Meditation Books

In her book, First You Sigh, Beth Johnson embraces and teaches a practical approach to toning in meditation. Her eagerness and passion illuminate the pages as she shares her experience and knowledge that guide you to an inner realm where you come face to face with your soul-self. As you apply her technique, you feel the vibration swell up inside you until it touches everything. You will enjoy the ease and organization of her step by step instruction. It is like having a teacher right in the room with you. If you have asked for the teacher, she has come.

Beth and her editor managed to touch me by writting this book in a style of "this-is-how-it-FEELS-inside-my-thoughts". It is a pleasant, enjoyable, BUT (more importantly) an informative read for anyone who may be needing help with feeling their previous attempts at meditating were missing something. This book provides the "something".

I have been practicing meditation for about 3 years now. And, this book really helped to clarify things -- bringing it all together in real-life applications -- for me. My spiritual path has been greatly expanded through this book, and my meditations will never be the same. The connectedness and peace I now achieve through my meditations are far beyond anything I have experienced before.

And, it did so in a very Joyous, passionate, gentle way. A very easy, friendly read that has added a great deal to my life. Thank You Beth Johnson for sharing!

When I finished this book, I felt like I'd known Beth Johnson my entire life! I bought this book to learn how to meditate, but First You Sigh ended up being much more than that. I was thoroughly entertained--I laughed out loud and I cried. It is full of profound messages about day-to-day living--ones that really make sense and have been easy to incorporate into my own life! I've read lots and lots and lots of books about meditation and varying techniques. This is absolutely the first book that described step-by-step how to actually do it. AND, I did! I rank it right up there with the best.

Meditating is not easy, at least it hasn't been for me. It's essential to understand the importance of meditation to our lives, and to see how far we can go in the meditation process. Focused and Fearless not only detailed the meditation process thoroughly, but also described in great detail the deeper stages of pre-jhana, and the jhanas themselves. It became obvious to me right away that the author has first hand experience with the deeper levels of meditation and throughly understands the topic and difficulties people have. Reading this book invigorated my practice, helped me see where I can eventually go, and helped me deepen my own personal practice. It's a must read book for anyone on the path.

I found the book to be clear, deep, joyful, and also to have a certain streak of humor. Overall, Shaila Catherine makes it very clear how the mind in jhana is used as a tool, not as an end in itself. There is something poignant about the "purpose" of these beautiful states being their very destruction. We create in order to let things fall apart? There is much depth here-- worth pondering, experiencing, and understanding fully.

I gained the most from observing the type of reflection questions that were posed regarding each jhana state. For example, the first jhana is most appropriately used for insight regarding the body, whereas by the 4th jhana, the questions concern breaking the link between feeling and craving in the cycle of dependent origination - this makes sense as the 4th jhana is considered quite well-suited for liberating insight.

I know I will be able to use this book for many years, coming back to hear it differently as my own mind changes.

This is the first time I have ever taken the pain to write a review about anything. This book is simply amazing for various reasons:
- I havent found another book on meditation which actually breaks down the various stages of meditation practise in such depth.
- Its very difficult to describe "thoughts" and mental states. Its amazing how simply and effectively Shaila describes all the concepts. Its a delightful and easy read.
- The practices and principles described are actually very simple.
- There many authors these days who write self-help/religious/business books without having much depth of experience. Having met Shaila in person, it becomes quite clear that she has actually practised and mastered what she preaches. Her writing comes from a deep understanding developed over years.

Focused and Fearless is a reliable and pragmatic guide to the practices of absorption concentration, or jhana. It presents them within the broader context of the path of liberating the mind from suffering and dissatisfaction through non-clinging. The descriptions of these practices are clearly based in Shaila Catherine's own intensive and systematic exploration of them while also being solidly based in the Buddha's discourses and the commentarial tradition. Her writing is very clear and a joy to read. Whether you are simply curious about the jhanas or are interested in practicing with them, Focused and Fearless is a highly recommended practice guide.

I wasn't sure what to expect from this book. Sometimes books on feminism are loaded with feminist theory and loose with history. This one is solid: rich in the facts, accessible, and well organized. It would be good for a classroom and as a resource for ministers throughout the liturgical calendar. Read and enjoy.

Teresa Berger's wide-ranging book on Christian liturgy is by far one of the best books I've read on the subject. It's structured as a series of meditations on the liturgical year, beginning with the feast day of St. Mary Magdalene and proceeding through Advent and Lent to end with thoughts on Trinity Sunday, baptism, and the ordinary rituals of ordinary time.

Throughout the book, Berger consolidates key insights of feminist theology to critique specific features of traditional liturgical practice and provide positive contributions to Christian practice in community. The theme of spiritual guidance as midwifery plays a strong part, as does a continuing meditation on the ways mothers in their giving play an under-appreciated eucharistic function in the church. There is even an illuminating discussion of rituals that connect people of various faiths.

The whole text, as well as many of the other works by feminist scholars that Berger cites, puts the lie to the notion that feminist theology is merely deconstructive or that it does not take the tradition seriously. In Fragments of the Real Presence, Berger shows how a feminist reclaiming of the Christian liturgical tradition might return that tradition to its spiritual roots, taking seriously the faith of devout Christians, male and female, throughout the centuries. Very highly recommended, especially for pastors and others involved in crafting liturgy for Christian communities.

My friend Kay and I, having been privileged participants in one of Professor Berger's seminars at Duke Divinity School, read the Introduction to this volume together and found ourselves profoundly moved by the reflections of this great Catholic Christian scholar. Fragments of Real Presence is the ideal book for women's study groups -- the attractive physical size of the book as well its user-friendly text and font is an added pleasure -- and promises to provide many sleepless nights for those moved to explore more deeply the movement of women in and through the Christian faith community.

There has been great anticipation for this book in women's scholarly circles. Teresa Berger, currently an associate professor at Duke University Divinity School, is best known as a world-class historian of Christian liturgy. Throughout her remarkably productive writing career, however, she has also written and spoken widely and well on a number of theological themes of direct interest to Christian women. So there is a sense of anticipation knowing that a serious English language work (many of her works have appeared in German) has been about to appear.

At its most basic level, Fragments of Real Presence takes us along the liturgical year through the eyes of women. Said in that way, however, the book might sound like one of those tired, overwrought projects in feminist reconstruction that give feminism a bad name. While you'll simply have to read the book to understand what makes it different, here's one attempt at explaining it. Berger doesn't simply describe a different way of looking at things. She performs it. She carries us into the middle of it all. And she is a skilled enough writer to do this. She can move effortlessly between pure poetry, popular description, and scholarly reflection. The more we read, the more we really start to enter into the world she is offering us, a world where liturgical forms are not the enemy of women's experience but a way of coming to understand it more richly.

Each reader will have his/her own favorite pieces. I was drawn to one piece weaving together an iconic representation of Mary and the real-life story of a woman who proved herself a dangerous caregiver lacking "maternal" skills. I also adored The ABCs that come near the end of the book -- they are a sort of glossary about love, more romantic than you'd expect from a scholar, and more honest and truth-telling than you get from romantics. I think most readers will also be especially drawn to the Advent and Christmas reflections, and those around Holy Week.

As I mention in the headline, the book has been worth the wait. It does not offer an easily digested concept or catch-phrase that students can write in their notebooks, and so it may not be destined to have the overt influence that some great works have. But it should have a long life as a goad to reflection as well as an example of truly poetic writing. Berger has "handed" us something quite powerful, a new way of seeing and thinking about a tradition that we too often see in limiting and restricting ways.

We all have our faith tested along the way. In "Gentle Mercies", Haralson gives us many reasons for our faith to be strengthened. These wonderful stories from a former minster turned country lawyer show how ordinary lives can touch others in extraordinary ways. Topics ranging from coping with the depths of mental illness to living with a family pickup truck named 'Old Red' will make you laugh, cry, and take inventory of your own walk of faith.

I have known Hal Haralson for more years than I will admit. He is a genuine, loving, caring human being, whose Christianity shows through both words and deeds. His stories are charming, witting, poignant, and pointed. My only quarrel with him has been in the story where he explained his decision to go into a career where his "mental illness", which has been under control for a long time, didn't matter -- law... He may be right. His sensitive blending of humor with religion, morality, and career is much needed in these days. I wish him the best!

In these days of religious consertavitism vs. moderates vs. fundamentalists vs. extremists, Haralson uses his wit and wisdom to reel the reader back to the basics of faith in God and it's application in everyday life. Haralson uses stories of an old red pickup, cowboys on horses, and struggles with mental illness to coax the reader into his life. These stories are enlighting. I'd recommend it to those who enjoy Robert Fulghum writings and Chicken Soup for the Soul.

I read this book from cover to cover in a matter of hours. The author's ability to draw in the reader with his hope, determination, and faith is remarkable. I recommend this book of short stories to anyone searching for God's Gentle Mercies.

The Gift Of Time: Making The Most Of Your Time And Your Life is an inspiring compendium of insightful and poetic commentary combined with duo-tone photography that will enable the appreciative reader to create more meaningful time for themselves; to find serenity in a hurried modern world; to become patient, balanced, and aware within the moment; to let go of the past and turn dreams into reality; and best of all, to embrace very moment of life as an irreplaceable gift. If you only have time for a single self-help, self-improvement, inspirational, life enhancing book, make it Alexander Anderson's The Gifts Of Time.

Excellent, thought-provoking, consciousness-raising, inspirational book. Couldn't put it down. A must read over and over again.

Excellent, thought-provoking, consciousness-raising, inspirational book. Couldn't put it down. A must read over and over again.

The dear friend who gave me this book two years ago died suddenly last week. In reading the book again, within this new context, I am struck by the wisdom given freely and simply, beautifully demonstating the importance of the moment, the simplicity of quality rather than quantity, the gift of being truly present in our own lives. What else could possibly matter? Time can be used rather than abused, a friend instead of an enemy. The photos are well chosen, contemplative, restful and speak volumnes. I'm ordering copies to give as gifts as he did, while I have Time.

Every morning at breakfast, I read a page from this book. It has 365 reflections - one for every day of the year - and 12 calligraphies - one for every month. I take this reflection with me throughout the day and try to understand it with my deluded mind. I try to look at it from different angles and at the end of the day, I will draw a conclusion. Will that be the same conclusion I will draw a year from now, when I study this same page again?

If you are a student of Sogyal Rinpoche, a lot of reflections will sound familiar to you. This book will then be a reminder of the teachings, a source of contemplation. If you are not, there will be a lot of valuable information in there for you to think about. And perhaps, you get more and more curious about this Tibetan wisdom!

I have been reading this book for 4 years and it has changed my life. A truly beneficial tool for deepening spiritual practice.

Thought provoking and shattering insights to break you free from limiting thoughts. This is a wonderful collection of Tibetan "koans" to free our thinking. I found it shook the foundations of my limited perspectives and made me question the true reason for my human existence. Rinpoche opens our mind to the temporal nature of existence and inspires to prepare for our next existence.

I try to read the glimpse each day when I get up (and sometimes the night before), and have found the experience helpful. I have yet to develop strong discipline in my practice, and find it easy to get caught up in life for days or weeks at a time. Reading a couple paragraphs (the glimpse for one day) has been like a bell calling me back to myself. I wouldn't be surprised to be reading this book for the next 20 years as my understanding deepens.

This book is a must-read for the true Christian. Ms Kuhlman's down-to-earth realism is portrayed in this book and leaves no doubt that she was truly of child of God. Read the part about Humility and read and re-read the entire book. You will be blessed. I highly recommend its reading. HLJ

Such a powerful book, totally anointed by the Holy Ghost, from the heart of a woman who knew the heartbeat of God.

I Like this book because it makes you understand more about the gift of ministry. This women of true faith in God delivers in her past teaching.

Well, to be honest, the reason I like Katie Kuhlman is because she was a homewrecker. She busted up a marriage and ran off with the guy in a brief but not all too talked about episode of her life. This suggests to me that if God can use an adulteress like Katie, then hell, he can use any of us now can't he?

See "Review" for "God Calling". "Truly beneficial to the spirit's well-being!"

This is a continuation of God Calling. It was written by the same Two Listeners who and A.J.Russell edited this also. The readings tend to be a little shorter than God Calling, but the same warmth and love is evident. It is simply written, and will speak directly to the reader;there is noting vague about the messages. For those who enjoy a daily devotional that always seems to be right on target with where they are today, this book, like God Calling, will hit the mark.

I was introduced to both God Calling and God at Eventide by my mother in 1972 when I was a more than rebellious teenager. In quite desperation she had given me a hard back set of both books and suggested that I try looking for answers here instead of the bottom of a whisky bottle. For months after I had received them, they sat unopened on my dresser. My life was going nowhere. I was working in a dead end construction job, half-heartedly trying to raise money for college but spending more on motorcycles and parties than I spent on food or clothing.

During this time my mother was losing her battle with a mysterious illness which seemed to defy any diagnosis. Daily I watched her slip away, angry at God for taking this wonderful Christian woman from the family that loved her, and angry at her for continuously praising a seemingly uncaring God. As I drowned my sorrow in drugs and alcohol she slowly wasted away to skin and bone.

One evening after work I sat with her while she read from her ever present Bible. By this time she was so weak she could not hold it even with both hands and had to prop it against her serving tray in order to read it. She could barely lift her head from the pillows and her voice was so weak I had to lean over her to hear her. Still, her eyes filled with tears as she read to me about Gods love of us.

Then she asked me that dreaded question. Was I using the books she had given me? I lied. Of course I was. Then I fled back to my room and my release from all my cares. Soon I was sprawled across my couch, stoned, drunk, with a half bottle of Black Velvet in my hand and my eyes on the red and gold covers of what I thought would be the last gift she would ever give me. I snatched down the box set and opened God Calling. I quickly saw it had a verse for each day of the year and flipped to the days date.

It was eerie. In that entire book I don't think I could have found another passage that so spoke to my acing soul. I opened God at Eventide and again, it was as if someone had listened to my turbulent thoughts and had written a message of love and understanding just to me. Surly it was from the loving Son of a merciful God.

Over the years I have found that somehow I am always directed to the most appropriate message for whatever situation I am in. And I am not alone. Many friends and family members have found the same thing. That somehow they windup with just the exact message they need at that moment. Some have even suggested (only partly jokingly) that God moves the verses around just for them. Truly these are inspired works.

I was, and still am, a devoted daily reader of "God Calling", by A.J. Russell. I was ecstatic when a friend from my Bible Study Class/Group, informed us that she had found the companion volume to "God Calling", being "God At Eventide", in a Good Will store, of all places. I immediately tried to buy and order a copy from one of our bookstores here in town. Astonishingly, I was told that it was no longer available. I quickly searched Amazon and found a used paperback edition. (Thank you God). Anyone who thinks that a mortal human being could write a devotional such as this, surely is in denial about the reality of Christ, Jesus, our Savior. This is truly the work of our Lord, our Savior, reaching out to us, to give us encouragement, hope, faith, comfort, and understanding in this nonsensical world in which we live. He gives us the answers to thoughts and questions which could, (if we did not have his guidance), torment our souls and make us into bitter pitiful human beings. Every single word must be read to comprehend his message to us. However, one must be fairly advanced in a personal relationship with "Him" in order to remotely understand what he is trying to tell us. Some people, or rather a good number of people, do not seem to connect at all with this book and it's companion book. This is a tragedy, for here is "His" wisdom, comfort and guidance. The words speak to you as though Christ, himself, was sitting in your living room or walking with you along the ocean as your best friend, giving you counsel. Also, you begin to understand the actual "Man, Jesus". He gives you glimpses into his character while being our teacher here on earth. He loved to prepare a feast for his disciples along the lakeshore, as a surprise! Jesus liked to cook! He also loved giving the wine gift at a wedding festival. For anyone who hungers and longs to know the Christ, Jesus, intimately, this book is a window into "Him." Also, he intended for this to be read in the evenings; thus, the meditations are shorter than those in "God Calling." "He" knows that we are tired at night and sometimes could fall short of the deep understanding for which he desires. He understands us. If one loves Jesus, you will love this book.

This devotional book is fabulous! Very inspirational and easy to relate to. I enjoy it and read over and over. I have given this to many for gifts.

I was blessed by my family when I received this book as a gift in late December of 1997. Now, almost 10 years later, it has been my night-time companion through all of life's wonderful triumphs and challenging trials. I can earnestly say that this is one terrific little book.

I turn to this devotional every night before I read God' Holy Word. The daily reading, which includes a relevant verse, an illustration or anecdote, and a pithy maxim, are invariably replete with messages that inspire and mollify. Despite the fact that I have used this same devotional for so long, I still thoroughly enjoy its fresh and dynamic messages.

I enthusiastically recommend this guide to accompany your own daily readings of the Holy Scriptures, as long as the book only supplements-- but does not supplant--God's Book, which always will be the true Source of our collective wisdom and inspiration.

This book is filled with timely and insightful passages that are relevant in today's world. There is a bible quote on each page as well relating to the story. Which shows how timely the bible STILL is. It is an excellent spring board for further bible study and reflection. There is a sense of peace and ritual when you read it because you can apply it to your every day life.

This is a wonderful book to give as a gift. It gives biblical quotes with a true to life story related to each quote.

Great Inspirational reading- also a great source for lesson planning. Each Chapter covers a different virtue-

A great source of encouragement under any circumstance- On page 34 begins LOVE IS SRONGER THAN DEATH- This really helped me know what to say to a friend whose husband died unexpectedly...

Much more than you will expect to find in a single source.

This book is hard to find in stores and is a wonderful collection of many authors that one recognizes to include, Mother Teresa and Billy Graham. The various authors have broken down scripture and provide expalantions that one can understand easily. It can be read over and over again. It's a book I treasure and one I enjoy giving to others.

Great Inspirational reading- also a great source for lesson planning. Each Chapter covers a different virtue-

A great source of encouragement under any circumstance- On page 34 begins LOVE IS SRONGER THAN DEATH- This really helped me know what to say to a friend whose husband died unexpectedly...

Much more than you will expect to find in a single source.

"God's Treasury of Virtues" picks up where Dr. William Bennett's "Book of Virtues" left off. Wonderfully organized by utilizing God's listing of the fruit of the Spirit found in Galatians 5 as chapter headings. One can simply find a area of interest and peruse the inspirational collection of stories, quotes, hymns, poems and scriptures found in that area. I enthusiastically recommend "God's Treasury of Virtues" as a practical support in our daily endeavor to walk the Godly walk that we have been called to.