Religion Books

This book seemed to answer most of my doubts about Arminian theology being a legitimate evangelical position. There really is a lot of misrepresentation about the theology, and after reading it I would definately have to say that really there shouldn't be anyone who doubts the orthodoxy and legitimacy of Arminianism as being truly protestant. There will be people who disagree with some of the books conclusions, but at the heart of it, Arminianism can stand proudly beside Calvinism as being an alternative protestant doctrine on election and predestination.

I'm not the sharpest tool in the shed, but I do try to expand my knowledge of Christianity and theology bit by bit. For this reason I sometimes found myself getting frustrated while reading, due to the fact that I couldn't understand some concepts when first read. Whether this is the book's fault or my own, well I'm not entirely sure. Overall though I think most readers should be able to get a handle on the concepts quite quickly, though it is not for those wanting a light read. It made me think hard!

Another great credit to the book's author, is his objectivity and ability to explain calvinism with respect, clarity and honesty. There are no harsh or degrading statements towards calvinism or it's supporters, but neither does he just let Calvinist writers get away with everything they say. While defending Arminianism, Olson also makes Calvinists think deeper about their own theology, which is good for all. In fact he explains calvinism so well, that I even learnt things that I didn't know before about the theology (such as Calvinists do believe in free will, but of course it's different to Arminian free will).

Lastly, the book itself is well made, and the front cover and picture are of high quality. So if you want a book which is objective, fair, enlightening and defends arminianism amazingly well; pick this book up. It may be challenging though.

Dr Olsen has done an excellent job of presenting Arminianism in a balanced and non-hostile way. Everyone who has ever delved into the whole Calvinism versus Arminianism should read this book. It is fair to say, as Dr Olsen states, that most people who debate this issue do not fully understand Arminianism. There are many misinformed people who reject Arminian Theology without really understanding what they reject. A must read!

Let me say at the beginning of this review that I am an unapologetic Calvinist. Olsen did not change my position, but he did correct and sharpen my understanding of Arminianism. I have believed and even promulgated some of the myths exposed in this book and for that chastisement alone I am grateful for his work.

More importantly, Roger Olson has done both sides in the Calvinism/Arminianism debate a favor in penning this work. He succinctly dispels the "myths" that have creped into the debate and history of Arminianism. The overriding disagreement according to Olsen is one that goes beyond the debate between predestination and free will--these are merely derived from the fundamental issue. The main area of dispute concerns whether the love or sovereignty of God should be the superseding principle in His dealings with humanity. The Arminian would stress the love of God and the Calvinist His sovereignty. (p. 73)


Olson gives the raison d'être for the book in his introduction: The purpose of this book is simple and straightforward: to correctly delineate true Arminian theology and to begin to undo the damages that has been done to this theological heritage by both its critics and friends. (p. 43) He examines 10 myths that are commonly believed and cited by both proponents and Calvinists regarding Arminianism, (see the TOC on Amazon's preview and other reviews). Most of these myths, if not all, deal with areas relating to soteriology.

He notes that Jacob Arminus did not adhere to a lot of the views that are commonly understood today as Arminianism by both Arminians and Calvinists. For instance some Calvinists maintain that Arminians do not believe in total depravity. Olson defends the position that in fact Arminius and true Arminians do believe this doctrine. The key difference surrounds the notion of prevenient grace (i.e. all mankind is in a fallen state that cannot be penetrated unless God awakens the deadness). The proper concept of prevenient grace for the Arminian states that God awakens all to understand the gospel, then each person makes the choice whether to accept or reject the gospel presentation and embrace Christ. Without this awakening, all would be dammed. (Of course, the Calvinist would maintain that this awakening and calling is absolutely efficacious and limited to the elect.)

Each chapter is structured basically the same with a general introduction to the issue at hand followed by an examination of Arminus's comments which both clarify true Arminian doctrine and refute the myth at hand. Next he explores the historical evolution of Arminus's teaching, citing such church personalities from Wesley to current thought that both adhere to and digress from Arminius.

Olsen writes with the following overriding concern and one that should be echoed and modeled by all in this and other doctrinal disagreements and debates: "One principle that ought to be observed by all parties to this debate is before you disagree make sure you understand. In other words, we must make sure that we can describe another's theological position as he or she would describe it before we criticize or condemn. Another guiding principle should be do not impute to others beliefs you regard as logically entailed by their beliefs but that they explicitly deny." p. 41.

Only rarely does Olson deviate from his gracious and irenic discussions with his Calvinistic brothers. One such instance was his comments regarding the meaning of "all" in John 3:16; 2 Pet 3:9) and the Calvinistic interpretation of its meaning (p. 223) I will forgive him "for this momentary lapse of kindness." One other concern I did have was his passing remark in a footnote to his openness to "open theism" (p. 198, note 65) other than that I heartedly recommend this book to both camps in the debate for both a proper understanding of the issues at hand and a paradigm for future engagement.

If more Arminians talked about grace the way Arminius did and his consistent followers (Arminians of the heart, as Olson puts it), there would be friendlier "discussions" between Reformed and Arminian brothers and sisters in Christ. As Oslon describes it, Arminianism is believes in "evangelical synergism", but as I understood it, one could label this as "resistible monergism." That is, faith and salvation are all done by God, but this only happens if the individual doesn't resist the grace given (but even then, the ability to resist grace is only possible because of grace!). I would like to see the scriptural backing for the Arminian beliefs as Olson explained them and be able to evaluate the claims for my self and my own beliefs, but this book is a great introduction and the de-mythification of what exactly true Arminians believe.

The Calvinist/Arminian debate is often conducted in a way that is hurtful and lacks grace. If you are looking for a book that explains the Arminian view and at the same time treats the Calvinist view with respect, then this is for you.

This book is not a rejection of Calvinism, but instead is an explanation of why Arminians believe the way they do. Olson does not set out to disprove Calvinism.

I appreciated that Olson is not afraid to tackle those from his tradition if he believes that their theology is flawed in any way. For example he points out some of the shortcomings of the later Remonstrants (like Limborch) and he also points out some of the weaknesses of John Wesley.

The book was not an easy read. It was written at a level where I had to struggle at times to fully comprehend. The chapter on the theories of atonement was the most difficult.

This book was an inpiration in my spiritual journey.
-The Big Glow

This is a book which can easily change the way you see (observe) world. It is a book which requires meditation.
Krishnamurti's talks on various topic and his insight to know yourself is life changing.
While reading it, I used to go deep into thought and observed myself. During this period you realize and know a lot about yourself. One of the biggest thing which I learned was that you know the truth when you know what is not true. Making yourself aware of yourself (including anger, jealousy, prejudice) and not forcing it to go away is the the true observation. Just watch yourself as you watch the the sky and the birds without trying to do any change. This is just a small part of things which changed my life. It is not a book that will change your life but definitely one can change his own life after reading his book. At some points in the book you will be lost as there is nothing wrong or right but constant meditation on the topic will help one out.

If you are ready to challenge your believes and habits, this is a must read book.

One the MOST influential book I have ever read! It is very easy to follow, and I would recommend it to every one.

If you're interested in actually practicing Buddhism, not just reading or conceptualizing it, I feel like this book may help, because it's like having a teacher in your pocket. He guides you in a way that is productive, yet you have to truly see what he talks about for yourself in order to appreciate it. Otherwise, as JK would say, it's just more dead words.

"Some of you believe in the idea of reincarnation. You come and ask me what I believe, whether reincarnation is a fact or not, whether I remember my past lives, and so on. Now, why do you ask me? Why do you want to know what I think about it? You want a further confirmation of your own belief, which you call a fact, a law, because it gives you a hope, a purpose in life. Thus, belief becomes to you a fact, a law, and you go about seeking confirmation of your hope. Even though I may confirm it, it cannot be of vital importance to you. Whatever it may be to me, real or false, what is important for you is that you should discern for yourself these conceptions through action, through living, and not accept any assertions." - krishnamurti

I cannot recommend this book high enough. This book is one of the most comprehensive and accessible of Krishnamurti's work. It is a collection of talks given at various parts of the world. In each series of talk Krishnamurti leads the listener to look into serious topics like Operation of thought, conflict , The art of seeing, freedom, the energy needed for freedom, do we need a teacher, etc. There is a huge difference between looking into an issue and "thinking" about an issue. Thinking involves thought, and simply looking is mere observation. And krishnamurti says that if this observation, the seeing is done with total attention without the interference of thought, then the intelligence operates.

Many a times while reading this book, my mind will come to a complete stop and I would be taken to deep and spontaneous meditation. Krishnamurti is highly skillful in sparking our insights and allows us to see what he sees. He never says "This is right or this is wrong", he doesn't even want us to agree or disagree to what is being said, because he doesn't offer any theories. He just tells us to look without judment, prejudice or opinions. He asks us to listen "completely". He says that people ask questions for two reasons, one is to confirm what they already beleive in, and the other is to "really" find out the truth. The first way of asking will never lead to an answer, because we are unwilling to listen to the "truth"; We only want a confirmation for the false, and only the false needs confirmations. This book is for sincere seekers of truth who really want to know the truth. He says that when we look at the false as false, what remains is truth. Health is the absence of diseases, and so it truth the total negation of false. The ability to discern the true from the false is what intelligence is. I have observed that reading one talk per session in regular periods helps tremondously in awakening "intellingence", not "my" intelligence but just intelligence.

"As I was saying, the importance in asking a question is not to find the answer but to understand the problem because there is only the problem and not the answer. To ask a question is easy; but to go into the problem is extremely difficult because once you know what the problem is, the very seeing of the problem is the understanding of the problem. The moment I can state the problem very clearly, simply, the answer is there, I do not have to look beyond. But most of us do not know what the problem is. We are confused about the problem and so naturally we look, in our confusion, for answers; and that will only produce further confusion. " -krishnamurti

A fantastic book! It's written in a 365 day format so you can pick it up on any day and start there. Some of his wisdoms need to be taken one day at a time other times I found myself reading days or weeks ahead they were so interesting.

His wisdom is timeless, obviously Tolstoy was a man ahead of his time. He has a quote for everyday from some famous text or other sometimes biblical, but not always.

I really enjoyed it.

I really enjoy this book. The amazing collection of quotes and thoughts make this very worthwhile. There is at least one thought each day that really sticks with me. I know that I will be reading it day by day for years and always finding new things to think about and take away.

I've purchased it for everyone important in my life . . .it's a great daily read.

Love this book . Really interesting especially considering all the information gathered without the use of a computer . Might not agree totally with all Tolstoy's beliefs but that doesn't make it any less of an amazing book .

Immediately upon purchasing this book, I ordered another and sent it to my cousin who subsequently purchased 3, one for her husband who had opened the one I sent to her and begun highlighting passages and the other 2 she gave to her children who are in college. I know that Tolstoy viewed this as one of his greatest accomplishments in life and read from it every day. I read it cover to cover in about a week and then went back and picked up so that I can study each day. I never say that books change my life. I do think that I am the type of person who, when presented with something that resonates with my soul, I immediately align my actions with whatever it happens to be. There are many passages in this book that resonate with me, some of which elevated my thoughts and actions to a new level. I think that is why it meant so much to Tolstoy to leave this as his final work.

Celtic prayer is inspiring for its earthiness and conviction of the presence of God in daily life. This contempory prayer book rises out of a new monastic form, a contemporary "decentralized" mixed gender Christian committed life. It is inspiring, thoughtful and a valuable asset...however, I can't help but wonder why the traditional "Daily Office" (Matins, Lauds, Prime, None, Sext Vespers & Compline) needed to be replaced. This is a useful addition, but not a replacement.

This is a great devotional book! My seminary student son ordered this book right before he left on a long trip. The book arrived after he left so I looked through it and got hooked. I have used it for the past month and have drug it around all over the country while highlighting all of the good passages. It looks pretty beat up with all the use. I ordered him another copy because he isn't getting this one back!

I've been reading Celtic Daily Prayers for five years now, and
love to re-read some prayers with their Celtic rhythm and images.
And there's much to explore. There are two series of daily
readings for the year with Biblical references for each day.
I find inspiration from this treasure of a book.

I have used the Celtic Daily Prayer every day for about 5 months. I read the Scriptures for the day, the meditation for the day of the year, and the meditation for the day of the month (repeats). It is consistently outstanding. I have distributed about 10 copies to our church ministers and leaders, and their response has been very positive.

For many years, liturgy and formal prayers have been out of favor in Protestant Churches. Many of us are realizing that this rich tradition guarded by our (mostly) Catholic brothers and sisters has a very vibrant place in modern Christian spirituality. The wealth of tradition and unity offered by liturgical worship may be the next "in thing" for Protestants. We've already made hymns cool.
This books serves as a wonderful introduction to some of those practices. There are three sections of set prayers, two with scripture readings and meditations, plus a compline for each day. The CD, which I can't find on Amazon, makes for easier memorization of the prayers and blessings. The book also includes blessings and liturgies for baptisms, communion, marriage, and the like.

Celtic Daily Prayer is a great resource for someone new to the Daily Office, or as an alternative source of liturgies for those already accustomed to this form of worship.

For those interested in an overview of Traditional Christianity, Marcia Ford's Traditions of the Ancients: Vintage Faith Practices for the 21st Century might be a good place to start.

I first saw the hand-printed Compass of Zen at the Cambridge (MA) Zen Center years ago. Try to imagine just the Chinese characters and translations at the head of each chapter in this book -- that's all there was. At least one Japanese Zen Master looked at it and said it contained everything a Zen student needed to learn about Buddhism.

This book is a compilation of ZMSS's talks on the original "Compass of Zen", put together by a couple of his long-time, dedicated and loving students. It is a fine representation of who ZMSS was as a teacher and what it was like to spend time with him -- alternately challenging, hilarious, profound, pithy, discursive, insightful, oddly scholarly, and always compassionate and completely dedicated to the simple proposition with which he signed every letter: "I hope you always go straight 'don't know,' which is clear like space, soon get enlightenment and save all beings from suffering."

This should not be your only book on the basics of Buddhism. It is too unconventional, too dedicated to turning the teachings on their heads, to be that. Thich Nhat Hanh's "Heart of the Buddha's Teaching" is a more scholarly work that fills in much of what ZMSS leaves out. But it should be in your library, and you should read it as an antidote to the words of the teachings. ZMSS's focus was on practice, practice, practice for 10,000 years nonstop; he once told my first Zen teacher, Mu Deung Sunim (later Zen Master Su Bong), "No more books, ok?" If this book does its job, it is likely to get you to put the book down and do some zazen or, of your cup is dirty, to go wash the dishes.

Andrew Weiss, author
"Beginning Mindfulness"

If ever you want a book on Zen, this is it. The A to Zen of Zen.

I love this book and this Zen Master. It is a complete teaching on Zen Buddhism, from basic to advanced subjects. All throughout the book Zen Master Seung Sahn uses personal stories (many of them quite humorous) to help illustrate his points. My own copy is worn from years of reading and re-reading. Perhaps the single most useful phrase I have retained from this book is "How do you keep your mind?" Wonderful book full of excellent guidance. Also has a brief glossary of terms in the back and an excellent selection of Koans to use. I'd recommend it whole-heartedly!

Beginners read this book. Masters read this book. Worth its weight in gold. And yet it's no big deal. :0)

The Compass of Zen is an excellent source of information concerning Zen Buddhism. It is TRULY a compass that sorts out volumes of information concerning Zen Buddhism. Seung Sahn's non-academic language is heart felt and inspiring.
I highly recommend this book for ANYONE who has an interest in Zen and meditation.

The Book of Concord is a collection of documents that lays out what Confessional Lutherans "believe, teach, and confess." This edition of the Book of Concord is a "Reader's Edition" and is intended for laity who have not yet studied these Lutheran Documents thoroughly.

The documents that make up the Book of Concord are: The Apostles Creed; the Nicene Creed; the Athanasian Creed; The Augsburg Confession; The Apology of the Augsburg Confession; The Smalcald Articles; The Treatise on the Power and Primacy of the Pope; Luther's Small Catechism; Luther's Large Catechism; and The Formula of Concord. Each document is prefaced with a thorough introduction concerning its historical context, a brief analysis of the theological controversies addressed, and a biographical sketch of its authors (where applicable). In the longer documents, its various articles are given a paragraph of introduction to prep the reader.

The Three Ecumenical Creeds address the nature of the Triune God and especially the person and work of Jesus. They are written before the second and eighth centuries. These documents not only proclaim Lutheran's continuity with ancient orthodox Christianity, they still address theological heresies present today.

The Augsburg Confession was presented in June, 1530 by college professor Phillip Melanchthon. After the Reformation was fully underway and the authority of Roman Catholic theology challenged, Emperor Charles V requested representatives of Roman Catholicism, Lutheranism, and unaligned (e.g. Calvinist, Zwinglian) theologians to present a statement of their beliefs. This document is the Lutheran statement of beliefs and includes Lutheran beliefs on Justification, Good Works, the Mass, the Sacraments, Monastic Vows, and other issues--both controversial and non-controversial at the time.

The Apology [Defense] of the Augsburg Confession was also written by Phillip Melanchthon and published in 1531. Upon hearing the above-mentioned Augsburg Confession, Roman Catholic theologians presented a "Confutation of the Augsburg Confession" that criticized the Lutheran understanding of the faith and demanded that Lutherans unconditionally accept it (without even presenting a written copy of their critique!). Based on notes taken by Lutherans present at the Confutation's reading, Melanchton recapitulated the Augsburg Confession's main points and defended them against competing Roman Catholic points of doctrine. Major issues addressed in the Apology include Justification, Repentance, Confession and Satisfaction, Human Traditions in the Church, Marriage, and the Mass. This is the longest of the documents of the Book of Concord.

The Smalcald Articles were written by Rev. Dr. Martin Luther in 1536 in preparation for a (never-held) theological conference where Lutherans and Catholics would be asked to discuss and come to mutual agreement on doctrinal points so as to establish peace. These are intended to be points of doctrine upon which Lutherans could and would not compromise. Major doctrinal points addressed include the Invocation of Saints, Repentance, and the Papacy. It should be noted that Luther (falsely) anticipated his own death to be imminent, so this document is considered a "Last Will and Testament" of sorts.

"The Treatise on the Power and Primacy of the Pope" was written by Philip Melanchton in 1537 to serve as a supplement to the Augsburg Confession. It addresses the Papacy and hierarchical structure of the Roman Catholic Church from a Biblical perspective.

Martin Luther's Small Catechism (1529) was written by Martin Luther to aide Christian fathers in handing down the basics of the Christian faith to their children. The six chief parts of the Catechism are the Ten Commandments; The Apostles Creed; the Lord's Prayer; Holy Baptism; Confession and Absolution; and Holy Communion. It is presented in a question-and-answer format and is intended to be memorized by children verbatim.

Martin Luther's Large Catechism (1529) was written by Martin Luther as an aide for Christian pastors in handing down the basics of the Christian faith to their parishioners. It consists of excerpts from a series of sermons on the Ten Commandments, Apostles Creed, Lord's Prayer, Baptism, Confession and Absolution, and Communion. It covers these issues in a more in-depth, yet straightforward manner.

Finally, the Formula of Concord was written by Jacob Andrae, Martin Chemnitz, and Nicholas Selnecker in 1577. After the death of Martin Luther, those who called themselves Lutherans became polarized. Some were willing to compromise nearly all doctrinal points in favor of peace between Lutheran, Catholic, Enthusiasts, and Calvinists; others held to the above documents...yet disagreed on other points of doctrine. Andrae, Chemnitz, and Selnecker dug deep into the writings of Martin Luther and presented his teachings on controversial topics. Free Will, Good Works, The Person of Christ, and Calvinist's teachings on Predestination are among the topics addressed.

The book has beautiful woodcuts, biographical sketches, and other historical documents scattered throughout to aide the reader's understanding of the theology and historical context. Helpful appendices are included, including a glossary, index of persons and groups, Bible references, and the "Catelog of Testimonies" (quotes from ancient Church Fathers that support the Lutheran understanding of the faith).

Editors Paul Timothy McCain, Robert Cleveland Baker, Gene Edward Veith, and Edward Andrew Engelbrecht are to be commended for presenting an majestic and reader-sensitive presentation of these important documents.

This is simply put an excellent Book. If you are Lutheran thinking about becoming one, or even if you are a Christian, You should really put this book high on you list of books to read. It sums up what Christianity is about and what it is to be a TRUE Lutheran...Not a Liberal Lutheran. If you are Liberal YOU REALLY NEED TO STUDY and learn to follow this book. - Not a slam just a fact!

Absolutely amazing, wonderful book. Concordia is an absolute must read, whether Catholic, Lutheran, or other protestant Christians. Please read and enjoy.

The Concordia book of Concord provides great resource material for working out your faith. It is however, a book for those looking for greater insight into doctrines and passages of scripture, but not a book initially for those unfamiliar with what the Bible says.

Sometimes it is difficult to use this version in a Bible study where other's have previous versions because page numbers do not match up.

It's been said that when the philosophers and scientists climb their mountains of knowledge, they find the theologians at the top waiting for them. If this is true then the reformation period represents the pinnacle of human intellectual endeavor, and this book stands at the top of any collection of reformation writings.

I'm not a theologian, I consider myself more of a historian. I don't read that many books on theology, but this is clearly one of the best. Some of it is over my (and I suspect most laymen's) heads. Yes, it can bog down in theological tedium for the average reader, but purely from an historical perspective, the book is invaluable in putting the events and characters of the 16th Century German Reformation in place.

The book is organized chronologically, starting with the Augsburg Confession. This simple statement of belief is a must read for any Christian, layman or clergy alike and frames the questions raised by the Reformation in easy to understand terms. It then goes into Melanchthon's Apology (defense) of the Augsburg Confession. Here it starts to bog down and is meant more for serious students of Theology.

Fortunately, it moves quickly back into laymen's territory with the Luther's Small and Large Catechisms. With no offense to my beloved Presbyterian brethren, the organization of the Small and Large Catechisms is superior to the Westminster Catechism, if not as broad in scope.

At this point I should mention one of this book's real hidden gems. Being simple minded, I like a book with lots of pictures. Most theology books are lacking in the graphics department. This one, however, is loaded with color plates of important people of the reformation, although it lacks color portraits of the opponents of the reformation. The black and white wood cuts and color allegorical paintings are fantastic, full of hidden symbols and nuances of 16th century life (remember - historian at heart). I spent hours just looking at the pictures, never mind the text.

Finally the book concludes with the Smalcald Articles and the post Martin Luther Formula of Concord written to delineate Lutheran as opposed to the "Phillipists" Lutheran/Calvinistic hybrid.

A big book - not easy reading. I bought it intending to keep it as a reference, not thinking to read it cover to cover as I did. But having done so, I recommend it to any Christian wanting to really think about their faith on a deeper, more intellectual level than is common in the 21st Century.

At age 45, after considering I've been in the driver seat of my life for the last 14 years provided many opportunities to at the very least give up whining about my circumstances, and on the brighter side recognize my capacity to create, lovelier things. The essay's written by Steve Roberts, however, broadened my perspective even further. Distinguishing power as an ability to be resilient in the face of any eventuality opened my heart to endless possibilities. I have been most struck by the simplicity of experiencing "Love", & "Being Loving", as perhaps an ultimate goal along with listening to my heart. Moreover, owning that I am the knower in my life. With gratitude and deep appreciation I thank you Steve, for sharing your life and your wisdom. I recommend your book often usually followed with a desire to know how it was for them.

Reading this book is like spending time with a dear friend, in the truest sense of the word friend, meaning someone who brings out the best in you. I was entertained, educated and touched by all I read and experienced in reading Cool Mind, Warm Heart. Each time I set the book down I was changed, and I saw the world through fresh eyes. Whoever you are you will love it.

This wonderful book becomes a subtle yet pervasive presence in the reader's life. To experience life through Steve's eyes is like having a still small voice, a Howard Cosells on your shoulder whispering, "You're so much more than you think; there is so much more than you see. Look at it this way, from this angle, over here..."

Reading these candidly written stories, I am invited to consider in ever deeper ways the perspective that everything, every unexpected change offers opportunity to become more than I've considered before. One moment I am reading a story of a man's relationship with his mother who has Alzheimer's or the Swami he met at 8 or his love of wrestling Vermont stones into sculpture, and the next I am wondering why I would choose anything less than love as a response to life. It is like walking in the woods and suddenly glimpsing a grand buck through the trees: I glimpse the greatness I am capable of if I will choose it.

Cool Mind Warm Heart doesn't stay on the pages; it calls my truest self forward, and increases my confidence to be that. I invite you to enjoy the extraordinarily ordinary moments Steve celebrates in his stories.

This is one of the rare books whose stories I "watch" as my eyes move across the written words. So much more than a lovely read, Cool Mind Warm Heart is fully entertaining and compelling. My heart danced from beginning to end!

Cool Mind Warm Heart is a grand adventure in asking the question, "Who am I committed to being beyond all else in life?" Each essay is a delicious piece of honesty and contains the purity of spirit that provides the reader an opportunity to consider life from the vantage of our greatness, not our limitations. Steve Roberts' ability to convey the simplicity of the human spirit is a breath of fresh air, especially in those moments when one feels as though they are gasping for a breath. This book will cause you to consider the vantage from which you view all life and begin to ask your own pointed and poignant questions about what motivates you to do the things you do. And above all else, this book will cause you to smile and laugh out loud!
Kenda Stewart

Corporate America is a refreshing book desperately needed in the business profession, where morals and faith often take a back-seat to success and greed. Corporate America is a must read, especially for anyone in the business world. Whether you are new in your Christian faith, been a Christian for many years or know nothing about Christianity, all can benefit from reading this enriching book. In this quick read the author breaks down each chapter into a different aspect of how the Christian faith can be lived out in a business sense. The author, although a young businessman uses many good illustrations showing the parallels and contrasts between the corporate world and the Christian faith. The author, through his genuine humble approach, does not claim to be some great scholar, but it becomes evident that his intentions in writing the book are pure: that people may grow in their faith.

This book is definitely a good read. Not only does the author discuss different aspects of the business world, but he also ties them in to Christian values and principles. This book is an excellent source for anyone who wants to attain good, moral values. The author ties in many different stories of the business world that he personally encountered to different passages of scripture and Christian teachings. Although the author is a firm believer in the Bible, he successfully teaches the principles that are taught in the Bible. The author displays a sense of humility as well by claiming that he sometimes doesn't "practice what he preaches." However, that shows that he does not claim to be a perfect individual, rather an ordinary guy who values what is good. Overall, this book is a must-read and is a good reminder of what strong, moral values are.

This book is definitely a good read. Not only does the author discuss different aspects of the business world, but he also ties them in to Christian values and principles. This book is an excellent source for anyone who wants to attain good, moral values. The author ties in many different stories of the business world that he personally encountered to different passages of scripture and Christian teachings. Although the author is a firm believer in the Bible, he successfully teaches the principles that are taught in the Bible. The author displays a sense of humility as well by claiming that he sometimes doesn't "practice what he preaches." However, that shows that he does not claim to be a perfect individual, rather an ordinary guy who values what is good. Overall, this book is a must-read and is a good reminder of what strong, moral values are.

This book is definitely a good read. Not only does the author discuss different aspects of the business world, but he also ties them in to Christian values and principles. This book is an excellent source for anyone who wants to attain good, moral values. The author ties in many different stories of the business world that he personally encountered to different passages of scripture and Christian teachings. Although the author is a firm believer in the Bible, he successfully teaches the principles that are taught in the Bible. The author displays a sense of humility as well by claiming that he sometimes doesn't "practice what he preaches." However, that shows that he does not claim to be a perfect individual, rather an ordinary guy who values what is good. Overall, this book is a must-read and is a good reminder of what strong, moral values are.

This book is definitely a good read. Not only does the author discuss different aspects of the business world, but he also ties them in to Christian values and principles. This book is an excellent source for anyone who wants to attain good, moral values. The author ties in many different stories of the business world that he personally encountered to different passages of scripture and Christian teachings. Although the author is a firm believer in the Bible, he successfully teaches the principles that are taught in the Bible. The author displays a sense of humility as well by claiming that he sometimes doesn't "practice what he preaches." However, that shows that he does not claim to be a perfect individual, rather an ordinary guy who values what is good. Overall, this book is a must-read and is a good reminder of what strong, moral values are.

I am a clinical therapist and use this book to inspire adolescent and young adult women in their journey! This entire trilogy is priceless for anyone who is interested in being blessed by watching another soul "unfold" and take flight! I love hearing about Oriah's metamorphasis... i can see her "grow up" throughout her trilogy! Watching her go full circle in her discoveries touches my heart and inspires my soul. She is human and she is courageous enough to share her story. I recommend you read all three... The Invitation, The Dance and The Call. Thank you Oriah!

Within the pages of this beautiful little book, the reader finds magic, truth, beauty and healing.

As an author, Chinese Medicine & Healthy Weight Management, and healer, I recommend this book highly to my patients and friends, as well as to you.

In the world of self-help books, the message is often variations of the same thing - work harder to improve yourself; be kinder; be more loving; focus your attention; change, change, change.
The Dance is quite different. Oriah asks you, "What if there is no need to change, no need to try and transform yourself into someone who is more compassionate, more present, more loving or wise? How would this affect all the places in your life where you are endlessly trying to be better?"
I really loved this book because it encourages the reader to just be who they are, because who they are is just fine. It's not that the author doesn't believe in the power of change, rather she promotes the idea that the moment we let go of our need to become "better," then everything in life will simply unfold as it should.
What I especially liked about this book was Oriah's down-to-earth manner of writing. Unlike so many other authors of the same genre, she doesn't pretend to have all the answers - in fact, she is rather self-deprecating. She gives examples in her life where she really did screw up, but I think that this makes her message more meaningful, and a whole lot more human.




Zara Stevens
Boy Meets Girl: A Pocketful of Wedding Stories

Words themselves can become acts of beauty that awaken and strengthen our commitment to living our soul's desires. ~Oriah Mountain Dreamer

Oriah Mountain Dreamer blends daily existence with spiritual insight. She survived a violent marriage, chronic fatigue and living almost next door to her ex husband when he remarried. Her life is a study in patience, emotional turmoil resolved and survival of the most open heart.

The start of the book contains a poem and then each chapter is an expanded vision of the elements contained in a part of the poem. After the poem, Oriah dives right into a retelling of her life, the conflicts she has experienced and how as a spiritual teacher, she too struggles to maintain emotional equilibrium. There is a subtle comfort in knowing that if Oriah can survive her life, then we can too.

This is the beauty mingled with the various stunning insights Oriah has while trying to unburden her heart and pull us out on the dance floor of life. She loves to read and a number of the books she mentioned where books I had just recently read. She quotes Rainer Maria Rilke and Rumi. She discusses Daniel Ladinsky's translations of Hafiz. Her "headed for home" comments made me think of Kahlil Gibran's The Prophet.

Throughout this work Oriah focuses on connecting, serenity, joy, an authentic lifestyle, living with passion, retaining energy and focus, being honest and finding happiness within the complex. She also provides meditations on worthiness, surrender, slowing down and letting go.

This is not a five-step or a ten-step program, it is more an unfolding of experience through an exploration of Oriah's life experience. She has struggled, she has survived. She also knows there are no quick fixes and that many self-help programs are no match for real-life situations. Sometimes there is no easy way out of the pain and you have to endure heartache to learn your greatest lessons.

"Take me to the places on the earth that teach you how to dance,
the places where you can risk letting the world break your heart,
and I will take you to the places where the earth beneath my feet
and the stars overhead make my heart whole again and again."
~ Oriah Mountain Dreamer

What did I love most about this book? The section where she talks about her ultimate fantasy of reading in bed with the man she loves. Yes, this book is mostly about Oriah, or the people she has met throughout her life, but the way she draws on her inner wisdom is by experiencing life and dancing with difficulty.

~The Rebecca Review

The Dance is a great book. I enjoyed it from the first page to the last. Oriah is not just a writer; she is an artist, with a new perspective on life, and on events. Her thoughts flow smoothly, as if you were reading something you wrote, or something you already knew to be true. I am going to say it again, she is an artist.

Some parts of the book, you won't help but read out loud to someone you care for. I did that with my mother, and some other times with a friend of mine. Both of them want to borrow the book.

This book will help you dream, and here I will quote something from the author, as she wrote "To dream is to create the stories of how we live our lives, and these are the stories our children's children will remember. I write with as much honesty and frankness as I can, because I want to offer stories of being present with what is. I recite poetry when I speak, because I want offer beauty and the power of art to remind us of who and what we are. I share personal stories, because I want to cocreate a story of intimacy and cultivate our capacity for compassion in dealing with out human failings. I tell love stories because I want to learn how to love well." (p151)

I will buy The Call, and I know it will be as good as the Invitation and The Dance. And hopefully one day in the future I will make it to one of Oriah's retreats.

Sams is a profoundly gifted writer and spiritual teacher. I highly recommend this book to anyone on the spiritual path.

I believe this statement reflects Jamie's chief goal for this book: this statement is listed in the authors note, preceeding the text. I don't think it is possible to draw a universal map of consciousness applicable to all humans. The chief reason being is that some folks never get past the 1st commandment let alone rise to metaphysical heights described in the text. Further, unless the reader has more than a beginners background in the metaphysical - or enjoys flipping back and forth between the text and the glossary - the reading can be difficult.

I gave this book five stars for what it DOES do, and that is a whole lot more than 99% of the metaphysical works I have read:

It paints a picture of the onesness of all existence, even though most of existence sees itself as seperate from everything else;

It bashes the notion that only enlighted earthly masters can achieve spirituality;

It clearly describes the downfalls of anyone being overimpressed with their spiritual progress;

It provides healers with a strong dose of reality: not to forget that therapy patients come to you because they are sick...there is pressure in them staying sick so you can make money;

It confronts head on the notion that a healer can see oodles of people on end: a handful may be too many;

It rightfully makes warriors out of beings immersed in the waters of daily life and it's endless tortures and misfortunes;

It superbly raises these tribulations to the status of lessons, encouraging hope and joy in the struggle;

It clearly points out that transformation is not a linear process;

It describes this circular process as seven different paths: this description allows readers to compare, contrast, and analyze later;

It describes the first hand accounts of Jamie in her path of transformation;

Read the book for yourself: you can't put it down.

This book is easy to read, with sensible suggestions that can be incorporated into your life with relative ease.

Jamie Sams once again takes us on a journey through the layers of our spirit by bringing a complete understanding to the path we walk.

Sams book certainly provides the reader with much material to ponder. It's definitely not the type of book to be read in one sitting and it's not a real "page turner". Instead, the truths Ms. Sams explores are best digested slowly. Perhaps this is most appropriate since she is describing a spiritual journey that lasts a lifetime and more. The diagrams are helpful.