Tammy and Ed Sloan have been married for over two decades when they suddenly discover themselves on opposite sides of a current social issue -- gay rights. Soon, they are horrified to discover that their differences run much deeper. the Door of the Heart is a story of being true to oneself, of marriage and commitment, and of individual responses to change; but in a broader sense, it is a story about how polarization limits the emotional and spiritual growth of individuals and destroys every aspect of community.

The whole world has fallen in love with this international bestseller - hundreds of thousands of copies have been sold across 25 countries. Now it's Australia's turn to rediscover this jewel of a book on mindfulness. In times of uncertainty, words of comfort are essential, and the stunning overseas sales of this title are testament to its universal appeal. These modern tales of hope, forgiveness, freedom from fear and overcoming pain cleverly relate the timeless wisdom of the Buddha's teachings and the path to true happiness in a warm and accessible way. Ajahn Brahm was born and raised in the West and in his more than thirty years as a Buddhist monk he has gathered many poignant, funny and profound stories. He has tremendous ability to filter these stories through the Buddha's teaching so that they can have meaning for all sorts of readers. There are many thousands of Australians who don't even know that they need this book yet, but who will no doubt embrace it just as overseas readers have. It is the perfect gift book as there is truly something in it for everyone. 'Ajahn Brahm is the Seinfeld of Buddhism' - Sumi Loundon, editor of Blue Jean Buddha: Voices of Young Buddhists and The Buddha's Apprentices

The Door of the Heart By Diana Finfrock Farrar Tammy is the wife of Ed Sloan, a prominent figure in the Texas political scene who is struggling over the fallout of the bullying of gay student Jamie ODell, which also involved Sloans son. The issue sends shockwaves through the lives of Ed and his colleagues, friends, and family, especially Tammy, who begins to consider gay rights from a new angle. The author follows Tammys journey as the once-dutiful wife and mother opens her heart to Jamies mother and slowly stands up against anti-gay views, both at home and in public. This book brings gay issues home and depicts the mental and emotional work people must do to change their views and accept each other. The story is rooted in faith from a range of perspectives, showing how Christianity can both harden and open peoples hearts. Although a work of fiction, this novel is based upon true stories and current events, and endnotes throughout the text and a list of LGBT resources shine a light on the book for the educational tool that it can be. But Farrars openhearted willingness to be gentle to her characters is sure to make the book appealing to a broad audience, especially to people of faith struggling to understand the intersection between LGBT issues and their beliefs. This novel explores faith, gay issues, and standing up for what is right. It is an emotional and open-minded read for everyone.

More than ten million readers have enjoyed Robert Boyd Munger's spiritually challenging meditation on Christian discipleship. Now revised and expanded, My Heart--Christ's Home leads you to examine for yourself all the aspects of your life--considering what Christ most desires for you.

Closing the Door for the First Time... I shut the door, fell on my knees and cried out to God for strength. I can't remember how long I cried, and I wasn't sure where Travis would go. My parents told me that I really didn't love my son, that I was a horrible mother. Even my best friend said, "How could you do that to him?" I knew God's Word was true and that He would come through for me and my family. I wanted my son to know that God would be there for him. Travis needed to depend on God completely. But for now my tears fell - my heart was broken over my son, who still continued using his drugs. I would have to close the door on my son, but not my heart. Closing the Door, but not my Heart, is a compelling story of tough love and abounding grace that will stir both your heart and your faith to believe anything is possible with God. If you've ever had to hope against hope for your loved one, this book is the encouragement you need!

The authors write that parents need to invite their children to participate in relationships. In this book Trevathan and Goff use examples from their counseling practice and time-proven principles to show how true and lasting connections with adolescents are forged. (July)

The heart of Jesus is sacred, and the lessons and examples it provides to us are paramount in our daily mission to follow in His footsteps. Max Lucado poses the question "what if, for one day and night, your heart was replaced by the heart of Christ?" That thought-provoking question leads to many personal revelations demonstrating that we can recast our hearts to be more like that of Jesus, and the blessings created by the transformation will unleash ripples to the widest edges of our lives and those around us.