Meditation Books

What's going on? I have been giving this little gem to my kids' teachers every year for more years than I care to count. (For one thing, the price is right. For another thing, every teacher has really appreciated the book--and the other one, RECESS, that followed this one.)

Someone told me that another publisher is going to put the two books together and bring them out with a new title. Does anyone know if this is true? Here's hoping it is. If you know anything about this, please pass the info along to the rest of us. Thank you.

The simplicity and the power of individual situations that face every teacher at some time are heart wrenching and heart warming. Elspeth Campbell Murphy illuminates the mysteries of the profession.

A serious expression of prayer for every kind of student and every kind of occasion in a teacher's life. For those who meditate--excellent reflections. For those who don't--just enough to make you start.

Recently as a new faculty member, my unofficial mentor(who's in her fifties like myself) loaned me her treasured copy of "Chalkdust". It was a gift to her from her dearest friend and colleague in 1989. Elsa handed it to me during these autumn weeks filled with stress; intense stress that is not from adolescent hormones nor wiggling bodies, but from an administration in chaos after the firing of our beloved principal. The militaristic VP's and inexperienced new principal are most teachers' worst nightmare . . . and the souls adrift amidst these chaotic moments are those of our students. ----- Since the pre-dawn hours are my favorite for lesson planning and for arriving in my classroom just as the building opens, I find myself uncharacteristically lagging at home like a mopey teen unwilling to go to school. In fact I've considered leaving the education field all together, even though I am among members of our family's fourth generation of teachers. "Chalkdust" reminds me of the deepest motives for following this challenging professional path: supporting the growth and well-being of shorter younger humans, as well as remaining invested in the learning/teaching dynamic. ----- As a special educator my wonderful students are the learning disabled and emotionally disturbed kids that drive other fabulous pros to screaming tears. The prayer "For the Child Who Lies and Steals" counsels me that my two squirreliest boys are in need of a personal helper like someone from television's "Touched By An Angel". Sure, they're the only two who willingly stay after school to help me redo my bulletin boards for open house, but there are always at least two things missing afterwards. My gentle confrontation the next day brings a sly embarrassed confession from each one, while leaving me utterly confused. Later as I clean colored chalkdust off my navy blazer, I whisper a plea for help for these two. ----- Remarkable Sunny is autistic and since kindergarten has gone through neighborhood schools with the same group of kids. Now in eighth grade, he is not accepted by others as a friend openly, though he is oddly loved by many. Often I read the meditation "For the Rejected Child" for both this young man and for the Sunny in me that feels so akin to this boy's sensitivity and loneliness. ----- My world is filled with educators who are: beginning as aides, like nineteen year-old Omar, my right-hand man in the classroom; my sister, a veteran teacher who tutors dyslexic children as she battles cancer; octogenarian retired teachers; and colleagues in a variety of stages of their teaching careers. Mother (once a music teacher) and I have agreed to buy fifty copies of Chalkdust this Christmas . . . gifts for this holiday season and treasures for future friends who may need encouragement in the middle of chaos.

When I began teaching high school English fourteen years ago, I quickly learned that my perceptions and the realities of teaching did not quite jive. Had it not been for one of my former teachers taking me under her wing, I doubt I'd be in the profession still today. It was a copy of "Chalkdust" that she gave me that served as an inspiration for continuing. Every child a teacher could possibly meet in a career is addressed in this book. My mentor marked particular passages for "In the Middle of a Bad Day" and "For Confidence" and suddenly I found that I was not the only one who felt insecure and frustrated. I think when one begins teaching, she often feels she's on her own-that the support system is not there. This book helps provide the encouragement and the vision to continue after a particularly disheartening day.

I really enjoy the Osteen's books and this devotional has been a blessing to me. It offers gentle encouragement. It is not as "meaty" perhaps as the Copeland's devotional, but nevertheless has been helpful.

Excellent and a very inspirational book, it helped me alot, i wish it does the same for others .. enjoy !!!

Choosing Life: One Day at a Time by Dodie Osteen is a must own devotional book. I really enjoy Osteen's writing style and language. It's comforting, inspiring yet challenging. Each day will provide you with Dodies' personal insight on life and/or Scripture and will follow up with a prayer that will re-energize your faith and lead you in to the magnificent presence of the Holy Spirit.

There are many family members and friends in my life who love the Osteen's. Choosing Life is the perfect Christmas gift and wedding gift
for those you care for with it's gold binding and beautiful paper.

Take a few moments a day to relax with a cup of herbal tea, and Choose Life!

Happy reading and pay it forward!

Reviewed by Marina Woods for GoodGirlBookClubOnline | The GOOD GIRL Book Club Worldwide | GOOD GIRL Magazine | GOOD GIRL Live!

As a widow I have been having a hard time even wanting to live. The title of the book caught my eye then I noticed it was written by Joel Osteen's Mom, Dodie Osteen, who is also a widow. I figured "Why not give it a try?"

It has been a delightful way to start each day -- quick, easy reading, and thought provoking. I have used other daily devotional books in the past, but none has met my needs the way this book has.

I have found Dodie Osteen's daily devotionals to be very comforting. I agree with her philosophy and her writing is thought provoking.

In this inspiring book, Ginny Anderson has created a blueprint for creating a program to appreciate the sacred and ecological dimensions of the wild and magical places in your region. The form of her devotion comes entirely from her deep and enduring love of the beauty of seven extraordinary sites in the San Francisco area. However, readers from any ecosystem on the planet will find inspiration and deeply wise guidance for the in-depth exploration of the wonder of their own area.

Among other techniques, Anderson provides this stunning model by

1. delving into the flora and fauna of each region through sensory and kinesthetic exercises designed to awaken understanding of your interior experience of a place as well as its exterior landscape

2. using the geological aspects of place as support and springboard for creative expression

3. connecting with others who journey to form a community of place

4. engaging in reciprocity with the unique energy of a site

5. finding powerful ways to honor the elements of fire, water, air, and earth

6. praising the essence of a place by making offerings

Upon reading this book, I dare you not to apply these practices to the places you love in your geographical area. Anderson's devotion is utterly contagious, intensely relevant, and immensely important in these times. Only by being grounded in our wild and sacred places can we obtain the grounding to stand up and be counted in the struggles to come in saving them for our descendents and the offspring of all sentient beings.

I say "Bravo!"

Circling San Francisco Bay: A Pilgrimage to Wild and Sacred Places is a wonderful book, full of love and appreciation for this planet that we share. Author Ginny Anderson has filled this book like a picnic basket, full to overflowing with all sorts of invitations to readers to join her in forging a closer and truly reciprocal relationship with the natural world. The invitations come in the form of suggested exercises and meditations, journal-entry style reflections from those who have journeyed with the author into the wild and sacred places mentioned in the book title, and evocative descriptions of exploratory adventures in these special spots around the Bay Area. The result is that the book offers a very accessible bridge for those of a more pragmatic mindset who may be interested in exploring the spiritual side of life, but aren't quite sure how to do it. Because the path Ms. Anderson illuminates is one that focuses on being fully present in the community in which we each live, it is a path that by definition each of us can follow. This is a very readable book, and one from which I know I will continue to extract precious insights during many repeat reads in the future.

What I like best about this book are the many suggestions for meditations, ideas for connecting, and ways of shifting attention and energy as we walk and explore the nature surrounding us. The writing is vivid (letting us see a particular place from the comfort of home), and the ideas and practices are very accessible. While the focus of the book is the mountains surrounding San Francisco Bay, the author's suggestions could be applied anywhere and everywhere.

In this time of increasing disconnection from the natural world, this book offers inspired pathways for connecting and deepening our relationship to place. These pathways integrate experiences, stories, myths, natural history, and experiments we can try alone or in groups.

Circling San Francisco Bay is far richer than hiking trail guides, more spiritual and inspirational than most travel guides, and broader in scope than almost any book offering practices to try out. Inspired by vision and honed with the experiences and feedback of many groups exploring the mountains with Ms. Anderson, it's a book you can enjoy and work with for many years.

We Live in Paradise: A Review of Circling San Francisco Bay: A Pilgrimage to Wild and Sacred Places, Ginny Anderson, iUniverse, New York, 2006

by David B. Sutton

The message of this wonderfully written book is "We live in paradise." Nature's gifts are all around us for our infinite pleasure and to teach us -- to remind us of our place in the miraculous unfolding of the universe. It is in the wild and sacred places surrounding us that we can learn the most according to this gifted teacher of many earth traditions.

The focus of the book is the San Francisco Bay Area where the author currently lives, but these insights apply to where ever one might live. Our own paradise only awaits our recognition which can be given to us by learning from the Nature around us. We only need to listen -- listen to our inner stirrings as they respond to a myriad of Nature's voices.

While this book is a celebration of a particular piece of planet called, San Francisco Bay (a magnificent piece at that), the exercises provided would open the doors of communication anywhere. Indeed, to me, this is a major value of the book. It is a virtual goldmine of consciousness elevating, "enlightenment" exercises, practices, ritual and ceremony.

You are asked to identify your breath with the rhythmic pulse of the Earth, to invite the fragrance of wide coastal sage to clear your mind of thoughts and to become fully present in the moment, to communicate with the ancient cypress trees, to learn to shed what you have outgrown and want to let go from the eucalyptus, to seek peace (personal and planetary) in the stars. You are taught to recognize many of Nature's portals and given the means to learn from, honor and celebrate the web of life that sustains us.

Anderson weaves a wonderfully rich tapestry of transformation and regeneration through the loom of a number of earth traditions (i.e. Andean Shamanism, Geomancy, Celtic Druid, Native American, Norse, and Indian Traditions) exposing connections between the elements of nature and the pilgrim's own consciousness.

This book speaks, in more ways than I can list here, to the value of ritual in our everyday lives. It is a delightful excursion into the bigger meaning of small things, the illuminating insights of dark times and the utter joy of fully experiencing the moment.

I was profoundly reminded of the importance of ritual to a meaningful life in the high Andes of Peru. I was with my brothers, the Q'ero who, through daily ritual, honor their connections to nature with daily greetings to the sun, offerings to Mother Earth, the mountains, sky and stars. As Pachamama's children, they playfully and lovingly acknowledge their intimate connection with the natural world. All of my book learning was mere verification of what these very wise 'illiterate" brothers and sisters already knew. It was then that I realized that I needed to re-enchant my life with the meaning that this mystical child-like playfulness brings.

This present volume is the best guidebook to this re-discovery that I have ever seen.
It will always occupy I very special place on my reference shelf.

While extolling the universal applicability of this amazing little book, I do not want to neglect its primary intention which is to celebrate the sacred places circling San Francisco Bay. I, too have lived many years in this area and while I have loved it, nothing has given me the appreciation for this paradise more than this compendium of shamanistic insight with Western scholarship. Did I mention that this "enlightenment workbook" is complete with references and citations? -- a legacy to the author's previous Stanford University affiliation, no doubt.

To the author, the magic of the San Francisco Bay Area is sustained by the mountainous terrain that surrounds it. It is the powers of the land and sea that provide "the chalice and the mead for our changing consciousness." Mount Tamalpais, Ring Mountain, Mount Diablo, Mount Hamilton, Mount Umunhum and San Bruno Mountain together create a tangible circle around the communities of the Bay Area, "holding us, lovingly cupped in the hands of Mother Nature," she praises. And, as she continues, "they shape our weather, create a geographical enclosure with permeable boundaries, and hold secrets about life-sustaining processes that continue to function whether or not we pay attention."

This magnificent volume is a plea for us all to pay attention and through the exercises and ceremonies mentioned above (and many others) to relearn what we have forgotten about being part of our earthly paradise.

I can't do better than conclude with the author's own concluding paragraph:

"We live in Paradise. As we walk its sacred space, we open ourselves to deeper
relationships with all the beings who share it. In the audible silence of nature, we risk
exposing our deepest fears, hopes, and feelings to the trees, to the wind. to the waters. In the canyons and on the peaks, we hear what we must do in order to live harmoniously with other beings of the natural world. We discover new capabilities and approaches from the natural world itself. Here in the mountains, we surrender to the pleasure of being fully alive in the moment and know that what we receive creates the power to sustain that which gives us life. The sacred space within these mountains becomes a powerful container of inspiration and vision for the future."

In short, "Circling San Francisco Bay" is a wonderful reminder of Nature's gifts and the need for the solemnity, playfulness and joy of spirit in our lives to recognize them. The Q'ero would love it.


David B. Sutton, Ph.D.
The Antaeus Organization (TAO)
Stanford, California, Shanghai, China
suttonantaeus@mac.com

Ginny Anderson's Circling San Francisco Bay gives a whole new meaning to the concept of "guidebook." Though the author acts as practical and capable guide through every chapter, she is wise enough to let Nature do the guiding on her own terms. Anderson demonstrates through prototypical journeys and destinations how Nature is in turn wise enough to let the reader guide herself through any territory being explored.

Readers may ask, "If Nature will guide us, why do we need this book?" Without arguing the question of need, Circling San Francisco Bay offers itself as a resource embodying two of the essential skills and qualities of a guide: experience and connection. The author draws on a lifetime of experience ministering to both individuals and communities, as well as extensive experience interacting with the "personalities" of the Bay Area sites she includes as examples. She draws on this experience to establish sure and nourishing connections with the reader and to motivate and deepen the reader's ability to connect with Nature.

What makes this book work is its easy mobility among the realms of the psyche or soul, the immediate natural environment, and the world at large. The book discusses important stops along the way in each of these territories and identifies interconnections among them, as well as bringing the focus "full circle" through meditations and exercises so that the reader is continually empowered at the most basic level: individual action.

While Circling San Francisco Bay teaches us to guide ourselves, it promotes and preserves a sense of interdependence. Without arguing the question of need, it makes a compelling case for choosing connection, with ourselves, with each other, and with our surroundings.

I tried a lot of this type stuff. Subliminals didn't work for me. At least this one makes sense and actually when I think of a past experience that I want to forget, it's not so bad. In fact, according to this tape all experiences remain in your mind, so better to release the bad feeling attached to it. So I tried to do that and I do feel more free about it. Maybe the tape or maybe just me facing it, either way, I'll take it. Good tape. I use it to sleep sometimes, too.

I used this for about a week just for relaxing, but then I got serious and released a bad experience during the hypnosis and then forgave a pushy friend. The next time the friend came to visit, I was surprised that I was more comfortable and the frustration didn't come. So after that I released some more bad things. Seems to help a lot.

I have tried meditation for years. Sitting alone and attempting to focus on a single subject always ended with my mind flitting about onto various tangent subjects with no real progress being made. Clearing the Subconscious for 00 Agents Daily Hypnosis Session is different. The Author gently guides you through the meditation at all times, helping you focus on the main goal of the meditation. I have found that this tape has helped me gain a newfound respect for meditation and the ability to clear away past events that have held me back. If you have not tried a guided meditation session, this one may help you clear the past and open your future, I highly recommend this simple but effective resource.

An excellent meditational resource, either with or without author Paul Kyriazi's LIVE THE JAMES BOND LIFESTYLE audiotape/book, CLEARING THE SUBCONSCIOUS FOR 00 AGENTS makes few references to James Bond but contains an excellent relaxation and visualization technique, strongly enhanced by Kyriazi's deep and calming voice.

Having used numerous such self-help tapes throughout the years I found myself surprised at the power of the technique and the equal power of Kyriazi's presentation.

I also recommend Kyriazi's JAMES BOND LIFESTYLE SEMINAR which can be life-changing. Many people can teach you the secrets of their success---Kyriazi makes you believe in your own success.

Though this meditation is in the author's book, The Complete James Bond Lifestyle Seminar, it helps to listen to this 30 minute explanation and meditation. Though you or a friend could record this mediation yourself, author Paul Kyriazi has a great and calming voice. The sound effects were nice too.

"Sky Above, Earth Below" illustrates the underlying principles spiritual traditions have in common. Rather than examining differences, it seeks to bridge the gap between all traditions and emphasizes the similarities. The distillation of these principles is genius, and has potential for greatly contributing to peace on our planet. The principles are both simple and profound.

The book also provides a foundation for Earth-honoring spirituality. These practices are crucial today in order to help reconnect us to the Earth and create a sustainable culture living in harmony with all of Nature. There are a great variety of exercises provided to help you cultivate a spiritual practice in Nature.

John P. Milton's personal stories are woven throughout the practices and principles. I found myself captivated by his amazing tales! The ideas and instructions in this book have enriched my life beyond measure.

If you are interested in creating more harmony, balance and authenitic peace in your life, spend some quiet time with this tape series! I learned how to relax, be present and rest with an open radiant heart, moment by moment...These audio tapes and the extensive study guide (practically a book in itself) provide the listener/reader with all the resources one needs to rediscover a deep sense of belonging to the Natural world. Drawing from many ancient wisdom teachings and time honored spiritual paths, John Milton provides gentle, reassuring guidance necessary to connect with one's true essence and the extraordinary healing energy of the Earth. If you are at all like me, you may be concerned about damaging human relationships that harm our immediate surroundings, perhaps you've noticed how the fields you once played in as a child are being gobbled up by tract developments, shopping malls and urban sprawl or, you may wonder why you feel so depleted and uninspired after a day at the office. If any of this is true for you, Sky Above Earth Below is the perfect antidote for the pervasive alienation and separation many of us are experiencing. in this high-tech, artificial, consumer driven culture we sometimes call civilization. In addition to learning wonderful new contemplative practices for my own personal growth and spiritual awakening, there are many practical recommendations about how to contribute to a healthier and happier world... how to embrace Nature and all the animals, birds and trees as part of one's intimate family. These tapes and the challenging study guide provide a firm foundation for becoming a "spiritual warrior" on behalf of this beautiful Earth. You will learn how you can courageously participate in turning the tide away from massive ecological and human imbalances that are causing so much harm around the world. Recorded live in the Chiricahua Mountains, Sounds True did a magnificent job of editing and producing a powerful message for our times. I wish I had the support of a foundation to send this tape set to every Civic Leader, elected official, Fortune 500 CEO, Public Library and School across this nation and around the world!

If you are looking to transform your life -body, mind, & spirit- this book is for you. John P. Milton, a gifted spiritual master and teacher of transformation shares ancient wisdoms and principles, practices to live into, and stories that open your heart. He doesn't just talk about it he lives it. We are fortunate that here he offers the reader the opportunity to easily begin a new practice or enhance an already existing practice with meditation and qi gong. Milton provides stories to help us relate to the purpose of each practice and to bring us into the mystery of touching universal source on our way to enlightenment. You are about to discover just how profoundly connected we truly are to sky above, earth below, and everything in between...
- Cheryl Esposito, founder, Center for World Leadership

Written by meditation teacher and workshop leader John P. Milton, Sky Above, Earth Below: Spiritual Practice in Nature is a simple guide to healing one's physical and spiritual body and creating a new relationship with oneself through meditation and connecting with nature's healing energy. Chapters walk the reader through how to experience the joys of meditation, a 10-minute practice designed to restore internal balance, means by which to cut through mental clutter to clarity and spaciousness, and much more. Written out of boundless reverence for the Earth and life itself, Sky Above, Earth Below transfers the wisdom of Taoism into simple terms accessible to all readers regardless of personal background.

All of my life, I have felt the presence of Spirit more in Nature than in any other setting. Whenever I go out in Nature for a walk, I always feel more calm, more clear, more peaceful and happier than before I left--even if it's just to a park. I am thrilled that this book and the tape set exist because they give me tools to deepen my relationship with Spirit in the setting where I feel It most. I always dreamed that there would be a path to cultivate my relationship with God that was free from the dogma, politics, and the exclusive self-righteousness of all of the religions I'm come into contact with.
Now there is. These teachings are clear and direct and easy to follow, and they produced profound and positive inner changes, even the first time I tried them. I feel happier, healthier and more alive because of them. The tape set is great too, because it is wonderful to hear the voice of the author--calm, peaceful, deeply resonant. And as a bonus, there are some fantastic stories in the book about John Milton's own spiritual journey. The teachings in this book are so universal and practical that I'm sure they would enhance anyone's journey.

Excellent book! The meditations and suggestions are a great help in finding peace & happiness in your journey of life! Thank You!

THis is a marvelous guide for those times when you need a quick and direct route to your center. The meditations are short and effective. They are a gentle reminder that all really is pono, Hawaiian for perfect.

I've been 'directed' towards utilizing meditation in my life and have been avoiding doing it because there seemed to be 'certain' ways of meditating. Susan's book takes away all the "shoulds" and meets a person where they are at. The meditations are joyous, profound, life-changing and freeing. I highly recommend this book to beginners and practiced meditators alike. The meditations reach a person at every level!

As a student of Susan Gregg, I was one of the first to purchase this wonderful book. She has a way of making Meditation so easy and refreshing.

The short Meditations are perfect for todays life style where few of us have the time to set aside hours for deep reflection. I have achieved better results using these shorter Meditations than I ever did trying the longer, more intense route.

The variety of subjects offered will appeal to every one and every mood. I will be giving many of these out as Gifts this year.

Thank you Susan, for another great Guide!

Yes, I am the author of this book and I was so excited when I was asked to write it. I love leading people on guided meditations and this book is full of them! Over 60 guided meditations.

I have gotten wonderful feedback on this book - so far one person wrote to say she is using it in her group sessions for people in recovery. Another person said she was deeply touched by the meditations. And one woman wrote and said she loved it but she was puzzled about the Complete Idiot's part. She went on to say that after she used the book for a few days she realized only an idiot wouldn't. That one gave me a good chuckle. One man said it really touched his heart and changed his life.

I have dedicated my life to helping people lead rich, full and happy lives. This book is very simple yet full of wonderful bits of wisdom I have gathered over the years.

I hope you will take the time to read it. And if you have any questions feel free to drop me a line. If you visit my web site you can sign up for my semi-daily reflections - sort of an ongoing guided journey home to the magical you you've always been.

With love,
Susan

This is an extraordinarily clear exploration of the fundamental spritual truths that cross all religious and philosophical boundaries.

The writing is simple and conversational, but in its simplicity it leads one step-by-step through layers of insight.

I re-read this book frequently, and make sure that everyone I care about has a copy. Everyone who reads it agrees with me as to its depth.

this was the first book I read on meditation that actually spoke to me. Eknath Easwaran puts the way the mind works in such clear and simple language, that the pages almost turned by themselves. I have recommended this book over and over again; to my students, their parents, clients of mine as an alternative therapy healer in an energy based modality, in lectures that I have taught on "The Nature of the Mind."

Having a background in English Literature really helps Eknath Easwaran know how to write simply and clearly, using words that get the readers' attention, and concepts presented plain and simple that everyone can relate to.

The number one most revolutionary aspect of this book for me was the realization that I am not my thoughts. So I am not crazy, mad, negative or any of the less desirable, more "itchy" types of thinking that goes on in the mind. His book taught me how to separate myself - in a safe and easy way - from the constant whirring of the mind. This ability to detach and begin to slowly learn, over time and practice, how to observe my thoughts rather than be lead by them as if in a tornado, has changed my life for the better, infinitely better.

thanks for taking a step towards making yourself healthier!

This book is about self-discipline of the mind (the need and how-to). Lust, obssessions, greed, etc. are common weakness that we need to overcome. There are times which we also lose control of our temper, etc. This book discusses such issues, too and it aims to help us improve our character.

It uses words of wisdom from famous religious "personalities" such as Christ, Buddha, Krishna, etc. which make a lot of sense but it does not preach any religion (that's the good thing about it).

It also includes at the last chapter, the author's "Eight-Point Program"---a meditation and day-to-day living program that anyone of any religion can adopt.

Almost for anyone... but for the person who STRONGLY DISBELIEVE in existence in any god, he/she may feel uncomfortable about certain parts of the book.

Among the very many books I have read that attempt to bridge the gap(s) between Eastern and Western religions, this is the only one that does it seamlessly.

If you have any interest in a non-cultist perspective on meditation and Buddhism, this is it.

Justin P. Healy

I recommed this book to anyone that is interested in finding peace within themselfs. This book has peaked my interest with meditation and I am now practicing meditation every morning. I do feel more in control of my emotions and find myself more patient with everyday issues.

This collection of Joel's final talks in Hawaii is beautifully presented. Joel's talks have been published in their original, unedited form, and students of The Infinite Way® will respond to the consciousness immediately. Shortly after delivering this part of the message, Joel began his last trip to Europe. These talks were never recorded. Until recently, they were only available from student to student. It is important reading for any serious student of this message.

Years ago I was told I should have in my audio library the series of talks given by Joel Goldsmith in Hawaii in the 1950's. But I already had a number of his tapes, so I put off buying more.

Then this book was introduced which consists of later classes in Hawaii. What a treat to read the difference in how Joel's consciousness had been transformed from books of earlier times! The words somehow, at least to me, became deeper, more profound.

This book is volume packed and flows as though you are right there with him, hearing him, seeing him, feeling the presence of God within him when he goes into meditation with his students. Example: Page 211, "Close your eyes, and very gently inside of yourself say: 'I. That is all. I is within you, so learn to trust it, but not as a power over anything. Just trust 'I am with you' and rest, relax."

As always, Joel's delivery is not trite or superficial or pompous. Down to earth, friendly, and spoken in language every one can understand.

Joel S Goldsmith was a mystic teacher whose writings I devoured for many years. This 600+ page hardback is no exception.

Gail Gupton, Author: The 31-Day Diet of Spiritual Enlightenment and Seekers of Truth

Each serious student should treat themselves to this book. What an excellent job Acropolis Books has done in publishing these beautiful and illuminating lectures which were unavailable for decades. Mr. Goldsmith's depth of consciousness lifts us with each page.

I've been working with Goldsmith material for a few years,
more deeply these last 12 months or so. I certainly haven't
read everything. I find Goldsmith thought provoking, soul
stretching, an intimate friend on my spiritual path. This
book is by far the best I've studied.
I read a chapter each morning and meditate with it. I take
notes. I simply love it.
I've been studying spirit and metaphysics for 25 years and
thought I had a pretty good handle on things. But have been
challenged and provoked again and again in this amazing book.
If you're reading this review, you're ready for this book.
I have written the word WOW numerous times in the margins.
It blows my mind. Thanks again, Joel Goldsmith!

An expansion upon the previously published material of Infinite Way. Full of insight and practical pointers on the Way.

I loved this book. Two books by Mark Waldman include Hendrix's work and are also great: THE ART OF STAYING TOGETHER, and LOVE GAMES (I got to see a prepublication proof - it won't be in the bookstores till January 2000).

If you and your partner have the patience to work through this together, it will enhance your understanding of your own motives as well as your partners. My partner and I are about 1/2 way through and I can honestly say that the improvement in our relationship has been so substantial that I went from depressed/hopeless/thinking of leaving to committed to making it work--together.

Great book for couples to improve communication, increase mutual understanding and reromanticize the relationship. I am a Marriage Family Therapsit and recommend Harveille Hendrix's books to all the couples I see. This particular book is broken down in a way that busy couples can spend 20 minutes a day to share one page. This book helps partners who might normally feel overwhelmed by self help books or have difficulty discussing relationship issues. You just can't go wrong with this book!

If you're committed to taking the time each day to do the exercises in this book, you can make significant improvements in your marriage or relationship. My spouse and I found it to be a useful adjunct to therapy, and we are closer now than ever before, and we understand each other much better. Sometimes the exercises seem a little hokey, but if you trust the authors that they do have a reason behind what they're asking of you, you'll find that the little doses of daily insight, plus just spending time together each day, can work wonders! As a clinical psychologist, I was impressed both personally and professionally. It's good for any type of committed couple, straight or gay, too, which is nice.

Haven't yet read it, but it was the only book recommended by our marriage counselor specialized in relationship enhancement.

A fantastic gift for friends of every religion. This book is enlightening in so many levels, it completes every mediation or spiritual exercise. I highly recomend this book as a holiday present for friends you really care about. It's definetly a gift that keeps giving.

This book is great and interesting! It would make a wonderful holiday gift!

This book is great for anyone, good to have on the coffee table too. I highly recommend it!

THIS IS A VERY GOOD BOOK, A GREAT HOLIDAY ITEM FOR FRIENDS, FAMILY AND CO-WORKERS

"God is a circle whose center is everywhere and whose circumference is nowhere." --Timaeus of Locris

Mandala is a Sanskrit word for circle and is a sacred, symbolic diagram used for contemplation. In Buddhism and Hinduism, mandalas usually include images of Buddhas or deities. Yantra is a Sanksrit word for "instrument", and is meant to inspire inner visualizations, meditations, and spiritual experiences. However, since the two terms are often used interchangeably, the word mandala usually refers to any circular image or diagram.

Create Your Own Sand Mandala by Eileen M. Rose and Abby Rose Dalto is a boxed kit that enables you to make your own sand mandalas in the tradition of Tibetan Buddhists. Traditionally, the art of constructing sand mandalas is an ancient Tibetan ritual art that requres extensive training, a high level of artistic skill, and hours of meticulous work.

However, the sand mandala is not permanent (glued). They are constructed with impermanence and non-attachment in mind, as well as specific intent. When a sand mandala is constructed, more emphasis is placed on improving the mind of the practitioner and contributing to the greater good of the world than on producing a work of art. After the construction of a mandala, the sand is brushed to the center and scattered in the nearest body of water, representing a dispersion of the intent.

The circle has been a sacred symbol for eons, showing up in such forms as Native American Medicine Wheels, gothic Rose Windows, Labyrinths, halos, astrological charts, Celtic designs, alchemical symbols, and so on. There are many ways to construct mandalas, and some forms are permanent--created with paint, fabric, found materials, crushed glass, colored pencils, computer generation, etc. Circles represent wholeness, and coloring or constructing mandalas can be used for meditation, healing, and positive intent.

Create Your Own Sand Mandala includes a 96 page book with full color illustrations, bags of sand in five sacred colors (red, yellow, green, blue, and white), 4 glossy, cardboard templates for guidance,a metal funnel to direct the flow of the sand, and a brush for sweeping up the sand.

The authors provide colorful examples of personal mandalas, as well as circular forms found in architecture, art, and sculpture, and explain the meanings of colors, totem animals, and sacred geometry. Step-by-step instructions are given to help prepare yourself and the items for mandala construction for meditation, healing and prayer, as well as explaining the many uses of mandalas. It is recommended that you start from the center of the circle when creating a mandala. Many religions acknowledge a sacred center within, whether it be called Soul, Christ within, or Higher Self. Accessing and contemplating this sacred center is the reason for beginning at the middle. Although geometric designs are often used in mandalas, you can make it as personal and free-form as creating a sunny meadow or self-portrait. The purposeful use of colors correlating to certain chakras or meanings, as well as totem animals or other symbols, can be utilized. Or, you can allow symbols and impressions to float into your awareness for inclusion in your mandala.

After constructing your mandala, you can scatter the sand into water as the Tibetan Buddhists do, scatter it to the four winds or bury it like the Native Americans, or even put the sand in a locket, jar, or special container. There's no need to worry about using up the sand that's provided, because the authors provide simple and easy instructions on creating your own colored sand.

Whether you seek to honor Spirit, tap into your Higher Self, achieve clarity, or intend peace, healing or other purpose, this wonderful boxed kit and book will help guide you through the process of creating life-affirming mandalas.