphantasia), and the grounding effect of returning to stories that stay with us.Carmen discusses four works that continue to influence her: Paulo Coelho’s The Alchemist and its reminder that courage and the journey matter more than the treasure; Kahlil Gibran’s The Prophet, a lyrical collection she revisits by topic to reframe life with clarity and compassion; Rainer Maria Rilke’s Letters to a Young Poet, which affirms that creative identity comes from within, not from fame or validation; and Maya Angelou’s Complete Collected Poems, a source of strength, dignity, and the conviction that one’s voice matters.She invites listeners to revisit the books, films, or music that resonate with them, reflect on why those choices endure, and consider what they reveal about self‑knowledge and joy.Thank you for stopping by.  Please visit our website: All About The Joy and add, like and share.  You can now watch the livestream version of the show on YouTube at @CarmenLezeth You can also support AATJ by shopping at our STORE - Or by and buying us a coffee. We'd appreciate that greatly.  Also, if you want to find us anywhere on social media, please check out the link in bio page. Music By Geovane Bruno, Moments, 3481Editing by Team A-JHost, Carmen Lezeth DISCLAIMER:  As always, please do your own research and understand that the opinions in this podcast and livestream are meant for entertainment purposes only. States and other areas may have different rules and regulations governing certain aspects discussed in this podcast.  Nothing in our podcast or livestream is meant to be medical or legal advice. Please use common sense, and when in doubt, ask a professional for advice, assistance, help and guidance.