General Practice Books

I was suprised by the review calling it 'fluffy'. Obviously it depends on what perspective you approach from. This book is almost legendary in both Neo-Pagan and Traditional circles as the best reference for what we do and why we do it. If you're not serious about your religion AND your craft, skip it, if oyu are, then, this book will fill a gap left by most of the other stuff on the market. Worth it at ANY price.

Blacksun is my intiator, my teacher, and my friend. I saw this book in MS. I have seen the principles he teaches in action. I have watched him create magic with them. I have used them myself. For those who would create ritual, I say listen to him.

It's a shame this book is out of print, because Blacksun has written the best book I've yet to run across on how to construct ritual. He points out the all the steps involved with planning and producing a ritual. Anyone who wants to learn the theory of good ritual construction should buy this book. It's a standard text I use with all my students.

Blacksun, as no other author to my knowlege, has explained in great detail the how and why of ritual as well as spelled out instruction for constructing your own. I do have to agree with one point of other reviews that I have read on other books, most which I have read myself, in that they all pretty much have the same "fluffy" content. There is absolutely no "fluff" in this book. Take a look at what you claim to be your religion - a duality in deity and nature, as is addressed in all those "fluffy" books, would also suggest a duality in everything wouldn't it? Good and bad, light and dark. If you look hard enough, this book can help you keep them in balance and keep your life in balance.

The Spell of Making tells you how to create wonderful, effective Pagan rites, step by step and as quickly as possible. It's a great resource for all those Witches out there who create rituals on a regular basis and want to make meaningful contributions to their Coven's BOS. {Those of you with carved-in-stone rituals probably won't find it too helpful, however.} Blackstone's sincerity and sense of humor make this book an enjoyable read. If you need recommendations for your "advanced" reading list, add this one!

In her book, "The Spirits of Sexual Perversion", author Laneen Haniah presents various forms of dysfunctional sexuality, and the ways to conquer them. This book is a must read for those that are struggling to break free from the web of sexual addictions, as well as those that have family members or friends with the struggle. One of the aspects that I so appreciated about the book is that Laneen doesn't just describe the problems, she offers remedies and viable solutions. Buy this book for yourself, or for someone that you care about. You won't regret it!

O.K.

I have to admit I was a little skeptical about reading this book upon looking at the cover.

However, once I had opened the book and started reading, there was no turning back (I was completely drawn into it); the testimonies, personal experiences, and the break down of sexual occurrences that I had even experienced in my own life was a real eye opener to why things had not been working out for me with regard to relationships with others (not just my husband)......I trusted no one and because of this, life was just not worth living!!!

Thank God for the author who was bold enough to touch upon issues that are so hushed in the churches today......You've changed my life in a most positive way!!!

God bless!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Bluntly, this book (truly called of God) will only work for those who really want deliverance in the area of sexual perversion; and are willing (and wholly submitted) to allowing Min. Haniah to take them, step-by-step, through the deliverance/healing process! Based solely on the unadulterated and uncompromised Scriptures of the Bible, each anointed word shared by Min. Haniah is invoked by Holy Ghost-inspired revelation and personal experience of Christ's finished work on the Cross in her life, while serving as a floodlight to one's soul (mind, will and emotions) exposing what satan wants to keep hidden in darkness.

I, myself, an incest overcomer, have first-hand experience of God's matchless power behind this book as it was, in large part, a mighty tool used in the godly counseling I previously received from Min. Haniah. United with the Bible (the foremost Authority in all issues of life), prayer, and submission to her commanding, without concession (yet loving/encouraging) teaching, my deliverance is a manifested reality which, as an ordained minister, I now use to share with others who are bound as I lead them on their journey to becoming overcomers from the demonic spirits of sexual abuse and/or addiction in their lives. God wastes nothing as all things work together for good...!

To say "The Spirits of Sexual Perversion Handbook" is a provocative read is, by far, an understatement: It is a weapon...a spiritual weapon for spiritual warfare, which as you humble yourself under the mighty hand of God, will eradicate sexual sin from your life...and as you take authority, the lives of those in your future generations. The question now is, "How bad do you want it?".

"Sin is no longer your master...." Rom. 6:14

Minister Yvette S. Ellington

This book is awesome and a answer to my prayers. The author Laneen Haniah created a master pieces with direction from the Holy Spirit to send such an annointed Word of God to many of us who needs deliverance from Spirits of Sexual Perversion. As I was really disappointed with my husbands lust for porno and not knowing what else to do, I came accross this book which not only shed some light on my husband addiction, but also on some of my own issues that were in the dark. Laneen caught my attention and I felt a strong connection, when she opened up herself and explained her history.

If anyone of your are searching from answers, please stop and look no further. All of you answers are in this book, along with much prayer and sacrifice.

God Bless,

The Spirits of Sexual Perversion is an awesome, anointed read. Author Laneen Haniah, had to be intuned with God to get the revelation that she shares in this book.

Our church purchased this book for several women in our church, and they're recognizing strongholds, and have sought God for deliverance. They're also telling other women that they've come in contact with to purchase the book. I strongly recommend this book to any woman struggling with sexual issues, or baggage from the past.

My husband bought me this book for our 10th wedding anniversary. It was one of the best gifts I've ever received. It speaks to the reader in a very personal way. It makes one believe that with love for all beings, we can achieve peace. Even if it's as simple as not being upset when driving in your car. It helps one to realize what/who is important in one's life and to learn to appreciate it/them.

I love all of Thich Nhat Hanh's writings, this is no exception. He will speak directly to your heart, and your heart will resonate with the truth of his message, no matter which of his books you read.

The author has this flow in his writing that captivates you. No matter what religious practice you follow, this book will touch your heart in some way and definately elivate your mind. It is written by a Buddhist monk but his teachings are universal and it truely opened my eyes to new light. This is a must have in any person's book collection that has any want to grow as a person.

Zen Master Thich Naht Hanh's approach to teaching Zen Buddhism is enlightening. I have found many of the teachings very useful in the practice of true Dharma. I believe anyone can practice these teachings regardles of faith or religious affiliation. It is a wonderful book which anyone following a spiritual path can profit from. It is inspiring and full of the energy of mindfulness we all need to live freely and happily.

I just refered about 8 people to this book in the past week so I figured I should add a review here also.
this book is REALLY and TRULY LIFE CHANGING... there is something about the words and the way its written that you can't put it down until you're finished reading it, and there's an overwhelming sense of peace that comes over everyone who reads and finishes it.
it is short... to the point.. and really inspirational. i keep a copy on my bedside table and open it almost every day to find the nearest highlighted quote to give me energy...
Since i have read this book (and his other books also) i have seriously changed my life for the better... it is so simple to do... you realize the power of peaeful and mindful living and how easy it is to do

I had the pleasure of meeting this author/speaker, and joy sparkles from her eyes, though she's blind. This book is a treasure to anchor your heart to Christ. The book takes you on a life's journey filled with bumps in the road and roadblocks, but Jan Eckles overcomes each obstacle placed in her path by keeping her heart and faith anchored in Christ. Join Jan on her life's journey. Read about how she lost her sight at 30. Then, she lost something even more precious than her sight--her son. Her life has not been easy, but she has perserved and anchored her heart in Christ through all of her earthly trials and tribulations. She didn't work when she was sighted, but she's found her life's calling and is able to see more through insight than sighted people. Google Jan Eckles to enjoy her inspirational blog and newsletter.

Barbara J. Robinson
Author/Educator/Freelance Writer
http://barbarajrobinson.blogspot.com/

Even though the main motivator for most readers to buy this book is the fact that it is extremely inspirational, I also want to comment that Jan's writing style itself makes the book a pleasure to read. I love how she is able to convey ideas with richness and simplicity at the same time.

I also enjoyed how vividly she describes Bolivia, both through her own eyes, and through her mother's memories. When I read about her family's arrival to St. Louis, especially the culture shock and language barriers, it occurred to me that she described these things in such a way that *anyone* would be able to understand them. For example, I enjoyed the line about the new language sounding like indecipherable noises, especially as it is clear that this is a language the author now masters.

There were so many things I loved about this book, and so many lines that stood out to me... as I was reading, there were many times where I either laughed out loud, gasped in shock or welled up - I think any reader would do the same.

Hearing all of the things the author went through, especially in her experience of gradually losing her sight, it is hard for anyone to imagine, yet somehow she puts the reader in her shoes, and we can feel her emotions - shocked, horrified, fearful, angry, hopeful, determined, saddened, grateful, happy - all of these. What a brave woman she is, and an inspiration to everyone.

It is obvious that Jan is a natural communicator (no wonder she excels as an interpreter), someone who wants to reach out with her heart and share with others whatever she can to help so that they may draw on her experience. But part of her success in communicating is that she has something important to express. I thank her for being willing to share her story so candidly, and with such grace, for others to hear.

I look forward to reading more from this writer.

I found the book to be very positive and uplifting. The author really gave me a sense of being able to find the good in all things, even if we don't recognize it right away. God does have a plan for us after all!

I loved this book because Jan Eckles opens her heart to you as you're turning the pages. You will be encouraged as she shares her life, both thru her triumphs and tragedies. As I read, I felt the Lord Jesus speaking to me through Jan's words. I reread parts of the story that I felt gave me hope in my own life. I've already bought a copy for a friend, and I highly recommend this book to you.

What a joy it was to read how God worked in the life of Jan. It was refreshing to see her honesty as she revealed intimate details of her walk with the Lord. God has truly blessed her and she has chosen to look beyond physical difficulties and family loss.

This book will not only encourage those who face trials but offer hope in God's eternal love toward all of us. Jan is a true example of a child of God.

Donald Kraybill does an outstanding job of showing that what Jesus is all
abut is pretty much contrary to our normal assumptions--that is wahat he means by "the upside-down kingdom." What Jesus preached and what he lived is almost the opposite of what we consider normal or workable. For instance, Jesus said that the only solution to violence is non-violence, in any and all situations. We don't just tolerate those people we can't stand, we actively recriut their help, promote their well-being and have them understand that they are of immense importance, whether we agree we them or not. Love is what animates all of our thinking and doing, a love that goes out of the way to include everyone. A truly great book that will cause a person to rethink Jesus and what is meant as to His being the son of God--and just what is demanded of those of us who claim to be His followers.

The book, The Upside-Down Kingdom, is an excellent book. I would highly recommend it. I also would highly recommend your services. You, again, were very prompt and very accurate in your response. Thank you. Agnes Goertzen

Don Kraybill has done a wonderful job of clearing any misconceptions of the purpose of Jesus' ministry in the three years he was on this earth. Kraybill looks at opposites in our society such as rich and poor, slave and free, amongst others and tackling the realities of each being apart of the other. The book has had a real impact on my relationship with God and my relationship with others. I recommemd the book to anyone who is looking for ways to make changes in our right-side up kingdom.

"-teaching and preaching ministries ought to call people to a common faith in Jesus Christ that transcends social ties. Is our common bond of unity in Christ stronger than the social glue that holds us together? This is precisely the genius of the gospel. Diverse people from all sorts of boxes are reconciled together in Jesus Christ." (pg 226)

Kraybill, Donald B. The Upside Down Kingdom Revised Ed. Scottdale, Pennsylvania: Herald Press, 1990. 275pg.

Authors Purpose(s)
In part this book is meant to show the believer what the world could be if we would only live out the beatitudes in our lives. The book clearly has human relationships in mind with everything it says. It is an assessment of the sociological systems in place and the statements of Jesus. It is about the upside down kingdom that Jesus ushered us into and how he was not only countercultural in His day but also in our own. As Donald Kraybill writes, "I hope the upside down perspective will provoke stimulating discussions enabling Christian believers to more accurately discern God's will for their lives."
Survey of Covered Topics
1. In the first section of this book Donald Kraybill defines the world he sees around him as being upside down from the world God created for His people. He also looks at a number of "detour[s]" that people use to "evade the kingdom message and bypass its relevance for today." These detours include a number of lies we allow ourselves to believe, such as seeing Jesus as culturally irrelevant to our society or the over spiritualization of Christ's words that make them emotional and take away from their practicality.
2. The second section of the book deals with the political, religious, and economic situations or Jesus' day. The main thrust however is devoted to political sways. Special interest is paid to the attitudes of the Jews towards gentile culture around the time of Alexander and Herod the Great.
3. This third section deals with the complexities of Jewish code and its casts of people. Great descriptors are given of the temple and the worshipers and solid distinctions are made between casts. Most importantly however is the explanation of those Jews for whom hope was found in the coming kingdom of the Messiah.
4. In the fourth section Kraybill asks the reader to look at the divisions of wealth and poor. There is also an important underlining theme that suggests Christ' wish to return to Galilee and care for the physical needs of the poor. It is clearly a precursor to talk later about "blessed is the poor" and "blessed are the hungry" in later chapters.
5. Chapter five is closely related as is talks about slavery and Jubilee. This chapter is about God being the true owner of everything including the people of the world and how we are but lowly stewards of his creation. It is about Christ and his relationship to the people and about a new kind of celebration of the Jubilee in an unexpected way.
6. This section of the book gives an extremely interesting picture of Zacchaeus and the rich young ruler and the existence of "treasures in heaven" and gives a wonderful example of Christ' view of money. Continually Christ used stories and images to overturn the assumptions of the day and uphold the low, the poor and the oppressed. Interestingly though the poor are not let off the hook by Christ when it comes to giving. They are shown to be just as expected to give as everyone else. (127)
7. Similarly Chapter seven looks at the parable of the talents and our responsibility to what we have been given from God. The chapter also talks about the ancient version of "health and wealth gospel" and how we are to seek the Kingdom of God's Judgment and not monetary wealth. It also talk about the persistent presence of the poor, the importance of tithing, the attitude and means by which you give, and perhaps most importantly the ability to asses ourselves on the world scale of wealth and not on the lists printed in Forbes.
8. In this section Mr. Kraybill devotes much time to the discussion of piety. He writes about the divisions of Pharisees and Sadducees. He writes about the Laws of Moses and differing applications. He writes about Jesus' picking of grain on the Sabbath and about cleanliness. Christ' expectance of the "unclean" or "last" is a direct counter to the culture of the Church in his day and Kraybill presents a case by which Jesus upturned this system. (159)
9. By chapter nine, Donald Kraybill has begun to get into the more difficult assertion of Christ to love ones enemies. Here much attention is paid to the word "Agape" and how it is applied to loving our neighbors who Kraybill describes as "everyone". (188) Though not fully dealt with in terms of "Law" Kraybill also confronts Jesus' command to overturn or add to the law of "an eye for an eye". (190-195) Perhaps nowhere else does the author show Christ' upside down ideas about the kingdom then he does here.
10. The tenth chapter of this book focuses on the different kinds of social connections people make with each other. It then shows the reader a number of applications including nationalism, ethnic superiority, religious piety, and sexual discrimination. These things Mr. Kraybill calls blocks "to the commission to evangelize", and what's more he gives examples of Jesus breaking down these barriers. (226)
11. In this section Donald Kraybill talks about the authority of Jesus and how he uses it for the good of others. It is about how Jesus came to serve and "look up the ladder". (244) As Kraybill writes "The hallmark of Jesus' upside-down power was his willingness to spurn what was rightfully his. Instead of mimicking a typical king, Jesus worked from the bottom up. Rather than demanding service, he served. Rather than dominating he invited."
12. The final chapter of this book is a simple recap of the previous sections. In it Kraybill writes about Jesus as a servant and a washer of feet. He writes about Christ living what seems to us as an upside down kingdom. He writes about a Jesus who "-challenged the conventional definitions of religious behavior", and who "upset the bedrock assumptions of the pious". (259)
Critical Assessment
Positive
First and foremost I noticed Donald Kraybill's great and undeniable love for his Bible. The stories he tells are wonderfully told and right from his heart. Second, I could not help but appreciate that Christ was not shown only through the modern rose colored glasses that see him only as meek and mild. Instead He is shown as a figure of great authority and power yelling "Get thee behind me Satan!", and as the man who told the disciples to buy swords at the Last Supper. (36; 56) In addition I found chapter two to be extremely informative. Kraybill's information of the Jubilee was new to me and that is becoming somewhat rare at this point in my studies. (93)
As well I found chapter six to be particularly intriguing. It is a chapter that could launch a hundred sermons and I am sure to use it in the future. Especially I loved the analysis of Zacchaeus and the rich young ruler as it introduces a number of wonderful topics. Most interestingly though are the small tidbits of information that expound upon the details of the biblical texts all throughout this book. They are insightful, sometimes questionable but always interesting. Although these seemingly unimportant details make up the majority of my "positives" list, I also found the point of the book to be right on target. The upside down kingdom of Christ is presented with crystal clarity. The lives that we could be living are staring up at us from the words of Jesus and today's Church should be attempting to turn our systems on end in light of the cross.
Negative
Though surprising to me, I have little to complain about from this book. The "negatives" I have are miniscule and largely stylistic. One problem that I had with the book is the assertion that "Jesus [wasn't] tempted to turn stones into bread merely because he was hungry" and the subsequent remarks in the book that I believe over dramatize and go far beyond what we are told in the Bible. (74) For me the literary liberties that are taken seem to overtake common sense and in some cases distract me from the reading.
Another sore point with me (though it was only but a drop of water in the ocean of this book) is the small section devoted to war. As much as I would love to agree with complete pacifism, I find myself living in a much more difficult world where even God begins His new creation with a war in which we will play a role. In addition I was also bothered by the amount of time devoted to "Agape". In my opinion far too much attention has been misguidedly paid to the distinction of "Agape" love; so much so that I can hardly stand to hear it anymore. With recent insights into this word, I would "Agape" to see "Agape" a lot less emphasized. (200-201) Personally I find most of what is said in this section to be overanalyzed and incorrect. As to the main idea of the book I can find no real fault.
Application to Ministry
Application to Personal Ministry
As far as applicability to my personal ministry, this book is very applicable. It is not just applicable in that I will attempt to change my world (though I agree with the personal effort to do away with cast systems both here and abroad), but it is also applicable as a teaching tool. Honestly I find this book to be a great resource for sermons, illustrations, and small group bible studies. Especially useful in my opinion are the questions following each section. I have no doubt that this book will prove an important resource in my library and I am glad that I bought it.
Rating the Book
Organization
[8] The book has a lot of overlap and many of the chapters could easily have been
combined. For example: 2-4 & 8-11
Clear statement of purpose
[8] There is no one "I wrote this book to..." statement that lays out exactly the function
of the book however, it is stated none the less.
Readability
[10] This book is written at about a 6th grade level. (This is fine - it is the average reading level of people in North America.) It is smooth and each chapter moves easily into the next.
Informative content
[7] It believe it is very informative, however it is hard to distinguish what is professional
liberty and what is exegetical at times.
Usefulness for your understanding and practice of ministry
[7] I agree fully with the topic of a countercultural Christ and Church and yet I always
did; so there is little impact on me as far as persuasion. I believe my understanding
and practice of ministry has always headed in this direction. Even so it proves to be a
good resource.

I will never forget the confused look I received from the audience when I said, "The Kingdom of God is Upside-Down." This revealed to me that many Christians probably have not given a lot of thought to the Kingdom of God. If the Body of Christ fully understood this Kingdom... I don't think she would squinch her eyes at the words "Upside Down." And I certainly don't believe we would be giving in to the temptations Christ rejected!

Kraybill focuses primarily on the temptations of Christ (Matt.4) to reveal the true character of the Kingdom of God. Jesus rejected the temptations in the bread (the economic), the temple leap(the religious), and the kingdoms of the world (the political)... thus accomplishing heaven's task in a way that is foolishness to the world(1 Cor.1:18). If you have had a hard time understanding the Kingdom of God and want to learn how this Kingdom makes no sense to human wisdom... but is the power of God to those being saved... get this book. Wonderful insights into the radical claims of the Kingdom!

I would also like to recommend "The Gospel of the Kingdom" by George E. Ladd

This is a great book to renew or discover an appreciation for the Blessed Sacrament.

This book gives a simple yet profound explanation of the Eucharist. Although thought provoking, it is easy and relaxed reading. It is truly a book you will read over and over again!

I bought this book based solely on Fr. Benedict Groeschel's praise, and he is absolutely right. This can truly be a life-changing read, and although it can be read very quickly it deserves to be pondered prayerfully and deliberately. It is not a theological treatise on the Eucharist, nor is it a history of Eucharistic devotion or doctrine, so it is not the best place to start for someone who does not already have at least a basic understanding of what the Eucharist is all about. I would not, for example, recommend it to a non-Catholic friend who wants to know why Catholics believe Christ is truly present in the Eucharist or someone who is looking for an introduction to the theology of the Eucharist. But, there are tremendous riches in these pages: Vinny Flynn has, in effect, summarized centuries of the best Eucharistic theology and presented it in a deeply personal and spiritually charged way. If you are looking for a book that will light within your heart a new fire of devotion to Christ in the Eucharist and inspire you to share that love with others, this is the place to start. I expect to return to this book many times in years to come, especially at those times when I feel myself growing spiritually lukewarm.

If you are a Director of Catholic faith there can be no greater gift that you can purchase for your teachers as the 7 Secrets of the Eucharist. This book makes you take a complete look at yourself and the way that you previously celebrated the Eucharist. You will never beable to celebrate the Eucharist like you did before you read about the 7 Secrets of the Eucharist. This book is a must for all catholic families.

I purchased this book for myself and after reading I purchased extra copies as a Christmas gift for all of my Catechist.

I love the book. But I'm sure the author knows more secrets. It's interesting that a book like this should eminate from a layman.-- Not surprising but interesting. Give us more, more more.
Jack

This is a recently published version of the classic volume "As a Man Thinketh" by James Allen. It has been skillfully edited and de-genderized by publisher/author Marc Allen in order to serve as an inspiration for both men and women in our modern times. Throughout the last century, countless individuals have been moved and inspired by this easy to read little primer on the secret of successful living.

The premise of this book is the spiritual wisdom from the Book of Proverbs:
"As you think in your heart, so you are."

In the course of the volume, James Allen clearly describes how clarity of mind, linked with good intentions, can transform our experience of life and release the creative spirit within us all. The ultimate outcome of embracing the simple philosophy of this book is: Serenity.

In 1904 a little book was written called As a Man Thinketh. This book is a rewriting of that classic by the grandson of the original author. It is not just a self-help book, a self-empowerment, but a truth that will grip your heart. Each of us has tracks that we play in our minds, things spoken over us in our youth, by parents, teachers, coaches and friends. We have believed these things and lived by them. This book reminds us that what we believe in our minds and hearts will live out in our flesh. It will help us understand that all we achieve or fail to achieve is first a perception in our minds.

Audio books are excellent reading options or gifts for persons with little time to read or who's sight is challenged or who spend significant time commuting. This audio version is very well read and is of excellent recorded quality. BEWARE that there are some horrifically cruddy readings / very poor audio versions of this book being sold on Ebay and other online places, but this particular audio version from Amazon is excellent in every way. I listen to this tape frequently and something always stands out as very pertinent, almost as if new, every time I listen.

In this edition of "As a Man Thinketh," Marc Allen (no relation to author James Allen), neuters the male overtones by replacing all references to "man" (which I always interpreted as "humanity," not a male or female) with the more sensitive third person and he/she variations. Somehow the statement "as a man thinketh, so is he," does not translate well to "as a person thinketh, so is she or he."

Marc Allen points out that in the Buddhist tradition, a book opens with a poem. If the reader can understand the poem, he or she has grasped the meaning of the book, and need not read the entire book. Here is James Allen's opening poem:

Mind is the master power that molds and makes,
And we are mind, and evermore we take
the tool of thought,and shaping what we will,
Bring forth a thousand joys, a thousand ills.
We think in secret,and it comes to pass--
Our world is but our looking glass.

Thoreau said something similar in a shorter version where he alludes to how the mind of man can create a heaven or hell for itself.

What a fantastic helpful simple book - really helps you wade through the jargon of typical self help books and get away from marketing it is the instruction book on the mind...

easy to read and excellent to keep and read over and over..

Recently I had the privilege of visiting with David Spangler at a conference and to experience his practice of blessing! It feels like the love of a lilting song, the light of the sun, and a clearer view of the world. In this book Spangler guides the reader with wisdom and love gained from his years of experience, expression, and expansion.

Blessing demonstrates with many examples how much difference a blessing can make. Blessings do not require physical presence; they can be received thousands of miles away. They do not require a special religious belief. A blessing from the essence self travels instantly to its destination.

In Blessing we realize that we simply cannot make this clear connection with anyone without rising into greater light ourselves. David Spangler makes it easy to connect the best and highest part of our being with that of another.

Do not be surprised if you find yourself standing in the splendor of the soul when you practice sending blessings. It is healing for everyone involved. This practice would be a great addition to the Temple of Healing in Healing Yourself with Light: How to Connect with the Angelic Healers

Whether you are giving or receiving a blessing, the joy is deep and fulfilling. I urge everyone who would like to experience greater love within and without to read this book and begin practicing the art of blessing.

When we want to help others in a gentle yet powerful way, this book makes it easy. I learned how to bless others, and also that I can bless my work, a project, a sacred space, the world, - the possibilities are endless. Yet he also explains when a blessing is not the most effective gift in certain situations. It isn't something done casually, but with intent and awareness. Giving or sharing a blessing is both simple and rewarding, especially when two people sit together and invoke a blessing. We can also offer blessings at a distance. Time and space do not affect this divine energy.

The exercises are quite useful and can be used by one person alone, two people, or even with a group. This book offers so much that can enrich our everyday life and is easy to read and understand. I felt like David was talking directly to me, and offering me a blessing also.

My suggestion: get this book to enjoy the blessings it will bring to you and your friends

I cannot thank the author enough for such a warm, inspiring and eloquent presentation of how connection to life itself can be deepened through acts of blessing.
I am not an avid reader of spiritual texts -- I am a RABID reader! This book is opening up undreamed of potential in my spiritual life and will be a true companion to me for years to come.

This book has excellent content but poor print quality. I contacted the publisher-Riverhead/Penquin Putnam and they told me to return it to them. I received a replacement and it is no different. They wanted me to return it to Amazon but I contend that it is not Amazon's problem. It is indeed a print quality issue which should be addressed by Riverhead.

Do you remember when you exchanged a "moment" with a stranger and saw a twinkle in their eye that shined from them so brightly that the rest of your day went so well you were "totally great"? That because the light that you saw was actually a reflection of your spirit coming back to you in joy? David Spangler shares this in this amazing treasure chest of thoughts, ideas and helpful exercises to allow us all an opportunity to become that blessing to ourselves and others,to enter that "blessing space."
On page 17 he explains that the art of blessing is the practice of being connected to each other in the most amazing way because we all have this space inside us readily available.When we discover this and "realize it" a beautiful thing happens and that gift to each other...is our "self." By accepting the love that flows through us we effortlessly receive blessings, give blessings to others and become a blessing in and of itself. I ask a blessing for the thought of a "radiance of blessings" as David Spangler shares Dr. Brugh Joy, his friend and colleagues special thought, to shower us with light and love! A blessing that will appear as a Rainbow of humanities love for its "self."

Christina Baldwin's Calling the Circle is a book that offers information critical to our survival as a human community. How do we break through our cultural barriers and relearn how to treat one another with respect and honor the collective wisdom that we so desperately need at this time in our history? Read this book to find a proven methodology, a way of being together that, when practiced allows us to connect on a heart level, to honor and understand one another even though we may disagree. We need this information now more than ever.

This is a book for our times. Christina provides a much needed paradigm - a new container within which human interaction can happen in a spirit of respect and tolerance. It is an important answer for anyone who has ever wondered how to be a peace maker in their own lives and in the world. I have used what Christina teaches, and it enhances every interaction all the way from talks with my spouse to large organizational meetings. It is useful at every level of life. It is beautifully written, and it leaves you with highly useful tools in your hand and hope in your heart.

This was simply a lovely book I recommend it to everyone

Baldwin's book provides easy to follow guidelines on how to use circle methodology in a variety of settings. You can do some of the pieces or all of the pieces and they apply in multiple settings. I often facilitiate meetings with clients and found Calling the Circle to be one of the most valuable tools I have for taking a group beyond the flip chart and multi-voting.

This book has been waiting for us to get ready to do something really different-- speak honestly and heartfully and listen compassionately. I've been looking for some way to help elicit the level of conversation that is missing all around us, and calling the circle is an essential tool that needs to come back into the mainstream. Baldwin's book is not the only one out there, but it's a classic, and when you look at her website she's been walking her talk a long time...PeerSpirit is what she calls her circle methodology-- it's highly adaptable. Try this at home. Then try it at work. Then try it in your neighborhood. We will surprise each other with who we really are!

This was a required text for a design class. I found it pretty useful (in conjunction with the other text), and ended up keeping both for reference books when the class was completed.

Well written and informative. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in learning about color.

There are zillions of books on this complex world of color.

This one is the best for all Interior Designers, students and teachers, it is written by John F. Pile, an authority in Interior Design. You will enjoy learning the Color Systems for your business, and covers the historical aspect of of the Bauhaus School of Design, and also color in Historic Interiors, including artists and personal experiences.

Michele Beatriz

As a lay person just interested in learning more about the use of color in interior design, this was an excellent book. While the first several chapters were very "text bookish", the remainder was very layman friendly. I feel more confident in undertaking color projects in my home and in conversing about the use of color with friends, who are now asking my opinions. The chapters that helped me the most were on the color wheel and color relationships. I enjoyed it and will now pursue my interest in color and design.

it's a really helpful book for designers.you can find whatever you need about colors...