Book Description
In her first two books, Byron Katie showed how suffering can be ended by questioning the stressful thoughts that create it, through a process of self-inquiry she calls The Work. Now, in
A Thousand Names for Joy, she encourages us to discover the freedom that lives on the other side of inquiry.
Stephen Mitchell—the renowned translator of the Tao Te Ching—selected provocative excerpts from that ancient text as a stimulus for Katie to talk about the most essential issues that face us all: life and death, good and evil, love, work, and fulfillment. The result is a book that allows the timeless insights of the Tao Te Ching to resonate anew for us today, while offering a vivid and illuminating glimpse into the life of someone who for twenty years—ever since she “woke up to reality” one morning in 1986—has been living what Lao-tzu wrote more than 2,500 years ago.
Katie’s profound, lighthearted wisdom is not theoretical; it is absolutely authentic. That is what makes this book so compelling. It’s a portrait of a woman who is imperturbably joyous, whether she is dancing with her infant granddaughter or finds that her house has been emptied out by burglars, whether she stands before a man about to kill her or embarks on the adventure of walking to the kitchen, whether she learns that she is going blind, flunks a “How Good a Lover Are You?” test, or is diagnosed with cancer. With her stories of total ease in all circumstances, Katie does more than describe the awakened mind; she lets you see it, feel it, in action. And she shows you how that mind is yours as well.
Customer Reviews:
A thousand ways it's fabulous.......2007-09-15
I usually buy these kinds of books but then only read the first and last chapters. I not only read this entire book, I truly enjoyed it. She's the real deal, Ms. Byron Katie. I've never attended a workshop of hers, but I feel like I know her already. And her exercises have really started to change my life.
Striking insight into the mind of a woman who lives beyond attachment.......2007-09-05
Mindfulness practices and philosophies often say, "Be happy, and accept what Is. Be present." *cynical snort* Easy to say, impossible to do. The Devil is daily life. Sure, the Dalai Lama is serene. He meditates seven hours a day, has all his physical needs provided for by others, and needn't deal with any daily details. And he's celibate--no spouse to help him get dressed ("Oh, Tenzin, surely you're not wearing the maroon robes, again!"), and no teenage kids. Who couldn't be serene with that gig?
What's remarkable about Byron Katie is that she's serene in the midst of the modern, 21st century world. She has kids, a husband, an ex-husband, and an international business.
In this book, she attempts to put into words what it's like, living in her world. Yeah, she talks about life and death and grand universal concepts. Yada yada yada. There are a thousand masters who'll tell you about that.
Katie offers something infinitely more valuable: a glimpse into daily life. What is it like to get out of bed when you're not attached to thoughts like "I have things to do?" What thoughts go through her mind? How about when she does the dishes? Or when she trips on her way to answer the front door? What if she's mugged at gunpoint? Or her child dies? Or what if she's struck by a degenerative eye disease while writing the book? How does that change (or not) her world?
Some of her perspectives on life are familiar. Some are vastly different from anything you've heard. Yet her world makes sense, and even though I'm not there yet, it sounds like an infinitely joyous, loving world worth living in.
If Katie isn't a truly free, non-attached woman, she does the most convincing imitation I've ever heard. Buy the audiobook for a look into her world.
This book does NOT teach you The Work, her method of inquiring into your thoughts to reach this state of joy. For that, check out her book/audiobook Loving What Is, which includes facilitation sessions with real people using The Work.
Loving What Is: Four Questions That Can Change Your Life
The Real Deal.......2007-08-25
Katie is the Real Deal, a clear mind experiencing heaven on earth and living with absolute integrity.
Her previous book, "Loving What Is", is the textbook which tells you in disarmingly simple terms how to get there yourself. In my opinion, it is the Alpha and Omega of all truth texts.
A Thousand Names For Joy gives a further glimpse into what life is like in that clarity. It gives me further incentive to go back to the simple instructions in the first book and Do The Work.
Caution: If you want to stay the same, read something else.
Once these concepts and questions start seeping into your consciousness, we're talking about a revolution.
Enjoy!
An Amazing Book.......2007-08-08
This is an amazing book from an enlightened woman...she tells you what it is like to see the world thru her perception. WOW!
Daily exercise.......2007-08-06
The chapters are small so this is a great book to read a chapter every day and get a positive jolt of energy. It's a wonderful way to transform one's life.
Average customer rating:
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A Grief Observed
C. S. Lewis
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ASIN: 0060652381
Release Date: 2001-02-05 |
Amazon.com
C.S. Lewis joined the human race when his wife, Joy Gresham, died of cancer. Lewis, the Oxford don whose Christian apologetics make it seem like he's got an answer for everything, experienced crushing doubt for the first time after his wife's tragic death. A Grief Observed contains his epigrammatic reflections on that period: "Your bid--for God or no God, for a good God or the Cosmic Sadist, for eternal life or nonentity--will not be serious if nothing much is staked on it. And you will never discover how serious it was until the stakes are raised horribly high," Lewis writes. "Nothing will shake a man--or at any rate a man like me--out of his merely verbal thinking and his merely notional beliefs. He has to be knocked silly before he comes to his senses. Only torture will bring out the truth. Only under torture does he discover it himself." This is the book that inspired the film Shadowlands, but it is more wrenching, more revelatory, and more real than the movie. It is a beautiful and unflinchingly honest record of how even a stalwart believer can lose all sense of meaning in the universe, and how he can gradually regain his bearings. --Michael Joseph Gross
Book Description
In this classic trial of faith, C. S. Lewis probes the fundamental issues of life and death, and summons those who grieve to honest mourning and hope in the midst of loss.
Customer Reviews:
An Interesting Read.......2007-09-19
C.S. Lewis's "A Grief Observed" is quite different from most of his other works. It is a thoroughly honest recording of his thoughts about the death of his wife. Whereas Lewis carefully argued for the compatibility of suffering and a loving God in "The Problem of Pain," he never claimed that his arguments and philosophical thinking would be any comfort for the actual suffering a person may experience. "A Grief Observed" reveals this to be the case- Lewis finds himself doubting God (mostly doubting His goodness) because of his tremendous grief.
The book is composed of four short chapters, and you can easily see changes in his demeanor and ways of thinking throughout the short book. By the end, Lewis seems to have regained a level of confidence in his faith, although he was shook to the core by the death of his wife.
For me, the book was a strange read, and I had little ability to relate to Lewis. I have not experienced such a tragic loss yet, though there is little doubt that one day, this book will connect with me on a deeper level. However, as to whether or not this short book offers a good source of comfort to those who have suffered a great loss, I cannot say. Yet, if you want to see C.S. Lewis at his most human, most honest moments, then "A Grief Observed" is the book to read.
Death of a loved one.......2007-07-29
This book was recommended to me when my son died. I found it very helpful in dealing with my sorrow, and I would recommend it to anyone who has lost someone very dear to them.
Breathtaking .......2007-07-28
The fact that only five stars can be awarded is, in this case, a travesty. The acuity of Lewis' mind, in direct correlation with his ability to transfer his thoughts to paper is that which places him amongst the most riveting authors of the twentieth century, if not of all time. It is by the pen of this individual that many have come to understand the Christian religion with greater confidence due to the fact that Lewis has a way of evoking personal sentiments that may have been otherwise buried in the subconscious. It is from the mind of Lewis that some have come to terms with The Problem of Pain. From this same mind, others have been provided with the information necessary to see through the theological differences across Christian boundaries in an effort to discover Mere Christianity. However, A Grief Observed is a work of art like no other.
What differentiates this work from all others is that Lewis applies his amazing ability to the evaluation of his own mind, as opposed to an effort directed towards helping others grasp difficult concepts. A Grief Observed may be the most honest and moving literary masterpiece ever created by a human hand. It appears as if Lewis commenced the documentation of his experience uncertain of whether he would publish it for public consumption, or retain it for his own purposes. It would be difficult to determine if Lewis, himself, knew with any degree of certainty what was to become of his somewhat stream of consciousness jottings when he began. This stream of consciousness, however, could not be compared to that of James Joyce or the like. While it is jumbled at times - as one might expect the mind operating after a significant loss - Lewis maintains a flow of logic and reasoning that is just as seemingly clairvoyant as his most premeditated works.
Many may turn to this short work only after themselves suffering a personal loss. While one cannot be certain as to how reading this would affect their grievances; it is fairly apparent throughout this work that Lewis would not expect that anything created by the hands of man could dampen the blow suffered by the loss of a loved one. However, the fortunate might be those that have an opportunity to experience this amazing walk through another man's thoughts while they are free from their own emotional suffering. Whatever it is that might bring an individual to the thought of examining A Grief Observed, it can be assured that they only serve to gain by following through with their initial curiosity. To expect this work to fill a void would be comparable to throwing a penny into the Grand Canyon; outside of this expectation, this text is worth its weight in life.
Wrestling with God.......2007-07-15
There are only two marriages I've ever been interested in: that of Francis and Edith Schaeffer, and that of Lewis and Joy Davidson.
This book, while it hints of what the Lewis-Davidson marriage was like, is not about their marriage. Instead, it's an absolutely no b.s. recording of a mind as its world has turned bleakly, seemingly inconsolably, black. But this is no ordinary mind. This is the mind of C.S. Lewis, arguably the greatest Christian apologist of the 20th century, if not all time.
If you have read any of Lewis' other books, you will sense that Lewis had some deep personal struggles, going back to his early childhood. It's not obvious. You have to read between the lines, and even then very carefully. But people who have had similar struggles will know what he's communicating to them, consciously or not.
When Lewis married Joy, I don't think he knew what he was getting into. Or maybe he did. Whichever, somehow a former Marxist, divorced mother of two boys, and powerful Christian thinker in her own right was able to get in, under and on Lewis' skin. She was God's unlikely choice for him, which is probably the best kind.
There's was a marriage steeped in levels of love and truth unknown by most couples and certainly most of us unmarried folk. How can you tell? Well, when it ended, it just about ended Lewis' other great and even longer relationship, that of Lewis and his Lord.
This is a tough book. The lesson I got from it is: don't put anything above your realtionship with Christ. Because when that anything comes to end, which it invariably will, it's only the unfailing grace and love of God that will bring you through it. And even experiencing that will be a battle.
A Grief Observed.......2007-07-05
This book really is an aid to anyone experiencing the loss of a loved one. C.S. Lewis describes so eloquently the feelings of loneliness,anger, disbelief,faith and hope one feels while experiencing grief.
Book Description
For millennia, Buddhists have enjoyed the limitless benefits of meditation. But how does it work? And why? The principles behind this ancient practice have long eluded some of the best minds in modern science. Until now.
In this groundbreaking work, world-renowned Buddhist teacher
Yongey Mingyur Rinpoche invites us to join him in unlocking the secrets behind the practice of meditation. Working with neuroscientists at the Waisman Laboratory for Brain Imaging and Behavior, Yongey Mingyur provides clear insights into modern research indicating that systematic training in meditation can enhance activity in areas of the brain associated with happiness and compassion. He has also worked with physicists across the country to develop a fresh, scientifically based interpretation of the Buddhist understanding of the nature of reality.
With an infectious joy and insatiable curiosity, Yongey Mingyur weaves together the principles of Tibetan Buddhism, neuroscience, and quantum physics in a way that will forever change the way we understand the human experience. Using the basic meditation practices he provides, we can discover paths through everyday problems, transforming obstacles into opportunities to recognize the unlimited potential of our
own minds.
With a foreword by bestselling author Daniel Goleman, The Joy of Living is a stunning breakthrough, an illuminating vision of the science of Buddhism and a handbook for transforming our minds, bodies, and lives.
Customer Reviews:
Great for anyone.......2007-09-20
This book provides some of the most clearest and accessible descriptions of meditation, awareness, consciousness, the nature of the mind, and practical application I've ever read. Buddhism in general, and meditation in particular, are much misunderstood in the West, even by longtime spiritual practitioners. The author clarifies much of th common misconceptions. He writes in a clear, light-hearted and very engaging style. I recommend this book to absolutely anyone intersted in self-cultivation, whether they follow this particular path (Tibetan Buddhism) or not. Of particular interest to those who like to bridge the gap between science and spirituality. Destined to become a classic.
Finally, meditation made accessible..........2007-09-09
Simply the most accessible, least intimidating introduction to medidation ever written. Written with the spiritual layman clearly in mind without, however, dumbing down the recommended spiritual practices. Relentlessly upbeat and encouraging in tone. A must-read for anyone even remotely interested in practical, effective spiritual proactices regardless of readers' respective religious denominations or lack thereof. An amazing, long overdue book.
Learn how to meditate and live in the moment.......2007-09-03
I am the sort of person who has a HARD time just sitting still and being quiet-let alone meditate! This book was the first book that made the thought of meditating actually easy and possible for someone like me to calm my mind, be present, embrace quiet time with myself and learn to live more calmly and peacefully. I absolutely adore my life but I was filling it up with busy stuff and forgetting about how powerful being alone with me and my thoughts can be to create the life I want-this book reminded me and showed me how to do this.
Live in Joy.......2007-09-03
These pages sing with wisdom from the voice of the Happy Monk as Yongey is fondly called; his humorous compassionate vignettes will also have you smiling. He is a wonderful youthful story teller for modern day using his experience about Tibetan Buddhism, science and the human condition, woven like the humble master he his with the ability to help and heal others. This book is for the practitioner and non-practitioner alike but after reading it you must practice! He busts the myths surrounding meditation from a life of having done so with a host of stops and starts and having guided others in the process He reminds one that "The expectations you bring to meditation are often the greatest obstacles you encounter"
His description of emptiness as infinite possibilities, neuronal plasticity, a process to unlearn the habit of fear and affirmation of the biological basis for kindness are just some of the realizations herein to help us live in active hopefulness. His conviction of these and many life enhancing ways are spelled out for us in almost Hemmingway simplicity such that you too will find many jewels and joy herein.
Let me end this with an ancient prayer that Yongey shares with us:
May all sentient beings have happiness
And the cause of happiness.
May all sentient beings be free
From suffering and the causes of suffering.
May all sentient being have joy and the causes of joy.
May all sentient beings remain in great equanimity,
Free from attachment and aversion.
Beautifully clear.......2007-08-30
Mingyur Rinpoche is, among other qualities, the personification of clarity, and this book is just a further expression of that fact. If you know any cynics or rationalists who 'poo-poo' meditation then get them to read this, it might help.
Book Description
#1 bestselling author Joyce Meyer reveals the seven most common obstacles to living a happy life-and the ways to triumph over them. Throughout the Bible,from 'make a joyful noise,' to 'rejoice in the Lord always,'believers are encouraged to be joyful. Not only does joy foster good feelings, but it also promotes strength and health. However, the stress of daily life often makes joy difficult to come by. Now, Joyce Meyer offers numerous examples from Scripture to remind readers that God promises a joyful attitude to anyone open to receiving it. She examines the seven pitfalls that prevent most people from living a joyful life and offers solutions to overcoming each of them. Then, in her honest and straightforward style, she encourages readers to make the decision to enjoy life-not just once in a while or when things are going well, but in every circumstance, every day.
Customer Reviews:
Meeting Myers.......2007-05-02
Upon reading this book as part of my Church's Women's Ministry "Book of the Month", I was well-pleased with the basic approach, simplistic illustrations, and personal sharing of a well-loved personality. Mrs. Meyers is commended for "making plain" the challenges of life and how we contribute to the absence of joy that hinders the Christian walk. When placed before us for honest review, the examples, suggestions and advice call for change and/or the acquiring of new perspectives on "things" and one's response to "things" that occur. The book is recommended for group study and as a companion to Christian self-help programs.
Seven things that steal your joy.......2006-10-15
This is an excellent book. Joyce Meyer made it so simple and easy to understand. She used her own personal experiences which makes you feel that her recommendations are realistic and effective.You can totally relate to this book.I highly recommend this book.
very helpful for Christians.......2006-06-14
This book was a wonderful help to me. It's written simply so the important concepts can really sink in. She uses a lot of Scripture which is something I appreciate. I don't think a non-Christian would gain much from this book, but I would recommend it for any Christian.
If I am feeling sad or defeated..........2006-01-25
If I am feeling sad or defeated, I put my Sony headphones on and Joyce talks to me. I know she is just reading her book, preaching her message, but the way she speaks, it really feels like she is talking directly to me, teaching me exactly the lesson I need to learn, exactly when I need to hear it. The timing of her messages in my life can only be described as supernatural. Many times the message is so right on, so clear, and such a relief, it reduces me to tears of joy. I am certain that God is using her to speak to me, and deliver the exact help I need, right when I need it. The fact is that my situation has not changed(much), but with God's help, I have been changed. God is so good.
Helps you regain your joy!!.......2005-09-25
This book helps you regain the joy that you thought you lost by pointing out the ways in which it was stolen. Too often as believers we get into a "rut" and we just don't "feel" like being joyful. So many things come at us and we begin to lose sight of God because of all the stuff piling up on top of us. This book helped me understand why I was in that "rut" and how to get out of it. No, the christian walk is not easy, but at least it can be joyful if we will stand strong in faith. If you feel like you have fallen it the "rut" of unjoyfulness, I suggest you buy this book and learn how to come back into the light before it is too late!
Book Description
LIFE DOESN'T HAVE TO BE JUST GOOD. IT CAN BE GREAT.
Let noted pastor, author and speaker Ed Young show you how.
Ed Young, pastor of one of the most attended churches in America and host of an inspirational TV show aired in over 150 million homes worldwide, believes that there is a definite path to true happiness. The media glamorizes life as a series of peak experiences and high-adrenaline adventures. But life is not like that, and circumstances are seldom the way people want them to be. Beginning with his five life-altering questions and eye-opening insights, Ed steers readers not only to a better life but to an even greater place beyond happiness that he calls outrageous, contagious joy. This is God's priority for everyone-a great, joyous life with happiness beyond their wildest dreams. Now Ed Young reaches beyond his congregation to share the message with us all.
Customer Reviews:
Easy reading in a very organized format.......2007-05-12
I enjoyed Ed Young's book fresh language and clearly organized ideas. The books is down to earth and applicable to any Christian. It would even be a good tool for evangelism.
Keep Your Eyes On the Big Picture!.......2007-05-07
Apparently, my definition of "glaring errors" is quite different than others. This book is excellent and provides much-needed encouragement, advice, and hope for people today. People who set out to look for errors will always find minute, inconsequential errors in books. Every book has them, because editing on tight deadlines is tough business; and these errors usually do very little to take away from the overall meaning and effectiveness of the book. Pointing these out just keeps people who need to read this book from picking it up and quite possible changing their lives. That's a shame. I've been involved in editing books for many years, and word histories are often difficult to pin down. One book says one thing and another something very different. For "hap," the meanings "chance" and "luck" are essentially the same thing, regardless of the point of origin. By the way, I don't know how much I'd take stock in a review about editing that has such a "glaring" run-on sentence at the end. The subtitle of this book is: Five Big Questions to Help You Discover One Great Life. Let's keep our eyes on the Big picture.
Where have all the editors gone?.......2007-05-04
I am not familiar with Ed Young or his church, but I picked up this book because I, too, believe that Christians should be filled with Joy. Unfortunately, in the first chapter there were two glaring errors that made me question the accuracy of the remainder of the book. First, Mr. Young attributed to Roy Rogers the quote, "Too many people spend money they haven't earned, to buy things they don't want, to impress people they don't like." Obviously that is a Will Rogers quote - not Roy Rogers. Then a few pages later he asserts that "happiness" comes from the latin word "hap" which means chance. Actually, "hap" was a middle English word for luck. I read the entire book, and I feel that these errors were indicative of the lack of proper editing, which is a shame because the concepts are excellent, but the execution leaves much to be desired.
Still reading it and will read it again and again.......2007-03-02
I just started this book and put it down only to concentrate on my college courses. My plan is to read it through once to get the feel for it then re-read it while interactively doing the exercises. Great book for spiritual growth and for sharing with fellow Christians.
"A Must Read".......2007-01-24
Ed Young has a wonderful gift and that is the ability to reach the minds, hearts and souls of people. He does it with his message during his church services and now has accomplished the same effectiveness through his writing. One can not help but feel the power of God and be uplifted after reading this book. I highly recommend it to all.
Book Description
With the same grace and breadth of learning she brought to her studies of the mind’s pathologies, Kay Redfield Jamison examines one of its most exalted states: exuberance. This “abounding, ebullient, effervescent emotion” manifests itself everywhere from child’s play to scientific breakthrough and is crucially important to learning, risk-taking, social cohesiveness, and survival itself.
Exuberance: The Passion for Life introduces us to such notably irrepressible types as Teddy Roosevelt, John Muir, and Richard Feynman, as well as Peter Pan, dancing porcupines, and Charles Schulz’s Snoopy. It explores whether exuberance can be inherited, parses its neurochemical grammar, and documents the methods people have used to stimulate it. The resulting book is an irresistible fusion of science and soul.
Customer Reviews:
Passion is for LIfe.......2007-04-23
This refreshing book about passion is welcome as it characterizes some behavior what others might think was excessive as exuberance. A nice shift in perspective with a positive spin. Sees bi polar activity as many faceted and differing in each person
Get on with it!.......2006-11-24
I have yet to finish the book but within pages I was both crying and laughing from the EXUBERANCES of the folks highlighted. This is a great reminder to get on with it and stop taking yourself so seriously. I am giving it to many in my family for Christmas.
The Tragedy of Exuberance........2006-09-25
_Exuberance: The Passion for Life_ by psychiatrist Kay Redfield Jamison is a fairly interesting account of individuals who have exhibited a distinctive zest for living as revealed in their activities and work. Those who are prone to excessive enthusiasm, gregariousness, and creative insight are discussed by the author, who attempts to show what it is that uniquely determines this trait. While much of the writing in this book is beautiful, it must be pointed out that exuberance is not without its pitfalls. At times enthusiasm may overcome reason leading to unusual, eccentric, or even dangerous behavior, perhaps best illustrated in literature by the case of Toad from the book _The Wind in the Willows_ by Kenneth Grahame. And, often behind the personalities of exuberant individuals there lurks a darker side of irritability, depression, and despondency. Cases of collective exuberance include stock market booms and the battle lust exhibited by some soldiers during combat. However, as anyone quickly realizes both of these have their downside and can be highly destructive. In addition, exuberance often makes it difficult to interact with others. As the author explains, exuberance tends to be a trait that an individual either has or they don't. Those who lack this trait may become jealous of or annoyed with those who possess it in abundance. In the life of great scientists, the case of the physicist Richard Feynman provides an illustration of this. While he exhibited great exuberance in his teaching style, he often left students who could not keep up or who possessed a more placid personality completely alienated. Feynman himself seems to have understood this at times, and the author quotes one of his remarks to the effect that perhaps his style served only the purpose of amusing himself.
This book for me in many ways was a great temptation.
For many years I felt like much of what is described in this book. I was intensely enthuasiastic, curious, fascinated by detail, completely immersed in thoughts and ideas, and at times experiencing an almost mystical sort of communion with the world and nature. Then one day something happened. I began to realize that not everyone had these feelings and this zest for life, and that what was worse is that many resented me because I did. Things started to bother me more, I began to feel profoundly alienated, and feelings of distress and anxiety welled up inside of me. Little by little I was exhausting myself. As it turned out I became severely depressed, and it took a long while before I felt close to normal again.
I still sometimes have these feelings again, but I have learned now to keep them to myself. And this is the tragedy of exuberance. For every up side there is a down side.
The author Kay Jamison is perhaps best known for her research on and theories of manic depression. She herself is a sufferer from a rather severe form of this illness. And in this book, she attempts to link the more extreme forms of exuberance to mania. Exuberance may be seen on a continuum, in its milder forms it may involve an excess of enthusiasm, gregariousness, creativity, and perhaps even religious and mystical feelings. However, in excess exuberance may overcome reason and commonsense. It is in the form of hypomania and mania where excesses of exuberance prove most severe. And often lurking behind this great excess of feeling lies irritability, paranoia, and eventually depression. Perhaps most interesting in this regard is Jamison's discussion of the writer Robert Louis Stevenson, himself plagued by wild changes in mood, who wrote on the dual nature of man, perhaps most famously in his account of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. In this story, Stevenson revealed the conflict within man between his better nature and his shadow, darker self. This conflict may be observed in those individuals who exhibit exuberance at its most extreme. My one fault with Jamison's analysis is that she seems to restrict exuberance to extraverted individuals, and this restriction to me seems unwarranted. While extraverts may seem the natural sort to experience feelings of exuberance, I certainly believe that it is possible to have an introverted sort of exuberance (one allied perhaps with mysticism or scientific creativity and discovery). In addition, while the author mostly focuses on scientists and a few "eccentrics" and observers of nature, many scientists look down upon those who are exuberant, finding them lacking in the proper degree of objectivity, skepticism, and rigor necessary for the scientific endeavor. Indeed, an entire movement exists in the sciences that seeks to move away from any sort of cosmic, pantheistic, or mystical feelings of awe associated with nature towards a more brute materialism. Within the field of religion a similar thing exists, with many religious looking down on mystics.
Finally, I must add that my major problem with this book as with all Kay Jamison's books is her tendency to romanticize suffering and mental illness. She seems to associate certain personality traits with high social status, something I find particularly noxious. What is worse, she seems to associate mental illness, particularly manic depression, with high social status, creativity, and genius. Not only does this re-inforce stereotypes, but also it entirely overlooks the fact of the many individuals who suffer from this illness in silence and alone, never to achieve any social status whatsoever. Jamison never really seems to face fully on the darker more destructive side of things. And this leaves her almost oblivious to the social issues raised by mental illness. As with all her books, this one is really written for the high IQ, highly socially connected manic; however, Jamison never really seems to consider the fact that there are many who suffer in silence who are not so blessed.
Far from exuberant.......2006-07-18
Having read the five-star reviews I expected a joyful book. Unfortunately I got well and truly bogged down - not because of its intellectual weight (I've read far more erudite books than this) but because it seemed to analyse a human quality to death. What next: a mathematical formula for love - with warnings on overdose?
If other readers argue that any other approach to the subject would be frivolous, I would strongly disagree. Rather than being encouraged to experience joi do vie ourselves, we are constantly cautioned by the author to beware of the fine line between exuberance and psychopathology. Oh, we are assured - more as an afterthought - that we can reclaim joy in the end. But this is only after a long hard struggle.
Emphasising as it does the "duality of moods" the book is more a thesis on the unhealthy extremes - something that no doubt is germane for psychology students. But do we have to become so self-conscious about aliveness that we worry about going over the edge when we celebrate life?
It is interesting to note that the author does not mention playfulness, surely a 'calmer' form of exuberance, but which the majority of adults seem to have lost. No academic thesis, even if it is impressively articulate(as I concede this one is) will help us retrieve that lost quality. I note too that the author does not give personal examples. Does this mean that she is theorist only - an observer at best? If so, I'd like to hear from someone who speaks from experience. A child maybe. After all, children are reported to laugh every day five times more than adults. Perhaps this is because they are not so self-conscious and self-limiting in their approach to life as we are.
An Interesting, Anecdotal Exploration of Exuberance.......2006-07-03
As a scientific work, this book is well-written and presented in an interesting fashion. It consists mostly of brief anecdotes about people who were unusually exuberant, including Theodore Roosevelt, John Muir and Richard Feynman. There isn't a great deal of technical or clinical data, just well-written observations. The author's exploration of the dark side of exuberance was brief, but intriguing. If you are looking for a book about how to bring exuberance to your daily life, this isn't it. The author takes the position that exuberance isn't something that can be developed, but rather occurs naturally.
Book Description
Based on Marc Bekoff's years of experience studying the social communication patterns of a wide range of animals, this important book shows that animals have rich emotional lives. Not only can animal emotions teach us about love, empathy, and compassion, argues Bekoff — they require us to radically rethink our current relationship of domination and abuse of animals. Award-winning scientist Bekoff skillfully blends extraordinary stories and anecdotes of animal grief, joy, embarrassment, anger, and love with the latest scientific research confirming the existence of emotions that commonsense experience has long implied. The author also explores the evolutionary purposes of emotions in a wide range of different species, showing how science is discovering brain structures that produce emotions, how we can track an evolutionary continuum based on shared brain structures among species, and how new information is being revealed by noninvasive neurological research
techniques. Filled with Bekoff's light humor and touching stories, The Emotional Lives of Animals is a clarion call for reassessing both how we view animals and how we treat them.
Customer Reviews:
Scientific truths written for the lay audience.......2007-09-13
Marc Bekoff has rattled more than a few cages in his long career as a cognitive ethologist, but that does not make what he has to say any less true. This book summarizes the case for recognizing the similarities we share with our non-human mammalian companions, and it does so with flair, as well as attention to scientific detail.
For scientists or simply science buffs, this book has plenty to satisfy, but it's not just for them. This book is more for the average American who has always sensed the truths of non-human emotional lives (or maybe even has not), but is curious about the science behind the facts.
I have long been fond of saying "a mammalian brain is a mammalian brain is a mammalian brain, whether it belongs to you, your cat or my horse." Marc Bekoff makes this same statement with much more clarity and deeper understanding.
This book should leave you with a greater respect for the lives of the non-humans we share this planet with, and a deeper understanding of the ways our experiences here are the same, rather than focusing on what's different. It turns out the similarities are greater than the differences!
But all the science aside, this is also a book filled with great stories of observations of scientists and laypeople alike that back up the studies. Stories like the one told by an e-mail friend of mine, who witnessed two young mice trapped, where one helped the other to recover rather than just seeking its own salvation (I wonder if humans would have had the same level of compassion!).
This book should change your life. If it doesn't then your mind must be very closed, indeed.
Fine Ethical Thesis: Touching Stories........2007-09-10
Do no harm is the essence of this book. It provides colorful insight into the real emotional lives of various animals. The author used a wide variety of sources, & field observations from wildlife biologists. The section on neurobiology were the most interesting for me. The fact that animals share several of our neural structures for emotion came as no surprise to this lay person. I have always felt {& have been bashed plenty for it}, that animals often represent the better half of human nature that we sometimes submerge. Dogs, Reptiles, Monkeys, Rats, Moon Bears, Whales & Elephants are all here. The latter are probably the most fascinating creatures in the book? The authors advocacy for animals was very refreshing to this animal lover. His basic thesis gives us a crucial point, "that if we are not certain about an animals emotions, we should presume that they often feel exactly what we humans do." For that compassionate view I had to up my four star impression to a hearty five.
Beautiful, sensative and scientific.......2007-08-14
wonderful exploration of cognitive ethology. Beckoff is not afraid to explore the sensitive side of the animal kingdom and use hard science to draw dynamic and bold conclusions that any animal lover knows to be true.
A splendid and important book.......2007-07-13
The Emotional Lives of Animals is a book rich in drama and beauty--as are the lives of our fellow animals. Persuading us with scientific evidence, personal experience, and heartwarming stories, Bekoff shows us how all of us--mammals and fish, birds and reptiles, humans and non- -- share many of the same emotions, social constructions and responses. This is a book I wish every human on the planet could read. It would change the world. And it well may yet. Thank you, Marc Bekoff, for your scientific acuity, your beautifully chosen words, and your warm heart.
--Sy Montgomery
author of The Good Good Pig
and other books
Of Course Animals Feel Things.......2007-06-07
I love the studies that try to make chimps 'speak' our language. How egocentric of us: how about scientists trying to speak their language and being tested on that? Just because we wear clothes doesn't make us the only feeling creatures God made. Ever see an animal run from headlights? Your pet in a bad mood? Puppies cuddle? Why is this even an issue? Because traditionally, feelings belonged to women and everyone knows women, children and the elderly don't rate worth a hoot so why should feelings in animals rate? With more men like this author, all that is changing. But until 'men' in science realize analysis is only so good and that feelings coupled with intelligence and intuition is what makes the world go round, we will continue to have this ridiculous debate. Let's face it. We just recently decided babies feel pain. Why? Because anything that can't talk is considered 'below' men and non-entities. Until the silent, pawed and everything that doesn't go to Harvard is afforded respect, we will join with this author in his quest to prove animals have feelings. So many of us have known this all along -
the same people who know that children feel and remember.
Book Description
Written teen to teen as a first-person narrative, this is not a book about the Columbine shootings - instead, it's a story of faith, told in Rachel's own words. The book includes first person narratives, journal entries, drawings from Rachel's diary, and notes from her parents and friends at Columbine High School. Additionally, "me pages" (what makes me angry, what I'm aftraid of) encourage teens to explore issues central to their lives and faith. Highlighting Rachel's faith journey from the time she became a Christian, through her joys and doubts, her hopes and dreams, this story is a triumphant testimony that teens will treasure.
Customer Reviews:
engrossing book.......2006-11-13
I highly recommend this book. Based on her real journals, you feel by the end of this book like you knew Rachal Scott personally. Even though it's not the exact journal entries, Beth Nimmo, Rachal's mother collaborated with the writer, and you get the sense that Rachal's true character was captured. This book brings to life a girl mature and inciteful beyond her years. I was humbled and deeply moved by her total commitment to living out her faith in Christ. I appreciate especially her honesty. Her story brings to life the loss of such a beautiful young woman. You don't need to be a teenage girl to read this book, but every teenager should read it.Thank you Beth for allowing us to walk along side her in her last years.
Great for teenage girls.......2006-06-30
I bought this book for my 16 yr. old daughter and her mind set has changed. After reading this book, all on her own she started journaling and recently asked to be baptised. I thank GOD for Rachel Joy Scott and her parents.
Inspiring.......2006-02-24
This book will change the way you view life and its meaning. I also recommend you read Rachels Tears as well!
Great gift.......2005-12-22
I bought this for a teenager I know and she loved it. She is a quiet teen but she made sure she brought this book to church to show it off. It is a thought-provoking book, very well written.
Deserves more stars * * * * * * * * *.......2005-07-13
When I first began reading this book it was right when I first wanted to give my life to God. This book helped me sooo much. It's full of inspirational quotes and accounts of a true christian. Her story really had an impact on my life. I bought this book for a few of my friends so that they could also read her incredible story. If you read any book it should be this one!
Book Description
Welcome to
The Joy Diet, a menu of ten behaviors you can add to your way of living and thinking to enhance every day’s journey through the unpredictable terrain of your existence. You can add these behaviors gradually and watch your life become steadily more vivid and satisfying. Or you can go on a “crash Joy Diet” to help you navigate life’s emergencies.
The ten menu items are:
• Nothing: Do nothing for fifteen minutes a day. Stop mindlessly chasing goals and figure out which goals are worth going after.
• Truth: Create a moment of truth to help you unmask what you’re hiding—from others and from yourself.
• Desire: Identify, articulate, and explore at least one of your heart’s desires—and learn how to let yourself want what you want.
• Creativity: Learn six new ways to develop at least one new idea to help you obtain your heart’s desire.
• Risk: Take one baby step toward reaching your goal. The only rule is it has to scare the pants off you.
• Treats: Give yourself a treat for every risk you take and two treats just because you’re you. No exceptions. No excuses.
• Play: Take a moment to remember your real life’s work and differentiate it from the games you play to achieve it. Then play wholeheartedly.
• Laughter: Laugh at least thirty times a day. Props encouraged.
• Connection: Use your Joy Diet skills to interact with someone who matters to you.
• Feasting: Enjoy at least three square feasts a day, with or without food.
No matter what your long-term goals are,
The Joy Diet, written with Martha Beck’s inimitable blend of
wisdom, practical guidance, and humor, will help you achieve the immediate gift of joyful living in the here
and now. Begin your journey today.
Customer Reviews:
Great recipe for creating more JOY in your life.......2007-09-18
I am a Martha Beck fan, having enjoyed and learned from the wisdom and insightfulness of several of her earlier books. After the heavy lifting done in "Finding Your Own North Star" (read it BEFORE this book if you haven't already), I was unsure if she could produce a substantive follow up. This book did not disappoint.
This book goes deeper into certain topics. It introduces ten daily practices to feed yourself and create more joy in your life. Beck recommends taking one step at a time and mastering it before moving on. I opted to read the book from cover to cover first and then reread it as I worked through each step. I spent more or less time on each menu item, depending on my level of mastery with each step (including being still/meditation, finding and telling your personal truth, identifying your desires, nourishing your creativity, taking risks, feeding your life with treats, playing, laughing, connecting to others, and daily feasting).
This book has obvious applications for those working through food issues. But its life applications make it a must read for anyone who is ready to create more joy in their daily life.
I once sat next to a dietician on an airplane who had arranged to have Martha Beck speak at their national conference - connecting the "Joy Diet" to the importance of their work. She found Beck so endearing that she commented, "she will always be `my Martha'". I think most female readers of Beck's books will feel this type of connection. Martha Beck "gets" her readers. She comes across as both intelligent and wise with a high level of common sense. She's tells you like it is while simultaneously inspiring you to do better and be more. She separates herself from many other self development authors by liberally sharing her quirky sense of humor to soften her straight talk. These are some of the reasons I use Beck's books in my life coaching practice and why I recommend that you add this book to your library today.
Mollie Marti, Ph.D.
Author, Selling: Powerful New Strategies for Sales Success
The Joy Diet: 10 Practices for a Happier Life.......2007-05-07
Was veryy upset this item was on cassette tape. I was looking at CD's and this was brought up as something I might Like and I was interested and ordered. Unfortunately have not been able to listen to. Need to find cassette player. No a reflection of the item but a reflection of offering other items not in same listening category.
A Joyful Read.......2007-03-08
I had the great good fortune to be trained by Martha Beck, known nationwide as "Oprah's Life Coach." Martha is funny, open and wise -- as is her wonderful book "The Joy Diet."
OK, it's probably the only "diet" book that doesn't have one recipe in it! Maybe that's precisely why I like it so much! Martha leads the reader through 10 Daily Practices which will bring much more joy into your life. Take it from me, it really works! From finding stillness amid the cacophony of your day, to telling the truth and taking risks, if you follow Martha's "menu" you will leave the table feeling full, happy and... joyful.
Great way to make the cup half-full.......2006-11-04
This is a great book with Martha Beck's unique style. Very practical, funny, and applicable to your life.
Pointing out 10 positives out of the Negatives!.......2006-08-26
After "Expecting Adam" & "Following Your Own North Star," who'd have thot such simple menus could bring specifics from Nothing, Truth, Desire, Creativity, Risk, Treats, Play, Laughter, Connectionn, Feasting! All this about the JOY Diet?
When beginning my second read the quotes that jumped out about an encounter with prison inmates were, "Dostoevsky, The best way to keep a prisoner from escaping is to make sure he never knows he's in prison." And from Freud, "Human beings are able to bury unpleasant, frightening, or forbidden truths in our subconscious minds so effectively that our conscious selves literally don't know what we know or feel what we feel." This is surely what we call "denial." It masquerades as ignorance; But it's actually the opposite. I always wondered when denial helped or hurt those guilt-laden prison inmates.
Continuing on page 43, "This is particularly crucial when you have discovered that a part of you is in deep denial and as the resulting sense of deep regret of your behavior..." you begin to choose the better way of accepting responsibility for misdeeds. This actually became true in the slowly developing remorse and acceptance of men who spent years of spiritual healing on "Death Row" at The GA Diagnostic Center!
I become more and more enamored by her Menus of Creativity and Connection! When interviewing certain inmates I could never understand why, "I see in each of them a human being of such breath taking beauty and value I can hardly stand it." Often as she added, this was the case for those I did not even like! From the reverently retired Chaplain Fred W Hood
Average customer rating:
- Disappointed
- Appealing, honest, brave
- Wonderful intro to Buddhism
- Coming in to yourself
|
How Not to Be Afraid of Your Own Life: Opening Your Heart to Confidence, Intimacy, and Joy
Susan Piver
Manufacturer: St. Martin's Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
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Motivational
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Personal Transformation
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ASIN: 0312355963
Release Date: 2007-04-03 |
Book Description
How Not to Be Afraid of Your Own Life is an inspirational and practical guide to conquering fear and embracing joy.
Although you may not realize it fear is getting in your way and stopping you from connecting with others, realizing the significance of your life, and finding fulfillment and joy. It doesn’t have to be this way. Susan Piver has the key to breaking down the barriers of fear that are holding you back. Using simple meditation techniques, based in Buddhist principles, she will teach you how to:
-Open your heart to relationships
-Gain the confidence to pursue a meaningful career
-Achieve perspective to live your authentic life
With a contemporary approach to ancient practices Susan teaches you how to incorporate principles of meditation and mindfulness into your everyday life. This isn’t about enlightenment on a mountaintop it is a way of bringing intelligence and courage to the way you relate to yourself, your family, your friends, and your life.
How Not to be Afraid of Your Own Life features the “7-Day Freedom from Fear Meditation Program” a guided journey into discovering what may be holding you back from experiencing life to the fullest. Using meditation, journaling, and other reflective practices you will find a respite from everyday pressures and learn techniques to help you re-enter your busy life refreshed, renewed, and ready to live the life you were born to.
Advance Praise for How Not to be Afraid of Your Own Life
“I have long recommended meditation as central to a healthy lifestyle. Susan Piver teaches this important practice in a trustworthy and practical way – and shows us how to use its lessons to create a fearless life.”
-Andrew Weil, M.D., author of Healthy Aging
“Susan Piver has worked her magic again. She gives us an everyday approach to Buddhism, so that all of us can benefit from the wisdom of this magnificent philosophy. In this wacky world we all need practices and perspectives that ground us in the here and now. Navigate and swim the river more gracefully with Susan's advice.”
-Rodney Yee, author of Yoga: The Poetry of the Body
“In direct and playful language, Susan Piver’s new book translates Buddhist wisdom to show its relevance to daily life.”
-Stephen Cope, author of Yoga and the Quest for the True Self
“Susan Piver has written a beautiful book about how to overcome fear and be empowered in your life based on her years of Buddhist practice.”
-Judith Orloff, MD, author of Positive Energy: 10 Extraordinary Prescriptions for Transforming Fatigue, Stress, and Fear into Vibrance, Strength, and Love
“How we can live a life more awake, present and connected without the impediments of beliefs, ideas, and fears created from past experience? In simple but startlingly clear language, Piver takes the mystery out of Buddhism, and makes it relevant to our struggles to be happy in the 21st century.”
-Mark Hyman, M.D., author of Ultrametabolism: The Simple Plan for Automatic Weight Loss
Susan Piver is the author of the bestselling The Hard Questions: 100 Essential Questions to Ask Before You Say “I Do”. She has been a guest on The Oprah Winfrey Show, CNN, CBS The Early Show, The Today Show and featured in The Wall Street Journal, Time, Modern Bride, O Magazine, and Redbook. She has trained in Buddhist practice for ten years, is a graduate of Buddhist seminary, and is an authorized meditation teacher. She is the meditation expert on www.drweil.com and www.healthyageing.com. She lives in Arlington, Massachusetts. Visit her website at www.susanpiver.com
Customer Reviews:
Disappointed.......2007-08-08
After reading the other reviews of this book I was really looking forward to reading it. Unfortunately, I found the book rather superficial and without much meaningful content. Some of the really important ideas, such as being able to welcome difficulties in life, the author just skims over. After reading the book, I felt that I was actual more in tune than the author herself without dedicating years on reflection and buddhist practice.
I don't think this book could change anyone life's although it may get someone interested in learning more about meditation and mental reflection.
Appealing, honest, brave.......2007-07-30
This is an excellent book on Buddhism that weaves Susan's own stories and challenges into the fabric of a meditation practice.
I found it accessible, straightforward, and compelling.
Wonderful intro to Buddhism.......2007-07-13
Susan Piver's book is a wonderful introduction to Buddhism for the beginner. She explains the basic meditations of Buddhist practice with a fresh, light approach. Many Buddhist meditation texts are bogged down in background, and she skips the unnecessary details to cut to the chase. She is able to use references to the everyday situations most people encounter, and apply principles in the book.
This is my "go-to" book for my practice and I highly recommend it.
Coming in to yourself.......2007-04-28
When I read the title of this book I was a little taken aback--Afraid of my own life? Could I be? But Piver addresses issues and fears that are common themes in life--fears that are part of the human experience--and shows us in a methodically, and linear way, how to acknowledge and then diffuse those fears, by facing them head on. She disects some basic ideas in a very clear, direct, friendly and accessible way. It is as though Ms. Piver is sitting down to a cup of tea with you, to be that friend that listens and affirms all the crappy stuff that can happen to us, but then goes on to show us that by using the ancient practice of meditiation, ultimately, we can be ok with it. Or perhaps more accurately, it can be ok with us.
The meditation instructions are clear, specific and very accessible--and the 7 day meditation program looks like a great way take a committed practice of meditation to the next level. I'll say, it has inspired ME to get my butt to the cushion more, since reading the book.
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