5 comments about Spiritual Psychology: The Twelve Primary Life Lessons.

1. If you are reading this book and others like it, you have been a seeker of truth for a long time. It is the third in line from the authors "Re-Membering and "Welcome Home" and should be read in that order. Everyone should be able to recognize themselves on one or more of the outlined "paths". Because we are the planet of free choice, we may also have blind spots as to what our path is. Excellent insight and worth sharing with family and friends.



2. When Steve Rother writes a book it is clear in its meaning even if you have never read his books, if you pick one up you will want to read more. This one is so clear why people are all learning life lessons and gives you an understanding how people react in all aspects of their lives. It explains why people are who they are, and their reactions at different times. I now can have more compassion for the reactions of all people because it makes more sense why they follow a certain path, we are all mastering or trying to master our life lessons. Please read this book for it opens a whole new world for you. Excellent.



3. I absolutely LOVE this book. It makes sense and explains so much of what is "beneath the surface". To read and understand how we make our contracts, our decisions, and choose our life lessons gives us the benefit of divine perspective that we may otherwise not be able to understand. When I read about my own life lesson it resonated on a level that I can not even explain in words. Suddenly everything made sense.
   I had read another of Steve's books and picked up Spiritual Psychology a few years ago. I was anxious to read it, but everytime I could only get into about 10-15 pages and then I would stop. About two months later, I picked it up again, this time hoping to fall asleep reading. Instead of going to sleep I ended up reading the entire book cover to cover. I have never gotten so caught up in a book that I've spent 7 hours straight reading it. All I can say is WOW!!!
   If you're looking for a perspective of why you're here, why you've chosen the people in your life and how you can work through your lessons - this is the book for you!!!



4. A wonderful resource for anyone trying to understand the lessons they came here to learn.
   -Robert Schwartz, author of Courageous Souls: Do We Plan Our Life Challenges Before Birth?



5. I have read all of Steve Rother's books. This book is a basic reader for beginners to spiritual concepts, but it is interesting for more enlightened readers as well. Steve Rother channels about complex spiritual ideas, but the choice of words is such that the concepts are easily understood by everyone. I have been on a spiritual path for many years, and I think this book is top notch. The tone of the book is opimistic and provides useful ideas and suggestions to heighten spirit awareness. I have given this to others who felt the same way. Although the editor should have done a little better job to eliminate some typos in the book, I still had to give a rating of five stars for the content.

5 comments about The Prophet's Way: A Guide to Living in the Now.

1. This book will be a welcome sojourn for those dealing with any disillusion over religious systems. Hartmann's spiritual journey has been as unique as anyone's, and thinking believers will find abundant encouragement here relating to their doubts and struggles.
   
   This is the same Thom Hartmann who has recently written extensively about democracy and the threats to it. We learn in this book that it's his spiritual journey that's brought him to the study. I first read "Last Hours of Ancient Sunlight," then "Unequal Protection," and this present book is the most refreshing and reassuring of all of them, as well as bringing together issues about the world in a spiritual context.
   
   I'm now struggling with how spiritual growth and social action are related, and this read has helped. I've been working to integrate insights from John Perkins, Daniel Quinn, James Howard Kunstler, David C. Korten, and others into a worldview that makes sense of the question, "So now what?"
   
   Hartmann's "Prophet's Way" has brought me back to the issues basic to all such decisions and helped sort through the others. The way of peace and brotherhood is infinitely more than a stock phrase. It's a way of life that we can, one by one, step into with full confidence that millions taking such a step will transform the world.



2. i ordered the book the prophet's way for a friend in prison. he got the book with no problem. its a wonderful book and i would recommend it to everyone. i love amazon and have ordered lots of books for friends through them. i have never had a problem using this service. The Prophet's Way: A Guide to Living in the Now



3. The humble author takes the readers for a wonderful journey into spirituality and enlightenment. The gist of the book is that small acts to mercy can and do change the world. Even a seemingly insignificant change as picking up a lost earthworm in wee hours of the morning so that it does not get trampled upon later during the day, can ignite a spark and change the world for good. My life has been forever touched and my spiritual eyes have been opened. I have moved over to the other side, so as to speak, the side of more spiritual and less material. Two other unforgettable books by Mr Hartmann, The Last Hours of Ancient Sunlight and Unequal Protection. Get them, read them, distribute among friends and loved ones.



4. The Prophet's Way is a first class spiritual journey, but one in which Thom Hartmann doesn't always provide you with a clean, comfy, air-conditioned cabin. You'll be taken on treks through southern India, South America, and Jerusalem. Be prepared to hang onto your seat.
   
   The rest of the book is an engaging story of his spiritual journey with his teachers and mentors. Be prepared for this book to lift you up to where you can get a very clear view of what the Kingdom of Heaven means.



5. There were times in the beginning when I was skeptical, looking for proof, but as I went on, something clicked. There's no way to "prove" if he's being honest, but I don't think that's the intention, since I've read it, I've been noticing that things aren't always a coincidencethings that happened which would take too long to explain here. His theories and stories have changed my everyday life.
   
   It's definitely not a book for everyone, but if you want to be open to god, I think it will open your awareness. If nothing else, its definitely interesting

5 comments about Hiring the Heavens: A Practical Guide to Developing Working Relationships with the Spirits of Creation.

1. Being a person who thinks I have to control everything, I found this book a huge relief of that pressure. The concepts in the book are simple, easy to use and fun. I've told lots of friends about this book and they continue to thank me as they are finding this concept life changing like I am.



2. I listened to Jean Slatter talk at the American Society of Dowsers annual convention. Then I bought her book "Hiring the Heavens". After two years plus of putting her guide to work I am well on my way to achieving my goals. I highly recommend this book. Jean Slatter's system has put me on the right path, allowing me to "retire" and work for myself.



3. Using your guides, angels or Spirit Guides to support you in your personal transformation and your life. Great tools! You're not alone and you have all the helpers of heaven especially after reading this book.



4. Wow! Wow! Wow! From the moment I picked up Hiring the Heavens, I knew this book was exactly what I had needed. I have been a student of the Law of Attraction for many years. However, my truest desires seemed to elude me. I spent a great deal of time thinking "What is wrong with me?".
   
   After reading Hiring the Heavens, my life has been completely transformed in every area of my life, including my business, my relationships and my level of prosperity. I loved the simple and powerful principles in this book that I tell everyone about it. It is a must read!



5. This is a very creatively written book by I am for certain a very creative author. I enjoyed reading this book especially because it helps remind one that spiritually there is always help for one in the spiritual realms. This is a very creative and enlightening book on connecting to the spiritual/celestial realms for help and using your imagination to hire the celestial helpers for your everyday concerns to tap into the universal energy for assistance. It is a very brief but informative and entertaining read. Admittedly I was also persuaded by Janet's positive review of the book (thank you Janet) and am glad to have purchased it. I would definitely have to agree that this is a practical guide to developing working relationships with the spirits of creation and it gives interesting ideas on names to give for committees that you would hire based on concerns and holding "meetings" regarding the help you need. I personally have used some of the suggestions in this book and it has helped make my life easier. Definitely consider this guide if you are in the process of deciding.

5 comments about Practicing Peace in Times of War.

1. The book concept is great. But in actuality, trying to apply this is really hard. If each one of us could wait to respond to provoking situations, and really think about how to respond in a kind and compassionate, non-provoking manner, and then teach our children, friends and family the same method, wow! what potential for peace! The book is very short and easy to read. I would like to have the author narrate how in specific situations this actually works. She does,but personally I need more help than this small book to really catch on. I will probably look into another book by this author in hopes of finding more on this subject.



2. Choderon's books keep getting shorter and clearer. Here she gives a little classic of straight-talking compassion. In a world obsessed with finding security she speaks of living with "positive insecurity". In a simple, honest way she demonstrates how to culivate our own peace step by step, and why it matters so much:
   
   "If we arn't training inch by inch, one moment at a time, in overcoming our fear of pain, then we'll be very limited in how much we can help. We'll be limited in helping ourselves, and limited in helping anyone else. So, let's start with ourselves just as we are, here and now." (p. 78)



3. Love this tiny book, which fits in my purse. I can refer to it when I'm running errands. I am becoming aware of how powerful my ego is. I am "awakening" slowly and it helps me get my head around this ego issue and how detramental ego is to me, personally.



4. This is not a long read, but it takes time to go through it.
   
   In a veryto-the-point manner, Chodron explains how the seeds of peace and war start with the individual reaction to life situations. We have the choice to effect others by our reaction to potentially violent situations. We can choose to get angry when someone cuts off off, or we can continue on our way. Like the inmate in San Quentin, we can take out our frustrations on a sea gull blown in by a storm or we can tell the crowd to back off because "the bird has my wings."
   
   For therapists who use cognitive behavior therephy, the third chapter is the best description of how to engage cognitive thinking when faced with a situation which can trigger a patterned response.
   
   A book that will linger with you long after reading. Get 2 copies. You will want to pass it along to a friend. Once you do, it will be sent out never to return!



5. This is a companion book for those who want to deal with adversity and anger in their lives in a different way. It is personal, practical, humorous, down-to-earth. For personal reading and thought or group study. Pema Chodron gives us a way to love ourselves just as we are AND practices to make changes we need to make.

5 comments about The Places That Scare You: A Guide to Fearlessness in Difficult Times.

1. Pema Chrodon's work is, as always is an insightful read about human nature and emotions and how we come to term with those emotions. I found the focus on the bodhichitta and the different sayings fascinating as well as enjoying further revelations about Buddhist beliefs and spirituality. All of what she writes is applicable to living life and facing the fears any of us could face.
   
   The only reason this is a four instead of a five is because you can find a lot of what she writes in here, in her other works. It still makes for good reading, but reading one of her works seems to get to heart of all of her writing.



2. I loved this book -- it's practical and prescriptive. I applied her advice into both my personal and professional life. Next steps -- I will read her entire collection.



3. I love listening to this tape. I put it on and start it over again when it is done. I find it totally inspiring to listen to the writing of this wise Buddhist monk.
   My only criticism is that the woman who reads the book (beautiful voice, by the way). She pronounces the word "strength" omitting the 'g' sound. This was horribly annoying to me. I grew up pronouncing the 'g' and it sounds prissy and pompous to omit the 'g' sound.



4. There is something repellant, even repulsive, about the religious mind. We cannot escape the world, however much we dislike it: it is a violent, often ugly place, dominated by the stupid; and however far we flee from it, these unpleasantries inevitably find us out, we cannot run far enough or fast enough. Show me your attachment to the beautiful and the good, indeed, show me your love of peace, and I will show you beauty adulterated and good compromised; and I will expose your peace as a forgery that hides your hatred of life. The religious mind, when it perceives this contradictory and chaotic quality of existence, sees in it an opportunity to perform a trick of ethical magic. If one is good, if one is clarified, if one is just in every action, if one will only turn the other cheek, behold, nothing will ever die, pain will cease, and the horrible will be rectified. Alas, good friends, the truth is quite otherwise: he who turns his cheek is beaten and crucified. And he who cries for justice, will weep in earnest by way of reckoning.
   
   It is the weak who fear the strong; it is the good who inspire in others evil. In this world one either eats or is eaten, and no amount of sympathy, pity, or compassion will adulterate the predatory core of being itself. And books like this are authored by charlatains, who try to take away your fear by denying the necessity for it.
   
   I give you two instances of this religious magic: Ms. Chodron informs us of an elderly couple living in a gated community in Florida. They fear the violence resulting from poverty of circumstances surrounding them. Ms. Chodron implies that it is the elders who are at fault for the fear they experience, that they must open their arms to the terror around them, that they must become as nothing and embrace the thing they fear. What do they fear? Besides murder? The loss of their culture. The compromise of the quality of their life. Ms. Chodron does not seem to comprehend that pistol shots are exchanged on the freeways in southern Florida; that interracial violence and cross-cultural warfare has come to visit us in our homeland, and that southern Florida is one of its battlegrounds--and even if she does, she has no answer for it, except to say, we should submit to it. Peace is submission. I say that piety like this is suicide: piety does not, can not, will not, nor ever shall bring us peace, except the peace of the grave.
   
   She likewise quotes with great approval Einstein, who faults us all for our consciousness--which, he describes as cut off, selfish, lacking understanding, and unwilling to embrace "the whole of nature". Einstein, good folk, was paid handsomely for his consultations on the development of Atomic Weapons. So much for embracing the "whole of nature" and its fundamental goodness. Saint Einstein, and his good work, the annihilation of millions, and the development of weapons with which his employers can further dominate our lives. So much for Ms. Chodron. She is either stupid or malicious, neither of which is very good for you.
   
   tlt



5. In a nutshell, if you don't want to bring awareness to the places in yourself you avoid and would rather not deal with awakening, do not listen to or read this book.
   
   If you are interested in a brilliantly written perspective on compassionate spiritual awakening, then by all means get it and listen or read it over and over. We are so blessed to live in a time where we have teachers like Pema Chodron to give us instruction on how to bring awareness to our habitual thinking that keep us stuck. Yes, it can be frightening to look within with such scrutiny, but Pema reminds us that we can intend to begin our inquiry from a compassionate and accepting place.Self condemnation for what we find in ourselves is a trap and another mental agonizer.
   
   I have seemed to be addicted to drama and unhappiness all my life.
   I have been on a spiritual and personal growth path for 20 years.
   The longer I live the more I realize that my own thinking keeps driving me to dead ends of pain and suffering. I am at a point where the only thing left to do is surrender my mind as best as I can. Thankfully, I have teachers like Pema to light the way a bit for me.

5 comments about Chicken Soup for the Veteran's Soul: Stories to Stir the Pride and Honor the Courage of Our Veterans.

1. A truly wonderful book with numerous short tales about veterans.
   Perhaps I am prejudiced, being a retired USN radioman. These
   stories will uplift your spirits tremendously. Reading of the
   selfless actions of veterans throughout our nations history may
   add a new dimension to your life. What impressed me besides the
   shear joy of reading these stories is that each and every one
   was new to me. I suggest you keep some tissues nearby, this book
   will truly tug on your emotions. I've sent this book to 3 others
   so far. There's a huge series of Chicken Soup books. They all seem
   to be written with the same care as this one.
   
   
   UPDATE:
   
   At the start of 2007 I had one of those V8 moments and decided to start a mission for myself. It would be pretty
   easy. Simply it is to hand out a copy of this marvelous book to any veterans I might run across. Just a simple
   "thank you for your service" gift. I carry three in my car's glove box. I usually order 10 at a time here. So far I've handed out 50 copies. I really get into this! I was beside a guy in a truck at a red light with a VietNam decal on the bumper. I yelled over and asked if it was his. When he nodded yes I asked him to pull over I wanted to give him something. He pulled into an animal vet parking lot. Give him one, he had been in the USAF. I typed up a short note and staple them inside the cover telling a little about my service and what my mission was. Now that I have blown my own horn way too much I would like to toss out an idea. How about doing a similar thing where you live? You meet the greatest folks and feel super when you've handed another one out.
   
   Best Regards



2. This book was given to me by a good friend. He thought I, as a Vietnam vet, would identify with some of the stories. It is one of the absolutely most enjoyable books I have ever read. I even slowed down my usual reading speed to savor the stories . Each day, in the sunshine of my patio, I read two or three stories. Every story got my full attention. I even found one story about a man I knew in the army. I adamently recommend this book to any veteran.



3. This book was sent to me from a dear friend and I love this book so much. I think all Veterans will love it and heck anyone should. It is a book I will cherish always!



4. If you never really appreciated a veteran, you definitely will after reading this book. This book has so many wonderful true stories about American veterans. Some of us never realize what they have to go through. I loved the whole book - it's hard for me to say which stories were my favorites.



5. This book is full of short stories by veteranns about veterans. I must recommend this book for anyone that has any affiliation to a veteran, simply the best, short stores from all wars and conflicts that will cause you to swell up with love and pride. This is a quick read and a must read, it certainly gave me pride to have worn the uniform. Mike - Des Moines, Iowa

3 comments about Living Fearlessly: Bringing Out Your Inner Soul Strength (How-to-Live Series) (How-to-Live Series).

1. The editors at Self-Realization Fellowship have again produced a beautifully inspiring and motivating volume, drawing on some of the great yoga master's inimitable expressions of eternal truth. Drawing partly from talks published elsewhere (e.g., Man's Eternal Quest and The Divine Romance), this volume also includes life-empowering quotes that would otherwise have to be culled from the years of Yogananda's Self-Realization Lessons - plus a couple of other essays not elsewhere in print. In the latter category is a brilliant piece on faith, fearlessness, and the uprooting of unconscious fears.
   In times of tremendous uncertainty and world-upheaval the reassurance offered by such pieces as "Ridding the Consciousness of Worry" and "Removing the Static of Fear" are real treasures. It is exquisitely comforting to read how Yogananda himself handled threats of economic disaster in "Finding Inner Assurance that God Is With You" - one more demonstration that he does not speak from abstract theory but from principles that he has tested and proven in his own life. He never tells you that it will be easy - only that the power of attunement with your soul will lead you to VICTORY over the most difficult challenges. His life and those of his advanced students are testimony to that truth.
   Seldom has a tiny volume combined so effectively the most advanced concepts of psychology with the most divine insights into the power of faith. This is destined to become another classic of PRACTICAL SPIRITUALITY - perhaps rivaled only by his AUTOBIOGRAPHY OF A YOGI (ISBN 0876120834 ) and THE LAW OF SUCCESS (ISBN 0876121504 )



2. The Divine words of Paramahansa Yogananda delivers the one message that will set you free from fear and its debilitating effects in your life. That message is to recognize and connect fully to your divine source, to God, and how this omniscient presence is within you, at all times. It is within your heart and soul.
   By focusing on how Divine Source is with you, in you, and as you at all times, you will come to discover that you are never alone.

   A wonderful message is that fear is humankind's greatest enemy. By renewing your MIND, and focusing on your Divine heritage, you will come to trust that God is on your side. You will learn through this book that your circumstances are to draw you closer to your connection to Divine Source, so that you can follow your inner guidance, take proactive action in your life, and cast out fear completely.
   In this way you will come to know the immense Divine creative power you do have, and how circumstances are merely passing occurrences. You, however, are eternal. Your creative capacity comes from your Divine connection to the greatest power in this Universe, and that is Love.

   HIGHLY recommended if fear has been in your life, preventing you from claiming every Divine gift and experience you deserve. This book will help you cast out fear forever.

   From my Heart, Barbara Rose, author of: `If God Was Like Man' and `Individual Power'. Borntoinspire.com




3. The basis of Yogananda's book is weakness and perhaps fears. The book consists of Yogananda quotations thematically arranged, and much revolves around fear and worry.
   
   "May I Overcome Fear", "Practical Anecdotes for Fear and Worry", "Ridding the Consciousness of Worry" and focus on fearlessness reveals that fear and worries make a book market.
   
   Now in the case of neurotic fears and worries, therapy might help.
   A realistic appraisal of things feared and worried about, can help too.
   However, a blunt denial of fear and worry and of their possibly reasonable foundations, may do more harm than good. There is that danger with shortsighted "kindergarten books" in the school of life.

5 comments about 50 Spiritual Classics: Timeless Wisdom from 50 Great Books on Inner Discovery, Enlightenment and Purpose.

1. Butler-Bowdon is my guide through the literature of inner -development. His books have helped me grow as an individual and continue to help in my research for the books I choose to write to help humanity. His knowledge is exceptional and his choice of books is perfect. He truly is an expert in this area. I recommend his entire series and genuinely cant wait to get Psychology Classics. Thanks for helping humanity with your writing Mr. Butler-Bowdon.
   
   10 stars
   
   Author, Your Daily Walk with the Great Minds and Upcoming Release of Eastern Wisdom for Your Soul.



2. 50 Self-Help Classics: 50 Inspirational Books to Transform Your Life, From Timeless Sages to Contemporary Gurus
   50 Success Classics: Winning Wisdom for Life and Work from 50 Landmark Books
   50 Spiritual Classics: Timeless Wisdom from 50 Great Books on Inner Discovery, Enlightenment and Purpose
   
   In the first instance, I have bought these three books in one go because I have been fascinated by what the author had done: He has practised what is known as the highest level of reading. Mortimer Adler, in his classic book, 'How to Read a Book', written in the forties, had called it 'syntopical reading'. It's actually reading a number of books of the same genre, more or less simultaneously & then synthesising the key points.
   
   Secondly, the author, who is a graduate of the London School of Economics, somehow impresses me with his ability to synthesise the big picture of each of the books that made up the entire collection. For apparently a left-brain thinker i.e. economist by training, this has been a very remarkable feat, as his synthesising endeavour has been essentially more of a right-brain activity. Well, I must compliment him for a job well done.
   
   Before my final decision on buying the three books, I have been thrilled by the prospect of reading three books, which in turn will give me access to one hundred & fifty books.
   
   For each book, the author has very artfully as well as skillfully selected fifty books to made up one collection. I may not agree with his selection, but I must admit that I can't default him at all.
   
   Take the first book, '50 Self Help Classics', with timeless wisdom, as an example. Out of the fifty books he has selected, I have read only seventeen of them. I have those books in my personal library.
   
   For the second book, '50 Success Classics', I have read & still own sixteen of the landmark books on winning wisdom selected by the author.
   
   For the third & final book, '50 Spiritual Classics', covering timeless sages & contemporary gurus, I have read only & still own three of them, namely 'The Tao of Physics', 'The Way of the Peaceful Warrior' & 'Zen & the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance'.
   
   For those books I have read previously, totaling thirty-six of them (probably stretching over three decades of my life), & upon revisiting them again in the trilogy, which actually took me one whole weekend to complete, starting on Friday evening & finishing on Sunday night, I must say that the seemingly marathon reading experience has been very refreshing & uplifting. It has also given me the opportunity to check & verify whether the author has captured the key ideas or essence of those books. I don't think I can find fault with the author in this respect.
   
   Not only that, in the first book, I am very impressed that the author has cut through the bewildering array of choices to bring the essential ideas, insights, and techniques from the `literature of possibilities'. In works that span the world's religions, cultures, philosophies, & centuries, he summarizes each work's key ideas & finally makes clear how these legendary classics can educate, affirm, & motivate anyone searching for the inspiration to make a meaningful life change.
   
   In the second book, the author is back with his wide-ranging collection of enduring works from pioneering thinkers, philosophers, & powerful leaders, like Napoleon Hill, Stephen Covey, Kenneth Blanchard, Baltasar Gracian & Christopher Maurer; from the inspirational rags to riches stories of such entrepreneurs, like Andrew Carnegie, Warren Buffet & Sam Walton to the leadership lessons of Sir Ernest Shackleton, Eleanor Roosevelt, Abraham Lincoln & Nelson Mandela, just to name a few.
   
   In the third book, I believe the author has captured the very best in spiritual writing: They include personal diaries & compelling biographies of such diverse figures as Gandhi, Malcolm X, & Black Elk & Eastern philosophers & gurus including Krishnamurti, Yogananda, Chögyam Trungpa & Suzuki; & Western saints & mystics such as St. Francis of Assisi, Herman Hesse & Simone Weil. For each book in this volume, the author offers insightful commentary on how these classics can help spiritual seekers everywhere bring personal beliefs, values & practices squarely into the center of their every day lives.
   
   Reading the three foregoing books has been quite a breeze because the meaning of each work is initially captured 'in a nut shell' at the onset, coupled with a representative quote as well as cross-referencing to similar work. In each work, appropriate sectional headings in bold print make it really easy for the reader to follow the author's train of thoughts over some six pages. There is also a short biographical sketch of the author of the respective work.
   
   I must admit that the third book in the trilogy has been the most challenging for me to read as I normally do not go for such stuff. To put it bluntly, it's not my cup of tea. On the other hand, the curiosity streak in me has been too overwhelming, since I relish the thought that I could read fifty spiritual classics in just one book!
   
   Overall, & for all those books I have not yet read at all (some of which I have not even heard of), I really enjoyed digesting the author's bite-sized summaries (in actuality, they are only the main ideas, context & impact of each title, to give a taste of the literature, so to speak) in the three collections or volumes, even though some of the titles are relatively esoteric for me. The entire reading journey has been enlightening, inspirational & yet humbling in some areas. Best of all, there are useful tools & practical techniques to take away from each collection!
   
   For the first & last book in the trilogy, namely, '50 Self Help Classics' & '50 Spirtual Classics', the author has respectively provide a list of additional 50 books. The titles are certainly enticing! Well, all I can say is this: I wish the author will repeat his syntopical reading exercise covering these books & add two more volumes, that will make a quintulogy, for all the readers out there, including me!
   
   As usual, all my three books are now scribbled with my own hand-written marginal annotations as well as my fancy colour marker symbols. Additionally, there are also colourful sticky notes in between selected pages. My next personal assignment is to transfer all these notations into mindmaps with Mindmanager Pro.
   
   To end my review, I have one last humble comment to make. Out of the one hundred & fifty bite-sized summaries, I still don't quite get it from 'The Bhagavad-Gita' as outlined in the author's '50 Self Help Classics'. I have not read this work before although I have heard about it. [J Y Pillay, former Chairman of Singapore Airlines, who is credited for building the airline to what it is today, A Great Way to Fly, has vouched for this ancient Hindu scripture as an inspiration for his leadership success during an interview.] However, in the same vein, I found that I could relate quickly to Deepak Chopra's 'The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success' but simply not this one! I may have to explore other avenue.
   
   In site of the above minor short-coming, I strongly believe that the three books in the author's trilogy are really an intellectual treasure!



3. My review can be summarized with the simple statement that this is BY FAR the best book I've ever read so far in the genres of spirituality, philosophy, and religion, and in fact in any genre. It provides truly meaningful exposure to a diverse kaliedoscope of spiritual viewpoints which, for the most part, I find to be complementary and reinforcing, rather than contradictory and conflicting.
   
   The result for me has been profoundly tranformative, and I think that will be the case for many others who read the book, provided that they do so with an open mind. For those who are diehard skeptics or dogmatists, perhaps this book will even open many of their minds.
   
   I'm eagerly looking forward to reading many of the books summarized in this book, as well as the three other books in the "50 Classics" series written by the author.
   
   In short, I can't recommend this book strongly enough, and it's no accident that all of the prior reviewers gave it 5 stars. I've given copies of this book to quite a few people, which is something I've never done before with any other book.
   
   Let me say it in another way: if you were stranded on an island and could have only one book, this would be the one to have.



4. If you are expecting a traditional viewpoint with this book, you will not get it in reading "50 Spiritual Classics". It is heavily weighted toward Eastern religion and philosophical thought, which is fine, but it is definitely not balanced. He prefaces his review of the Christian works he presents as being "too Christian" for some. If you are into "political correctness" then this book is for you.



5. This is a great book to start thinking and re-thinking juicy spiritual concepts. I love the format - short and sweet. It's a great conversation vehicle for couples, groups, etc.
   
   Gina Orlando

5 comments about Leap!: What Will We Do with the Rest of Our Lives?.

1. Very helpful to the baby-boomers...While written from a woman's point of view, it touches issues that must be common to men and women both.
   
   A must read!



2. I would've given this book a "zero star" rating if that was available. It was new-age blather, and there are already lots of sources for that. It mainly consists of interviews with folks who were either rich or famous (or both), not a lot of relevance for the average person who wants to figure out what to do with our remaining years. When she went on the two-week volunteer session to India, and her fellow volunteers described the author as "spoiled, needy, demanding and condescending", they nailed it. I'd just add narcissism to that list of her traits. It seems this was her own quest for self-fulfillment, with little to offer us in terms of helping us find our own self-fulfillment. Very disappointed, could not recommend this book.



3. I really enjoyed this book. This book gave me a new meaning to life. Always look forward to tomorrow, and at the end of the day, nothing really matters for everything is temporary. So enjoy every moment of your life!
   
   By giving real life examples, the author demonstrates that it is never too late to start anew. Some people achieve more in their old age, so never give up, regardless of your age. She starts off by citing herself as an example. After writing several bestseller books and many successful TV scripts, the author found herself without a job. Her books, scripts, and magazine articles were being rejected. She thought that it was the end of the world. But it was not so. We are all given second, third, fourth, and fifth chances. And if need be, we can be given many more chances. The author soon reclaims her previous glory, and this book `Leap!' is now on the New York Times bestselling books 30 years after her last bestselling book, `Loose Change'.
   
   The author draws on the experience of famous people such as Carly Simon (who ends up having a hit after many in the music industry gave up on her); Jane Fonda (she demonstrates that there is life after the smash hit `Barbarella), Iman (a model from Ethiopia who ends up being a sensation in New York and ends up marrying David Bowie); and many others. You will also hear stories from writers, professors, psychologists, and spiritual leaders.
   
   The chapter on spiritual leaders was my favorite one, for I found it very controversial. One Indian guru says that organized religions are bad, for no one can tell you the path you should take. Every person should find his own path that leads to the truth. No two persons can take the same path. Put in other words, "truth is a pathless land, and it cannot be approached by any path whatsoever, by any religion, or any sect. The spoken or written word is not the truth...if an organization be formed for this purpose, it becomes a crutch, a weakness, a bondage, and must cripple the individual." (p. 244). To find the truth, we must be absolutely and unconditionally free! I found this concept interesting. This same guru abolished his own sect, despite the objection of his followers, for again, he was against organized religions and sects.
   
   Another guru leaves all his worldly belongings and lives a life of spirituality and begging. He neglects his body so much that he does not feel the bugs eating at his body. Is this the way to attain the ultimate truth? Which path will you follow?
   
   Who are we, and who is asking the question? Are we our body, or our conscious; or maybe both? When we reflect on our life, who is doing the reflecting? Who is observing our life? Who is the observer? Is the observer our conscious? I found those questions very intriguing. To find the answers to these questions is worth living every minute of our life, and this is what this book is all about!
   
   I am by no means old, but I do constantly think about death. As the author explains, some Indian gurus recommend we meditate on death on a daily basis. We will all die, and we better accept this fact at an early age. Knowing that one day we will die should give us power. With death looming over our head, we are actually motivated to enjoy life for we know that one day it will all end.
   
   By thinking about dying, I actually empower myself. Whenever things don't go the way I want them too, or whenever I am sad, lonely, or depressed, I think of death. I say to myself, "One day I will day, and none of this will matter." This thought is enough to put me back on my feet with zeal! Thinking of death is not such a bad thing after all!
   
   It is never too late to enjoy life and start new careers. As the author explains, some people start new careers in their sixties and seventies! Others acquire new hobbies such as learning new languages.
   
   The strange thing is that some people opt to end their lives rather than get old. Dying is one thing, getting old is another. It might be easier to accept death than a long life of suffering and inactivity due to old age. The author discusses this and offers real life examples.
   
   The book ends with two pages entitled, "Reading Group Questions and Topics for Discussion." This is the first time I see this in a book (other than in text books), and I think it is a great addition for reading groups. Some of the discussion questions you will find:
   
   1. Why was `surrender' painful for the author? Did her understanding of surrender change? (None of us should ever surrender. It is never too late to start anew. There is always light at the end of the tunnel).
   
   2. Have you considered having plastic surgery or decided against it? Did reading the author's report on a face lift affect your thinking? (After reading her chapter on plastic surgery, I don't think I'd ever recommend it to any healthy person).
   
   3. The author explores whether we're `hard-wired' to seek a romantic partner. What is your experience? (I personally think we are `hard-wired' to seek our other half!)
   
   4. Davidson discovers a great range of sexual behavior after fifty, from those who give it up to those who discover new sensations. What intrigued or disturbed you about her reporting on sexuality? (The chapter on sexuality was intriguing and I learnt things I never knew. I am sure many readers will find that chapter both informative and enjoyable. The passages on the G-spot were quite informative).
   
   5. The author says we're a society of workaholics, but the imperative is not merely to work but to align yourself with your purpose. How would you go about doing that? (Life is not all about work. What's the point of having a career and being successful if you are not happy? Our goal should be to attain happiness, not success. Success might be a by-product of happiness).
   
   6. If you knew the world was going to end in two days, what would you do? (This is one of the most important questions in this book. Whatever you think you should do, DO IT NOW!)
   
   7. Is there such a thing as `rational suicide'? (I am personally against suicide, but if I was terminally ill (God forbid) and saw the suffering of those around me as a result of my hopeless state, would I contemplate suicide to end the misery of my loved ones? If one commits suicide as a selfless act, would that be `rational suicide'?)
   
   8. What's the purpose of a `life review'? (A `life-review' will make you the observer, separating you from `the you'. You are no longer `you' but the observer).
   
   Note: If you purchased `Leap!' you may download the free workbook, which has exercises to help you define what's right for you in the years ahead. Go to saradavidson.com and click on `Free Workbook."
   
   To sum up, I think the back cover of the book summarizes the importance of this book: "Davidson holds up a mirror for readers, allowing them to see not only themselves and those around them but their potential futures...and the possibilities are boundless."



4. Sara Davidson's LEAP carries one through from one sketch to the next. The
   inspirations that come from each sketch motivates one into thinking about
   the "rest of our lives". I have
   recommended this book to several friends who will connect. It actually gives
   a door opening to those who are still to reach the "age of what will I do with
   the last 20 years or so of my life. Don't miss this book!



5. This book should be subtitled "What will We (The Rich, Self-Indulgent, With No Obligations) Do With the Rest of Our Lives?" I am a baby boomer, but I have 2 kids in college that I am still partially supporting, elderly parents and in-laws that will soon need my help, and a husband who has a job he loves and doesn't want to leave. I can't drop everything and run off to India or Costa Rica to discover myself. If you have the time and money to do that sort of thing, then maybe this book is for you.

5 comments about Suffering Is Optional: Three Keys to Freedom and Joy.

1. Hi,

   I love Cheri's books. I find them to be WONDERFULLY enlightening, interesting, deep and profound, yet fun and funny. A FANTASTIC way to understand deep Zen teachings and apply them to every day life. The books "There is Nothing Wrong With You" and "Suffering is Optional" especially spoke to me.

   I REALLY like the handwritten look text. It is both easy to read, and seems more "fun" somehow than regular book type. Her approach is very conversational and fun, and at times, humorous. She draws me in, and I don't want to stop reading (except to do the exercises).

   I previously tried to read some of the Zen classics, by both oriental and western writers, but their writings just seemed to philosophical, too dry, too hard to understand and apply, not to mention too small type to read comfortably. I just happened on Cheri's books at my local bookstore. Once I read one, I was hooked! I've read 5 and counting!

   Thank you Cheri!




2. I've read a lot of books on Buddhism of various flavors - Zen, Tibetan, etc. Most Zen books I've read are either very abstract, or very straightforward but lacking in detail for how to practice day-to-day. Cheri Huber has written the ultimate book that is pretty much buzzword-free and extremely simple to put to the test.
   
   /Suffering Is Optional/ is not really a Buddhist book, or a Zen book. It happens to have been written by a Zen teacher, and there are a few Buddhist-y words (mostly "karma") that are used to highlight points for which Western culture tends to lack solid terminology. But for the most part, this is simply a book about freeing yourself from the ways you (often unknowingly) punish yourself. Suffering is indeed optional, and Cheri Huber shows how to see that.
   
   This is a very fast, very simple read, but do not be fooled. /Suffering Is Optional/ does not set out some pie-in-the-sky path to happiness that involves no effort on your part. Quite the opposite, as the author herself is quick to point out:
   
   "I remind people with annoying regularity that if this practice were easy it would be more popular. Consider that, please. Look around and see what has thousands or even millions of 'adherents.' What do those things have in common? I would suggest that they all share the quality of people being exactly as they are while having something hopeful to believe. Very popular. Compare that with a practice that encourages people moment by moment to go up against, see through, and embrace the worst stuff in life. Not popular."
   
   Not popular, maybe, but I feel it is very beneficial.
   
   There's a lot of hands-on exercises to try in this book... Not of the SIT PERFECTLY STRAIGHT IN YOUR CHAIR MAKING THE SUCH-AND-SUCH MUDRA WITH YOUR HANDS sort. No, miss Huber invites you to be AWARE of the things that go on in your life, and inside you. What things lead to joy, and what things lead to suffering? She doesn't preach or politicize any of it - all she asks and guides you to do is to be aware. Through awareness and genuine commitment, much can be revealed about our interactions with this world and how often we get in the way of our own happiness.
   
   If you're ever stressed, or angry, or frustrated, I highly recommend this book. It's conversational, caring, and does not require you to run out and purchase a saffron robe and begging bowl. I've yet to discover a more wise or more powerful way for discovering "the path to freedom and joy."



3. Focuss on the core of suffering...No pep talk but realistic talk ! Anyone who has courage to step into her path ! You have already won half the battle



4. I have read just about every Cheri Huber book, and given them as gifts to friends. She has impacted my life in a very positive way. I highly recommend any of her books to anyone who is open to seeing life in a new way. The books are very easy reads, and the type of books you read more than once to let the information truly sink in.



5. Great book. Great condition. excellent read. You can read this over and over and get more out of it. She is an excellent writer. Very helpful.