"Mark Nepo is one of our most gifted poets, essayists, and spiritual guides. His vulnerable, hopeful and beautifully-written books have made him feel like a soul friend to millions who’ve never met him. As one who’s had the privilege of a long-time friendship with Mark, I can attest that friendship is not just another topic for him: it’s the fabric of his life, a fabric of mutual support and blessing with people near and far. Now he’s written a book that will help us deepen the friendships on which we depend. Amid the challenges of being fully human in our era, how reassuring to be reminded that we don’t have to do it alone!"
- Parker J. Palmer, author of On the Brink of Everything, Let Your Life Speak, and Healing the Heart of Democracy
"What an exquisite act of friendship this beautiful book is. It is also 'medicine in words,' to quote the author, offering the most hesitant among us ways to welcome the appreciation and authenticity that are friendship’s most enduring gifts."
- Stephanie Dowrick, PhD., author of Seeking the Sacred: Transforming Our View of Ourselves and One Another
"In this eloquent, essential compendium of friendship, Mark Nepo offers a roadmap to platonic intimacy in an age of increasing loneliness. Full of heartrending stories, timeless wisdom, and hard-won insights from the author himself, You Don't Have to Do It Alone reminds us that friendship is a noble endeavor - 'the vocation of seeking truth together' – that deepens the soul and enriches our lives immeasurably. I loved it."
- Mark Matousek, author of Lessons from an American Stoic: How Emerson Can Change Your Life
"I would not be the poet or human being I am without the daily friendship of Mark Nepo’s healing words. Every one of his books has become a companion on the journey, his teachings drawn from the deeper well of his own hard-won wisdom. I will read You Don’t Have to Do It Alone again and again, each time I need to remember the “inlets of care” in which we discover “the depth of who we truly are.” Savor this new book in the morning before your day begins, or at night before sleep, and see how connection and wonder will open your heart, and fill it to the brim."
- James Crews, author of Unlocking the Heart: Writing for Mindfulness, Creativity, and Self-Compassion
"As one of the world’s preeminent spiritual guides, Mark Nepo illuminates the nuanced facets of friendship, offering us a window into the mysterious goodness, profound truth, and exquisite beauty that can be found within these life-giving relationships. Engaging in his work is a gentle reminder of all that is meaningful."
- Ashton Gustafson, host of Good/True/& Beautiful Podcast
"Mark’s book is a brilliant invitation to cozy in on a couch with soft slippers surrounded by friends as together you discuss love, friendship, and community. His gentle approach to asking one to contemplate a new idea is powerful and filled with love. Read this one for your soul."
- Rev. Dr. Michelle Wadleigh, author of Shadow Work: A Spiritual Path to Healing and Integration