Spirituality Books

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Spirituality Books sorted by Average customer review: high to low .

Out of Solitude: Three Meditations on the Christian Life

Published in Paperback by Ave Maria Press (2004-07)

Author: Henri J. M. Nouwen

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Average review score:

A nice little book for your own spiritual retreat.

Helpful Votes: 14 out of 14 total.
Review Date: 2001-09-09

This is a small book, almost a pamphlet, so it works very nicely for readings during a quiet retreat. Nouwen reminds us of the importance of solitude for service. The book is composed of a few sermons he gave at Yale and is one of those books where you'll find yourself wanting to excerpt quotes to stick on the wall by your computer. I'll give you one as an example: "It is in this solitude that we discover that being is more important than having, and that we are worth more than the result of our efforts." The book is an affirmation.

Great book for contemplation

Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2007-05-27

During my fast, and contemplation, times and again, I'm drawn to this little book.

It is a great book. This little book slowly, bit by bit, through 3 meditations on Christ, directs my mind from the "secular world" to Christ. It draws me to silence, to face myself, to God, and to caring for others and hope for the future.

It takes me to a journey and after that, I am filled with constance and strength.

This work will challenge your walk with Christ

Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2006-06-28

Outstanding work. This book will cause you to stop and look at your relationship with Christ. Nouwen's words will touch you deeply in your inner man.

Great read, information is valuable in all aspects of life.

Helpful Votes: 6 out of 7 total.
Review Date: 2001-07-02

This was a very informative and a very simple read. In a nutshell, it defines how important solitude is in terms of how we can't get caught up impressing life judges. Also, "It teaches us", not to become restless of our actions for our only way of aquiring self pride.

Henri also shows people how to be glad by applying the example of jesus to your life. Also, to deal with the challenges which God applies for you, only to make youself stronger.

I find it amazing that he could put all this very enlighting material into this very short read. I recommend it to anyone who wants to know more about life. To various people who want to find the ticket to extreme happiness, this book is for you!

A small, but loud volume

Helpful Votes: 7 out of 7 total.
Review Date: 2000-10-28

This book spoke deeply to me. As a parent with young children, I have often felt guilty for needing "my space." Nouwen removes my feelings of guilt and selfishness by explaining this need for time alone as being a spiritual need where growth and connection with God are possible. Contains few pages, but a big message.

Out of the Mouths of Grandbabes: Bedtime Stories for Grandparents

Published in Paperback by NavPress Publishing Group (2007-02-22)

Author: Donna Vander Griend

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Becoming as a child...

Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-09-17

God uses author Donna Vander Griend to interpret spiritual truths from the hearts of children. She gives theological teeth to digest and savor what Jesus might have meant when he said, "unless you become as children you will never inherit the kingdom of heaven". Her tender stories give us a glimpse into kingdom life and invite us to...become as a child with an inheritance of heaven and a loving Heavenly Father.

Every grandma should have one...every parent, too, for that matter!

Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-09-09

This is a delightfullly "light yet significant" book all grandparents and parents should read. Gentle ideas to inspire you! Great gift for a new grandmother!

Buy one for yourself and one for someone else!!

Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-09-06

This little book makes an excellent "grandma gift", hostess gift, or just a "I'm thinking of you" book. Easy to put in your purse. I especially liked the way it made me start noticing little things my own grandchildren did.

"Become as a Little Child. . ."

Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-09-06

What a beautiful reminder this book is to all of us to "become as a little child. . ." and trust in the goodness of God. I am reminded each day, through the simple, yet profound expressions of my own fifteen grandchildren, of the wonders of God's love. Donna has put it into words in a beautiful and poignant way, but more than that. This book imparts lessons without lecturing and is filled with joy and laughter. I love it, as I love the whole remarkable Vander Griend clan.

A Happy and Touching Book, A Good Cheer-you-up Gift

Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-09-04

This book, subtitled "Bedtime Stories for Grandparents", really IS good for bedtime stories, and not just for grandparents. It offers a different and hopeful look at the lessons of life through the words of small ones, and finishes your day offering a good meditation on which to ponder. I have found it a particularly good gift book for new grandparents, new parents and recuperating patients, all of whom have enthused over the joyful messages and deft writing.

The Practicing Mind: Bringing Discipline and Focus Into Your Life

Published in Paperback by Mountain Sage Publishing (2006-03-01)

Author: Thomas M. Sterner

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Average review score:

Zenzibar

Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-02-28

Fantastic application of Zen meditation to everyday life. I am so much calmer after reading it.

A guide to the concept of present moment awareness

Helpful Votes: 2 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2007-09-06

Accomplished musician Thomas M. Sterner presents The Practicing Mind: Bringing Discipline and Focus Into Your Life, a guide to the concept of present moment awareness - something embraced as a vital part of a fulfilled life in Eastern cultures, yet relatively unknown in Western cultures. Chapters address how to foster desirable habits in oneself, improve skills through training and focus, teach and learn from children, and much more. "In summary, it comes down to a few simple rules. Keep yourself process-oriented. Stay in the present. Make the process the goal and use the overall goal as a rudder to steer your efforts. Be deliberate, have an intention about what you want to accomplish, and be aware of that intention. Doing these things will eliminate the judgments and emotions that come from a product-oriented or results-oriented mind." Highly recommended.

Userful, realistic and hopeful

Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2007-06-05

I don't always appreciate self help books but I found this book down to earth, based in reality and something I could relate to. I didn't feel patronized or preached at, but instead felt the author's perspective was actually helpful to me. It made me feel more calm and also hopeful. I'd recommend this book. It's enlightening and useful.

Your Last Self Help Book?

Helpful Votes: 5 out of 5 total.
Review Date: 2007-12-03

Although I have bought and read literally hundreds of self help books in all categories through Amazon, the Practicing Mind by Thomas M. Sterner is by far the 1st book that has compelled me to write my very first Amazon review.

Their are many things that make this book stand out. It is very short, with absolutely, no-fluff or fillings, with the result that every word and every phrase really counts. Sterner's tone is also very down to earth and easy to understand without the use of any pretentious words. The book also has a few very good illustrations and stories to clarify the concepts presented in the book.

But what I think makes the book really practical is Sterner's realization and revelation that the key to success in any area of life is to acquire self-discipline through non-judgmental concentrated practice. Now, I know that this doesn't sound at all like a very profound or new revelation. But if you have been searching through hundreds of self help books - like I have been for the last few years - for the one key ( or system) that would enable me to become successful in improving my spirituality, my role as husband and father, time-management, health and exercise, writing, entrepreneurship and my other personal areas of interest that are of value to me - than the Practicing Mind will be of great value to you.

The Practicing Mind - is not a panacea to cure it all - but for me it turned out to be an amazingly simple and effective system to help me to systematically and measurably improve all the areas of interest in my life.

I highly recommend the Practicing Mind to anyone that has been searching for the key - no matter if you are just starting out or you already own hundreds or even thousands of self-help books - to order this book and put it into practice

I also highly recommend you to get to also get the audio version - as over the years I have realized that the best way to internalize the paradigms like the one presented in this book - is to listen to them over and over again preferably on a daily basis. The audio CD is read by Mr. Sterner himself and the author has a very calm and pleasant voice that helps transmits his ideas perfectly in the audio book version of this book.

Get The Practicing Mind. It might be the last personal self-help book that you ever order.....

Bring peace back into your life!

Helpful Votes: 7 out of 7 total.
Review Date: 2007-06-29

I was leery when I first opened this book but found myself drawn to it and suddenly done reading it. Creating your own habits is something we all need to do, but often forget that this is a choice or something we have control over. I am going to start practicing the "slowness" chapter today. I have done this in the past but it always gets away from me, and I know it works. Just taking this one step can lead to a calmer, less frenzied lifestyle which in iteself gives you more patience not only with yourself and your job but with your family and friends as well. Bring peace into your life and the people you share your life with, read this book and practice some if not all of the tips and techniques that Thomas Sterner shares with you.

Prayer Starters for Busy Moms: How to Pray All Day and Still Put the Laundry Away

Published in Hardcover by Bethany House (2006-04-01)

Author: Tracy Klehn

List price: $12.99

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Average review score:

Busy woman

Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-01-27

This book is for busy moms...but I'm not a mom and I've found this book to be very helpful. I love using the book to meditate or to simply tote around with me through the day to pray and talk to God. A Wonderful book.

One to read over and over...

Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-07-25

This little book was great. I was able to keep in on my kitchen counter and just browse through it whenever I found a few spare minutes. It has a ribbon bookmark to keep your place, but it's also nice because you don't have to necessarily read it in order.

Great prayer book

Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2006-08-25

This book offers practical tips for maintaining your spiritual self and coping with the demands of a family. Lots to think about.

Just what I needed!!

Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2006-07-12

Having known Tracy at my church for almost 3 years, she was the one who actually made me see prayer "out of the box". This wonderful book takes that conversation to a higher level and it allows others to benefit from a more personal relationship with Christ by understanding that prayer doesn't have to be a formalized process. We can talk to our Father all day long!

Great for new moms

Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2006-05-28

This lovely little book has hundreds of ideas about how to squeeze prayer into your busy day. It's a great gift book--and I plan to give one to my daughter who just made me a grandma for the first time.
--Author of 20 books, including PrayerWalk, Daily PrayerWalk, Prayer Changes Teens, PrayerStreaming and My Prayer Buddy Devotional

Prayers for the Domestic Church: A Handbook for Worship in the Home

Published in Paperback by Forest of Peace Publishing (1989-09)

Author: Edward Hays

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Average review score:

Prayers for the Domestic Church

Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-04-15

This book was suggested to me by my Pastor and has served me well. There are many good prayers and blessings in the book. A good resource for any Clergy.

Prayers for the Domestic Church

Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-03-26

My family and I have for many, many years used and enjoyed Fr. Ed Hay's book, Prayers for the Domestic Church and have gifted many, many couples with a copy as a wedding present for engaged couples that we sponsor for Marriage Preparation. As Director for our Diocesan Family Life Office, we also advocate for families using this prayer book. Just yesterday I recieved a phone message from a newly married couple saying how much this prayer book has touched their lives and thanking my husband and I for it. I have to say that I really miss the format of the original way the book was published and presently do not like the reformating of the book; maybe I'll get used to it. Is there a chance that you would be publishing the book in both formats? I am assuming that the change of format is to keep the cost of the book at a reasonable price. Either way, it is a DEFINITE all time favorite and will continue to be for many generations.

A great source of creative and inspiring prayers!

Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-01-01

Although now out of print, there are used copies available, and I highly recommend this wonderful book by Fr. Edward Hays. My copy, which a dear friend sent to me many years ago is now dog eared and worn from much use.

I have borrowed and adapted many of these prayers for use in a vast variety of liturgies, both in my parishes and at home. Fr. Hays' creative use of words will stimulate your own creativity and open your soul to the Holy Spirit.

Fr. Hays has a new book out which I also highly recommend: Chasing the Joy, Musings on Life in a Bittersweet World Actually, I have found everything I have read by Hays to be filled with such a richness that I stand in awe of his writing and the many gifts God has given him.

The Rev. Dr. Prentice Kinser III, Author of LIMITLESS LIVING, A Guide to Unconventional Spiritual Exploration and Growth

Sources of Domestic Liturgy

Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-11-17

This review refers to the 2007 edition of Prayers for the Domestic Church, designed to help those in every style of household to grow spiritually and become more closely united. In his preface to the new edition, Father Hays reminds us that the purpose of blessing objects, places, and special family times is not to change them, "but to awaken us to the already abiding Presence of God within them."

As background, Hays traces the evolution of the primal church, the home, with hearth and dinner table as its altars and family elders as its ministers. Today, he writes, we are again drawn to the home as a basic religious center for prayer and worship. He offers guidelines for getting started, such as establishing a prayer space and becoming aware of events and occasions as "sources of the domestic liturgy." The work is organized into 12 categories, each with a brief introduction followed by a variety of prayers. The section on the home calendar with its prayers and blessings for "celebrations of remembering" comprises more than 20 entries including a New Year's blessing for clocks and calendars. Other sections address meeting the sacred in our lives, praying in gratitude and praise, and devotions to Mary. A 20-plus page section near the end of the book consists of morning and evening prayers for each day of the week. Additional chapters are devoted to prayers of reconciliation within the home and blessings in times of sickness and death. Hays has also provided a topical index (for example, meal blessings and thanksgiving prayers).

Initially this work will be a rich resource of itself, but with time it will inspire original blessings, prayers, and rituals unique to those who create them.

Outstanding Prayer Book

Helpful Votes: 3 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2006-03-14

Over the years we have bought about 15 copies of this book. Others see us using it and ask to borrow it. Of course it never returns. We have used it for many occasions and have alwsys found the right prayer. Most of all it lives up to its' title "Prayers for the Domestic Church".

I recommend it without reservation.

Deacon Bob Tomonto
Miami, FL

Preparing My Heart for Advent: A Spiritual Pilgrimage for the Christmas Season

Published in Paperback by AMG Publishers (2005-11)

Author: Ann Marie Stewart

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Average review score:

Preparing My Heart Gives Christmas New Meaning For Me

Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2005-11-13

In her wonderfully clear style, Ann Stewart uses beautifully and simply stated word-pictures to give new life to the familiar old story of the first Christmas. As she reintroduces me to the the story's priciple figures, I'm attracted anew to long-forgotten details filling all of it with fresh new meaning. My wife and I are using Ann's book as our daily devotional guide leading up to Christmas. Has Christmas grown dull and cold to you? Let Ann help you Prepare Your Heart for Advent. You'll be forever glad you did.

Preparing my Heart for Advent - a unique Advent journey

Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2007-01-16

Our women's Bible study group studied this book this year. It was a wonderful spiritual journey; however, the amount of study involved surprised us as we were expecting it to lessen our stress load - not increase it. We ended up taking 10 weeks to complete the study because there was so much spiritual food plus interesting facts about our favorite Christmas carols. The daily devotionals for December - January 6th were an added blessing.

A Joy to the World

Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2005-12-08

Christmas for me just comes rolling in, with many to do's and a longing for the "joy" that is suppose to come with all those to do's. This book truly prepared my heart in so many ways, my Advent season will never be the same this year, and for years to come. The book led me to often feel like a detective sifting through many parts of the Bible, only to discover over and over again God's perfect plan and his saving grace for the world through Jesus. If you are one who is searching for a Christmas Joy that is deep and true, read this book, and it will lead you to a Joy that lasts. A book I will re-read every year!

Preparing My Heart for Advent is a Treat for the Busy Christian

Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2005-10-28

This book is a delight because the author recognizes our desire to approach Chritmas with joy and the crazy demands placed on all of that at that busy time of the year. I love the concept of "preparing my heart" in November when things are more calm and then reaping the rewards in December. I strongly recommend this book!

What is the meaning Christmas?

Helpful Votes: 3 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2005-10-28

Sometimes in all of our good intentions, we get wrapped up in the preparations: baking goodies, meals, traditions, gifts and commercialism that has become part of the holiday. We forget to prepare our HEARTS as well. How ideal for Ann to delight us with the Word every day of November, when the stress and the chaos is beginning to close in on us. This study is a wonderful journey back in time. With scripture and a thought provoking lesson, Ann sets the stage for the most beautfiul story ever written, the true meaning of Christmas - the birth of Christ! The study is written from a woman's perspective with our unique questions and concerns. It is sure to capture your heart, and light a flame for our Savior. You will not be the same after this book. It has changed the way I approach the holiday season. I am filled with a joy and peace that can only be found in Jesus Christ. I wish the same for you this Christmas. Please take the time for this study. You will be richly blessed.

Psychology of the Future: Lessons from Modern Consciousness Research (S U N Y Series in Transpersonal and Humanistic Psychology)

Published in Hardcover by State University of New York Press (2000-07)

Author: Stanislav Grof

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Average review score:

Consciousness research on the cutting edge

Helpful Votes: 16 out of 18 total.
Review Date: 2003-09-12

I first encountered Stanislav Grof in the late 'seventies at a seminar held in Pacific Grove, California. He was a featured speaker, and to say that I was impressed would be an understatement.

In this book, he discusses transpersonal psychology, involving a shift in awareness. Our psychologists and psychiatrists need to engage themselves in this transformational system and get outside the accepted paradigm of the current model of reality that scientists work within today, accepting certain basic assumptions, and move on to the equivalent of the quantum theory of consciousness.

He points out in another of his books, Beyond the Brain, that the Newtonian/Cartesian paradigm (a system of thought based on the work of Isaac Newton and Rene Descartes) is still accepted and the orthodox foundation of precepts in use in psychiatry, psychology, anthropology and medicine. He points out that physics has moved on to a new paradigm: relativity and quantum theory and beyond, while the previously named sciences have languished, and opines that it is time for psychiatrists and psychologists to re-examine their fundamental belief structure as well.

Grof said, at the seminar, that he was originally--in Czechoslovakia where he originated--a dyed-in-the-wool Freudian, until he began to perceive difficulties with that approach. He grew from there. He was one of the original medical investigators to use d-lysergic acid diethylamide in serious psychiatric research, from which he derived some astonishing results.

Grof was formerly Chief of Psychiatric Research at the Maryland Psychiatric Research Center and Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. He is no lightweight airhead, but rather is a highly qualified, credentialed and credible researcher. This and his other books are well worth your time, if you have the necessary vocabulary and the scientific background to benefit from them.

Grof makes a bold argument that understanding of the perinatal and transpersonal levels changes much of how we view both mental illness and mental health. His research in transpersonal experience evokes serious questions into such areas as reincarnation and the spritual side of the human being.

Joseph (Joe) Pierre,

author of The Road to Damascus: Our Journey Through Eternity
and other books

Consciousness explorer

Helpful Votes: 16 out of 17 total.
Review Date: 2002-09-15

a wise, hopeful, enlightened work from a truly qualified scientific humanist who has helped many for so many years. When reading Stan Grof, one's mind is treated to elegant research, philosophic musings, and poetic, smoothly flowing language that proves entertaining in its own right.

Grof builds a carefully laid out tapestry of thought unlike any other writer. Boldly going into dimensions that the orthodoxy fears, Grof consistently shows us that the best findings are often the result of adventurous undertakings.

One must truly venture into uncharted territories in order to discover hidden, powerful forces in the world.

All of Grof's work makes for a rich intellectual and spiritual treasure that will be edifying humankind indefinitely.

an archaic revival

Helpful Votes: 2 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2002-08-25

As our planet is threatened by wars, terrorism-violence environmental degredation, the only antidote is turning back to the roots individully or in groups and bringing back the archaic revival, bringing back the message of the ancient traditions. Stanislav Grof does this elegantly with the eyes of a scientist. This book will require the mainstream Psychiatrists to re-construct their worldview. It is a detailed exploration and a new explanation of the nature of human consciousness and the nature of reality

Excellent!

Helpful Votes: 4 out of 7 total.
Review Date: 2005-05-26

In my opinion, Stanislav Grof is the best, or at least one of the best, in his field of study. I have read most of his books and participated in a Holotropic Breathwork seminar weekend in Vermont. I highly recommend any educated person to familiarize him/herself with Grof's work (all of his books very informative and really make one think) and try a Holotropic Breathwork session.

An easy introduction to Grof

Helpful Votes: 9 out of 11 total.
Review Date: 2003-09-20

This was my introduction to stanislav's ideas. This book is almost a chapter by chapter introduction to all of Grof's different areas of research and writing. The written experiences of holotropic states are entertaining and informative. This book adds a needed understanding to psychology by examining consciousness around the time of birth. The author is obviously well versed on many topics, and presents sound logic and arguments throughout. Holotropic breathwork might be very useful for anyone suffering from their personality (especially to those that are fear based). This book is a relative easy introduction to Grof's ideas, and a welcomed step to combining science with unbiased spirituality.

Rasta Heart: A Journey Into One Love

Published in Paperback by One Love Press (2001-10)

Author: Robert Roskind

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Average review score:

A trip to Jamaica in your hands!

Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-03-14

I haven't put this book down since it arrived in the mail! You will love 'meeting' several Rastas and hear their personal philosophies which are each unique and yet all based on One Love. Learn why Ital (natural and/or organic) foods and herbs are soooo important. Sychronicity happens!

Your kidding right !

Helpful Votes: 2 out of 6 total.
Review Date: 2007-12-24

I know Jahmayka and the Rastas... I love the island and its people, sweet reggae music ! Rastafarian is a system of belief that people living in extreme poverty have found to make their hardship tolerable.

Where there is no hope,
one must invent hope.
- Albert Camus

But to suggest that this is the way to a better soceity for the world at large is delussional !
Though Babylon ( Eurocentricism ) has played a role in much of the dark history and disparity that exists today, it has also developed many parts of the world that have just begun to show the potential we have as a species if we can get past our tribal differences. Rastas who are not all alike, ( very individual and varied personalities ) will reason about one love in many different terms however it may suit them at the moment but in general tend to smoke herb and commiserate about their situation. Creating these roles that are just as fictitous as the ones that they denounce is not uplifting at all. Read Eckhart Tolle if you want some insight into reality. Smoke a spliff and listen to reggae riddims if you want to escape it.

Otherwise this is a pretty entertaining book that I enjoyed. The historical accounts of Rastafarian beliefs and Jamacian history are consistent with other accounts I have read. Some of the statements about Marijuana are questionable.

Breath taking and life changing!

Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2007-07-25

This book is an amazingly written book that has you wanting to read more. The views and interviews of the Rastas will have you spiritualy moved and emotionally involved. One of a kind book that could never be duplicated.

A Magnificent Journey

Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2007-04-17

Enjoy and immerse yourself in the ways of a Rastaman. The author literally makes you feel like your right there smoking a spliff with the rastas during a reasoning(conversation) session. This book is extremely inspirational you truly feel the love coming through the book. I reccommend it to all looking to learn about Rastafari and take a look at living FREE out of babylon!!!

JAH!!! RASTAFARI!!

Excellent book; one reservation

Helpful Votes: 6 out of 6 total.
Review Date: 2006-08-29

After spending some time in West Africa where I came across many inspirational Rastas, I came back to America wanting to learn more about this lifestyle. I found Roskind's book to be VERY firsthand and informative; after all, he speaks with dozens of Rastas with a whole range of views on Rastafari and One Love. The book was brilliantly written (with a lot of editing errors, however) and a great read for someone who is a novice to this faith. However, I do have one reservation about the author himself. Throughout the book he and the people he interviews criticize Babylon and all its materialism yet during his many trips to Jamaica he stays at the finest resorts (Babylon), likely owned by white non-Jamaicans (Babylon), and he talks about how he spends days here and there snorkling, laying out, eating, etc. (Babylon). I am not trying to point any fingers, I would just assume that if someone was trying to minimize one's materialistic desires and really experience Rastafari than one would at least stay at less plush resorts - especially when in a developing country. Other than that, an excellent read.

Renewal in the Wilderness: A Spiritual Guide to Connecting with God in the Natural World

Published in Paperback by Skylight Paths Publishing (2007-05)

Author: John Lionberger

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Average review score:

Renewal In The Wilderness

Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2008-04-27

In this book, Renewal In The Wilderness, John Lionberger makes the case for the spiritual connection and renewal that that is frequently found in wilderness and outdoor settings. John Lionberger draws on his own experience of spiritual renewal in the wilderness, his experiences guiding others on wilderness trips, and the wisdom of many religious traditions. Though Lionberger is obviously deeply centered in the Christian tradition, his writing, and the trips he leads are nothing if not inclusive, and embrace a multiplicity of faiths and non-faiths. For anyone who has ever wondered why anyone would voluntarily subject oneself to the physical sacrifices inherent in Wilderness travel, John Lionberger details in a systematic yet eloquent manner, the reasons we might all want to consider such sacrifices.

As a lover of the outdoors myself, and a person who continually finds spiritual sustenance in outdoor and wilderness settings I did not need any convincing of the case John Lionberger is making. Having said that, I really enjoyed reading Renewal in the Wilderness. It was wonderful to hear someone being so articulate and writing so beautifully about something that is so near and dear to my heart.

I would strongly recommend this book to anyone, from avid wilderness fanatics to those who have never imagined themselves leaving the comforts of home or the local Holiday Inn. If you are in the latter category, John Lionberger might just convince you to give the wilderness a chance

Ditto

Helpful Votes: 1 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2008-03-19

What a great feeling to read a book and feel like you know exactly what the author is trying to convey. John does a great job portraying the potential for renewal in the wilderness. On Adventure Rabbi trips, people often ask, "Is anyone else doing anything like you do?" Now I can tell them about John.

- Rabbi Jamie Korngold, the Adventure Rabbi, author God in the Wilderness: Rediscovering the Spirituality of the Great Outdoors with the Adventure Rabbi

Resolve to read and go!

Helpful Votes: 2 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2007-12-07

The end of the year, the near start of a new one. Among your resolutions-'do something to enrich and enliven my living!' What better than to buy and read this book, and then join John on a trip. This book is a wonder-filled story of his project(by the same name) in which people of varied ages, backgrounds and vocations are carefully encouraged and supported to ' connect with god in the natural world'.

My wife and I have paddled 'into the wilderness'each September for the last decade( we're 65+) and can attest to the validity of John's conviction and method. Read the book- and sign up! Ernie Harris

Even if you don't believe....

Helpful Votes: 2 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2007-09-28

I started reading this book after a trip to Alaska that has had a profound impact on my view of the world, and found that the author perfectly articulated the thoughts and feelings that I suspect overcome people - or at least some people - in the presence of the transcendent beauty of Nature. This book is totally captivating in its leading the way to let each of us examine how we feel about Something Bigger Than Us - what a great phrase for those of us on a new path as we find our way, if we are lucky, to a richer and more tranquil life. I have never been so moved by any book as I have by this one. Just read it!!!

Wonderfully thoughtful work

Helpful Votes: 2 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2007-09-25

I enjoyed this book tremendously. It is thoughfully written by a previous agnostic, who does a wonderful job of describing his experiences of God's Grace in the wilderness. The book is well researched and draws upon the experiences, teachings and traditions of not only Christian theology, but of many others as well. I believe anyone would benefit from reading this fine work, and even more so by accepting its invitation to venture into the wilderness.

A Retreat With Brother Lawrence and the Russian Pilgrim: Praying Ceaselessly (Retreat With-- Series)

Published in Paperback by Saint Anthony Messenger Press (2000-04)

Author: Kerry Walters

List price: $9.95

New price: $5.33
Used price: $5.09

Average review score:

Super!

Helpful Votes: 13 out of 14 total.
Review Date: 2001-04-06

I wish Walters has written this book 25 years ago, when I was struggling (fruitlessly) with prayer. My failure to make any sort of meaningful connection soured me on the whole thing for the next twenty years. Walters hits the nail on the head in this step-by-step retreat on prayer/meditation. The problem I made years ago, and the problem too many other people make, is that we try too hard when it comes to praying. Letting go is a lot more difficult than grabbing onto. Anybody who wants a richer prayer life will cherish this little book.

A Primer in centering prayer

Helpful Votes: 14 out of 15 total.
Review Date: 2001-04-15

This little book is a reflective how-to manual on continuous prayer/meditation. It takes the reader step by step to the point where he or she is ready to practice what today we would call the centering prayer. It was the text for a workshop on prayer I recently attended, and all of the participants agreed it was a great help. It's also a great guide to books and movies that deal with prayer and meditation.

I've read it twice

Helpful Votes: 19 out of 20 total.
Review Date: 2001-03-17

I don't much like your typical retreat or howtodoit spirituality book, but this one is different. The best way to describe it is a Zen approach to Xtian prayer, where the reader/retreatist discovers that he's the riddle that needs to be solved. Very good. (although I can't figure out what the description listed by amazon.com has to do with the book. seems like it should be for another book)

Excellent!!

Helpful Votes: 22 out of 23 total.
Review Date: 2001-03-16

Where else can you find Monty Python, C.S. Lewis, and the Kabbalah, all wrapped up in a single book? +Praying Ceaselessly+ is a gem. Anybody who has tried to meditate but quit after a few sessions ought to read it. You'll get some fantastic tips on mind-control and prayer, and along the way you'll meet two men worth knowing--Brother Lawrence and the Russian Pilgrim. I really recommend this one. It's funny in places, sorta tearful in others, and inspiring everywhere.

Super!

Helpful Votes: 3 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2001-04-06