Happiness Becomes You

November 16, 2020
Legendary singer Turner (My Love Story) shares her spiritual life in this simple yet affecting memoir. “I sincerely believe that you can change anything for good by weaving an awareness of your inherent Buddha nature into the fabric of your daily life,” she writes. A practicing Buddhist, Turner details how her involvement with Sokka Gakkai International, an international network of Nichiren Buddhists, changed her life—and name-drops a few famous friends involved along the way, such as jazz legends Herbie Hancock and Wayne Shorter, whom Turner leaned on and even performed Buddhist chants with during times of stress. Turner also expounds on personal tragedies she has endured, including recent serious health problems (a stroke, intestinal cancer, and liver failure) and the loss of her eldest son to suicide in 2018, and how she pulled herself out of darkness through her devotion to the teachings of Nichiren, a 13th-century Japanese philosopher. Along the way, Turner’s tales coalesce into an uncomplicated manual (with a peppering of inspiration quotes and a useful glossary) for practicing her particular method of finding peace. Music fans and spiritualists alike will find much to appreciate in this revealing work.

Starred review from December 1, 2020
Most readers probably know that Turner is an international rock star, an acclaimed actress, and a fashion icon. What they may not know is that she embraced Buddhism almost 50 years ago, and that she has used Buddhist principles to guide her throughout her adult life. This is a quasi-biography wrapped around an exploration of Buddhism, with roughly equal emphasis on personal anecdotes and devotional practices. Turner tells how she first developed an interest in chanting, which led to further exploration of Buddhist teachings. The text is interesting and easy to read, and accessible explanations of Buddhist principles are neatly integrated into the narrative. Short, uplifting quotes from various luminaries (Pearl Bailey, Jane Fonda, Lorraine Hansberry) are scattered throughout the brief chapters, and there are plenty of celebrity guest appearances (Cher, Herbie Hancock, David Bowie). There are also QR codes to take readers to devotional videos and music tracks. The book ends with a conversation between Turner's co-authors (both practicing Buddhists), a glossary, and bibliography. All together this is a lovely little book, a bit of inspiration during these turbulent times. Women in Focus: The 19th in 2020

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