Book Description

In the history of the Western World, the Bible has been a perpetual source of inspiration and guidance for countless Christians. However, this Bible has also left a trail of pain. It is undeniable that the Bible is not always used for good. Sometimes the Bible can seem overtly evil. Sometimes its texts are terrible.

Bishop John Shelby Spong boldly approaches those texts that have been used through history to justify the denigration or persecution of others while carrying with them the implied and imposed authority of the claim that they were the "Word of God." As he exposes and challenges what he calls the "terrible texts of the Bible", laying bare the evil done by these texts in the name of God, he also seeks to redeem these texts, hoping to recover their ultimate depth and purpose. Spong looks specifically at texts used to justify homophobia, anti-Semitism, treating women as second-class humans, corporal punishment, and environmental degradation, but he also delivers a new picture of how Christians can use the Bible today. As Spong battles against the way the Bible has been used throughout history, he provides a new framework, introducing people to a proper way to engage this holy book of the Judeo-Christian tradition. ... Read more

Amazon.com

John C. Maxwell offers lively stories about the foibles and successes of Lee Iacocca, Abraham Lincoln, Princess Diana, andElizabeth Dole in The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership. Readerscan expect a well-crafted discussion that emphasizes the core attitudesand visions of leadership. Maxwell uses the same tell-it-like-it-isapproach that he honed in the bestselling Developing the Leader Within You. For instance, when explaining "The Law of Influence," Maxwell states that "job titles don't have much valuewhen it comes to leading. True leadership cannot be awarded, appointedor assigned. It comes only from influence and that can't be mandated."Even after Princess Diana was stripped of her title, Maxwell says shewas still able to lead a global effort toward banning land minesbecause of her sophisticated ability to influence others.

If readersare looking for a step-by-step formula, Maxwell's list of "laws" willprobably seem too chatty and anecdote driven. There are no specifictips on what readers can do during the next workday to help them becomestronger leaders. On the other hand, Maxwell's background as a pastorgives him an inspirational voice and a spiritual context to leadershipthat many business and church leaders appreciate. --Gail Hudson ... Read more

Reviews (138)

Good beginning
I liked the book, but like others I was looking for more application than theory. If you can get past Maxwell's logic on how the examples explain EVERYTHING and determine how to apply the laws to your own situation you will do well to read the book. One reason his book doesn't explain how to apply the laws is because he has published numerous video tapes, audio tapes, and other books that you can buy which do explain how to apply them. In the video series on this book each of the "21 Laws" has references listed (which are published by Maxwell, imagine that)which cost hundreds of dollars. If you bought all of them they would cost almost $3000! He has a good system but it is very expensive. THe book is not meant to teach you everything, it is only a beginning. Learning leadership takes a lot of time and money if you are going to learn it from Maxwell.

If he put everything into one book it would be a VERY BIG BOOK and Maxwell wouldn't make as much money as he does from the complete series......

This book offers a background for successful leadership.
John Maxwell's hard cover is available on audio cassette. It was a pleasure to listen to it in the car on my way to work. It is filled with bits of wisdom I found very valuable to have in my thinking. The narrator has a steady, pleasant voice. He explains each of the Laws clearly and understandably one at a time, thus allowing the listener to pause at each new law to reflect.

There are many references to founders of popular businesses. I could relate to his success stories of well known companies like McDonald's or Apple Computer.

Maxwell is himself a minister of a church which he built successfully using the laws he describes. Because he is a minister, he has the ability to communicate in layman's terms. The story like manner in which the book is written allows for stress-free listening and easy learning.

I would recommend this book as an excellent supplement to any class in leadership skills or mentoring. It gives the reader a broad base to rely on when dealing with the long range goals.

The reality of leading in business
This is an excellent book of legendary leaders and management. We gain the opportunity to see the "big picture", and learn from the successes and failures of others. If you believe that we should always be surrounding ourselves with more wise and experienced people, then this book will make sense to you. I will reiterate that this is not a step-by-step, tips, tricks, or get rich tomorrow book. Whether, you are an entrepreneur or climbing the corporate ladder, this book will help with your vision and relationships in business.

On The Soap Box
Zig Ziglar has some good ideas, but the overall advice in this book doesn't offer clear tips to improve leadership skills in the short term. With elections drawing near, it reminds me of a dry, rambling political platform. Check out Rat Race Relaxer: Your Potential & The Maze of Life, it has practical every day advice on how to be the leader of your own life.

The most concise and applicable book on leadership
This book is the best book on leadership i've ever read. It seems to me that the negative reviewers of this book misunderstood this book. The book is not meant to go step by step through all 21 laws. The book is meant to tell you what the laws are of leadership, it's ur responsibility to find out how you can use these laws in your life. Honestly the laws are practical and simple and they can be implemented as soon as u understand them just by the way u speak , how much u read, how many seminars you attend and audio training material you listen to. All those things will help increase your lid of leadership but that won't happen until you know what u need to work on and this book pinpoints what a true leader is and does in the world as we know it. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Why do some people consistently inspire others to follow their lead? According to John C. Maxwell, author of 24 books and a regular speaker on the topic, it's the "character qualities" they possess. In The 21 Indispensable Qualities of a Leader, Maxwell identifies these top traits as character, charisma, commitment, communication, competence, courage, discernment, focus, generosity, initiative, listening, passion, positive attitude, problem-solving, relationships, responsibility, security, self-discipline, servanthood, teachability, and vision--and then defines them in ways that readers can absorb and utilize. Each is covered in a separate chapter opening with a high-concept definition and continuing with relevant anecdotes, details on its meaning, suggestions for further reflection, and exercises for improvement. For example, in the section on vision ("You can seize only what you can see"), Maxwell describes how Walt Disney initially developed the theme-park concept after accompanying his daughters to a fun-filled but rather shabby amusement park. He then analyzes how Disney's resultant projects drew on his personal history while meeting other's needs, and explains how readers must "listen to several voices" to develop successful foresight in a similar way. Finally, Maxwell suggests methods to articulate these visions and measure their implementation. --Howard Rothman ... Read more

Reviews (45)

leadership simplified
Written to complement The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership, this book will help you identify and develop the personal qualities you need to become a more effective leader.

Maxwell does an excellent job of getting to the heart of each quality in a few short pages. He starts with two relevant quotations to start you thinking. He then gives you a short real-life example of that particular quality in action.

He breaks each principle down into specific applications, gives you a brief period where you can assess your own effectiveness, offers you concrete ways to improve yourself, and wraps each chapter up with a profound thought that will stay with you long after you have closed the cover.

What you get out of this book depends on how you read it. This is a very simple read, and you may be tempted to race through it and miss some key points. Maxwell rightly suggests that you walk through each quality methodically, giving it the attention that it warrants based on your current level of competence.

While the material warrants five stars, some spelling mistakes and the author's use of his own quotes dropped it down a notch for me. Otherwise, an excellent handbook for improving your personal leadership qualities.

Larry Hehn, Author of Get the Prize: Nine Keys for a Life of Victory

MAXWELL HAS A WINNING COMBINATION!
Of all the books available on leadership, I have found this to be one of the best, and leadership is part of what I teach through my business management courses. This is by no means one of the lengthiest books or most in-depth books, but it says more in 157 pages than others say in 400 pages. The easy-flowing writing style creates an enjoyable reading experience which does not take an extensive amount of thought or time to comprehend. The end result is an accomplished, basic book served in a professional style.

The author uses these twenty-one qualities for the basis of successful leadership: character, charisma, commitment, communication, competence, courage, discernment, focus, generosity, initiative, listening, passion, attitude, problem-solving, relationship, responsibility, security, self-discipline, servanthood, teachability and vision. What a sensational, winning combination! Each of these twenty-one components is discussed separately. While all of these elements are critical for strong leadership, if I had to narrow the scope down to five areas of particular benefit, it would be the ones on character, competence, listening, generosity and self-discipline. I particularly liked Maxwell's straight-forward approach and positive attitude exhibited throughout the book. One other book that rated at the top of my list, and one I would also highly recommend, is a favourite, all-time classic, "How to Win Friends and Influence People" by Dale Carnegie.

Spot on!
This is one of the best books on leadership I have read. It gives specific examples and motivational thoughts as to what it takes to live the life of a leader.

The book is an easy read and can be used as part of a 21 day/week/month program to apply the morsals and maxims of leadership Maxwell provides.

Now that my copy is all marked up, I can't wait to share it with my employees!

Qualities Every Leader Needs to Know and Apply
I genuinely like this book because it causes the reader to BE the qualities of a leader. It addressed character, charisma, commitment, communication, competence, courage, discernment, focus, generosity, initiative, listening, passion, positive attitude, problem solving, relationships, responsibility, security, self discipline, servanthood - to get ahead put others first, teachability - keep leading - keep learning, and vision.

This book will show you that every leader is a leader first to themselves, by integrating the above qualities into our consciousness, and walking our talk with others, and especially within our own selves.

I recommend that the reader seeks to BE these qualities, and to integrate them into a positively focused life - from the inside out.

This book is a wonderful contribution to embrace the highest qualities of genuine leadership, sans the ego's need to try to get others to follow you, but simply to be joyously immersed in BEING you.

Highly recommended to bring out the leader in you.
Barbara Rose, author of 'If God Was Like Man: A Message from God to All of Humanity' and "Individual Power: Reclaiming Your Core, Your Truth, and Your Life'

Foundational Leadership Information
Dr. John Maxwell offers clearly defined and timely advice for leaders. This resource is based on ethical leadership and other foundational truths. You may refer to this motivational and inspiring resource numerous times in your career.

Kenneth McGhee - Author
Eleven Leadership Tips For Supervisors ... Read more

Amazon.com

The spiritual premise in The Pupose-Driven Life is that there are no accidents---God planned everything and everyone. Therefore, every human has a divine purpose, according to God's master plan. Like a twist on John F. Kennedy's famous inaugural address, this book could be summed up like this: "So my fellow Christians, ask not what God can do for your life plan, ask what your life can do for God's plan." Those who are looking for advice on finding one's calling through career choice, creative expression, or any form of self-discovery should go elsewhere. This is not about self-exploration; it is about purposeful devotion to a Christian God. The book is set up to be a 40-day immersion plan, recognizing that the Bible favors the number 40 as a "spiritually significant time," according to author Rick Warren, the founding pastor of Saddleback Church in Lake Forest, California, touted as one of the nation largest congregations. Warren's hope is that readers will "interact" with the 40 chapters, reading them one day at a time, with extensive underlining and writing in the margins. As an inspirational manifesto for creating a more worshipful, church-driven life, this book delivers. Every page is laden with references to scripture or dogma. But it does not do much to address the challenges of modern Christian living, with its competing material, professional, and financial distractions.Nonetheless, this is probably an excellent resource for devout Christians who crave a jumpstart back to worshipfulness. --Gail Hudson ... Read more

Reviews (548)

Excellent Supplement to the Bible for Direction and Purpose!
Rick Warrren's new book is an excellent read for the person who desperately seeks direction and purpose for life. At the outset, Warren challenges us to believe that we were created for a far greater purpose than just the pursuit of happiness.

The text is designed to be a 40-day ( a significant number in the Bible) devotion covering a particular topic and with a relevant Bible verse. Each chapter is around 10 pages and covers five major purposes: 1) You were planned for God's pleasure, 2) You were formed for God's family, 3) You were created to become like Christ, 4) You were shaped for serving God, and 5) You were made for a mission.

Warren's purpose is to move the reader from a realization of being loved by God to challenging the reader to express gratitude by loving God and serving others in Jesus' name.

Some of the more compelling topics covered were: developing a friendship with God (yes indeed, God wants to be your Friend!), finding a church and fellowship to belong to, dealing successfully with temptation, understanding how God shaped you, thinking like a servant, balancing your life, and living to please God and not man.

"Purpose Driven Life" is helpful in that it validates what the Bible already said thousands of years ago. I am now in the process of writing what I believe to be God's purpose in my life. From now on, Lord willing, I will read this book starting January 1 of every year while expecting to learn new insights after each read.

All in all, the book is highly recommended and is an excellent supplement to the Bible. Unbelievers will also be challenged to think deeply and critically about why they were created and what their purpose in life is!

Understanding what the fuss is all about....
I have bought five hardcover copies, plus the PocketPC version (for my daily reading). And I will probably pick up more copies.

This book helps to focus your perspective on what really counts:

Day 3: What Drives Your Life?
This chapter sets the tone for the book and should provide the reader with enough information on what the remaining 37 days will hold, such as purpose giving meaning to your life, simpilifying your life, focusing your life, motivating your life, and preparing you for eternity

Day 5: Seeing Life from God's View
Talks of Life on Earth from God's perspective as a test, a trust and a temporary assignment.

For me, the mundane activities of everyday life, that you would not give a second thought, now take on a new light. The simple act of coming to a complete stop at a stop sign now holds greater meaning and insight to my character.

Day 25: Transformed by Trouble
Bring out that everything that happens to a child of God is Father-filtered, and he intends to use it for good even when Satan and others mean it for bad.

For me, this has been a mind-blower to understand that God has actually orchestrated life events that will strengthen my character, not tear it down.

Day 26: Growing through Temptation
For me, seeing temptation as an opportunity for growth in character was freeing. I have always viewed temptation as a deficiency in character, but now I view the decision made at this point to be the true indicator. People with a good moral compass will be tempted, but they resolve it in a manner that will be strengthen their character.

Day 40: The book ends with an encouragement to create a life purpose statement. How working through a purposes statement can really help align your priorities to reach what really matters to you the most--your purpose or, as others have put it, the meaning of life.

The books make strong defense for not focusing on the rat race, but taking inventory of your life to find out what really will matter at the end of your life here on earth in order to gain the fulfillment of a life well-lived.

I hope this review helps to give light to what all the fuss is about...

Unusual
I usually run screaming from the room when self-help, religious, or "inspirational" reads are recommended by a friend. Usually I'm right. But in this case, and a few others, I was wrong. The Purpose Driven Life may not be the best book ever written, but it is full of some great ideas and elements that get the wheels turning. Certainly it's worth the price of admission. While it's not one of those fiction books that are inspirational, books like "The Five People you Meet in Heaven" or "The Bark of the Dogwood," it is nevertheless a good read and I have to also recommend it. Just don't run screaming from the room on me.

Powerful
I think the reason that some people have given this book 1 stars is because it takes discipline; it takes discipline to pull away from the tv set or the pc and read a good book like The Purpose Driven life. It take discipline to design a life of purpose. It take discipline to practice God's word as advocated by Rick Warren.

So I guess 1 star reviewers just lack discipline---too bad for them.

Very Helpful
I love this book. I am a Christian, but this book has helped me delve a little deeper into what God means for my purpose to be in my life and road to a closer relationship with God. I found that chapter 2 so far is one of my favorites. It does help to have a friend reading the book with you so you can discuss some of the questions at the end of each chapter, also just questions and thoughts in general from what you have read. This book also helps those who are looking for a different way to do a daily devotional to God.
Just a suggestion: I went to the back of the book to find what scriptures the footnotes were refering to. I wrote next to eacg each number the book, chapter and verse it was referring to. It made it alot quicker to go through the chapters that way. Instead of focusing on what Bible Warren took the scritures from I just used my King James version. Also in the back are further questions for you to think about regarding each chapter.
I highly recommend this book to Christians who are looking for a more structured way of finding out not only what God's purpose is for them in this life, but a bit more about themselves. This book isn't just a one time read, it is a good book to reread. It is also a good book to give to the Christian friend or family member that is trying to find their path and their personal journey on their walk with God.
Take your time reading and enjoying this book. It doesn't have to be read in 40 days. ... Read more

Book Description

Paulo Coelho's enchanting novel has inspired a devoted following around the world, and this tenth anniversary edition, with a new introduction from the author, will only increase that following. This story, dazzling in its powerful simplicity and inspiring wisdom, is about an Andalusian shepherd boy named Santiago who travels from his homeland in Spain to the Egyptian desert in search of a treasure buried in the Pyramids. Along the way he meets a Gypsy woman, a man who calls himself king, and an alchemist, all of whom point Santiago in the direction of his quest. No one knows what the treasure is, or if Santiago will be able to surmount the obstacles along the way. But what starts out as a journey to find worldly goods turns into a discovery of the treasures found within. Lush, evocative, and deeply humane, the story of Santiago is an eternal testament to the transforming power of our dreams and the importance of listening to our hearts.

Reviews (604)

Looking to follow your dream?
If you are looking to follow your heart in a chosen path or seeking the truth then this book is for you. The book contains great insights and spiritual awareness but is written in a very easy to read style.

I would strongly recommend that before you read this book to follow the principles listed in the Fit for Life books by Harvey and Marilyn Diamond. This cleansing of the body will take several months but it is worth it, as then you can experience the insights and spiritual guidance for yourself.

Another book I would recommend following the detoxification process is The Kingdom of God is Within You by Leo Tolstoy.

Good luck and God bless.

Oprah, please!!!!
It it high time Oprah picked a Paulo Coelho. It is so much like the pseudo intelectualism she likes. This is highly recommended for whose have a lot of time to waste. I don't get why people read it with so many good choices to read instead... that's the ugly truth.

Herman Hesse Wannabe
If nothing else, The Alchemist provided stimulation for me to search out more authentic sources on the topics it endeavored to attack (Buddhist philosophy, Arabian desert lifestyle, etc). And because it WAS a source of stimulation, and because I could not allow myself to group it with the 1-starred Stephen King or Danielle Steele 'novels', I give Coelho 2 stars for his effort.

Basically, this is a simple story of a man on a journey through Arabian deserts; on his way he meets mystics, women, takes up odd jobs in glass blowing, caring for sheep, and such soul searching enterprises. Suppossedly by the end of his adventurous journey (which leads him to a "treasure") he 'learns'/attains the meaning of life.

I do believe Coelho was a little theologically confused at the time he wrote this story. His main messages are:
"Follow your heart", and "Learn the Language of The World"; but see, Coehlo and his main character are Christians; the boy travels through a (mainly) Muslim land, and though he ends up at the Egyptian pyramids, the preachings seem to be quite "eastern" in take (buddha comes to mind). But of course, the whole POINT of Eastern philosophies is that they cannot be described in words (Coelho constantly preaches about how things cannot be told, they must be experienced).

For all that, Coelho does a lotta telling.

The language is quite simple, which can be beautiful (read: Herman Hesse); however it comes off as quite redundant and sermonic. Every other sentence contains at least one reference to either "The Soul of the World", or "The Personal Legend", or "Follow Your Heart" with a big fat capital H. By the end of the novel I am skimming most passages.

The characters are flat (I didn't really "feel" them, what they were going through, and there was no character development), and the storyline resembled that of a children's folktale (I like folktales).

Overall, it was a worthwhile read given that it only took a couple hours, presented some interesting ideas (albeit, without illustrating any of them satisfactorily), and removed me to the Spanish countryside/Arabian desert for a bit (I am a sucker for folktales, and if this book is nothing else, it would make a BEAUTIFUL illustrated children's book-- I like that).

NOTE TO ALL Reviewer-Reviewers: Please consider rating the reviews as helpful if they contain pertinent information on the item under discussion, not if you agree with what the reviewer has to say. I've noticed unhelpful one-liners get "helpful" votes (when the reviews were positive), and other, more full/explained (but more negative) reviews get NO helpful votes -- this IS NOT A VOTE on how much you agree with the other reader! Be FAIR :o)

Enjoyable yet inspiring
I really enjoyed this book. It didn't bog me down with a lot of details, it told a simple story, with a message. Kind of reminded me of myself and the journey called life that I go through. I highly recommend this book.

"The fear of suffering is worse than the suffering itself"
THE ALCHEMIST is the story of a young Andalusian shepherd who pursues his dream to travel to Egypt where he hopes to find a treasure.

Santiago spent two years at a seminary where he received an education. He left after he decided not to become a priest. He told his parents that he wanted to travel, and his father told him that poor people where not able to travel, unless they were shepherds. So, Santiago became a shepherd and moved his flock of sheep all over Spain. He learned a great deal from his sheep, but he made sure to keep reading and he always carried a book with him.

He encounters many people on his journeys, including a king, a gypsy and a true alchemist. The alchemist tells Santiago to "tell his heart that the fear of suffering is worse than the suffering itself, and that no heart has ever suffered when it goes in search of its dreams, because every second of the search is a second encounter with God and with eternity." In the desert he learns to see with both his eyes and his heart, he also meets Fatima and falls in love.

This book is simply written, but I can already tell that certain parts of the story will always remain in my mind. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl is among the most influential works of psychiatric literature since Freud. The book begins with a lengthy, austere, and deeply moving personal essay about Frankl's imprisonment in Auschwitz and other concentration camps for five years, and his struggle during this time to find reasons to live. The second part of the book, called "Logotherapy in a Nutshell," describes the psychotherapeutic method that Frankl pioneered as a result of his experiences in the concentration camps. Freud believed that sexual instincts and urges were the driving force of humanity's life; Frankl, by contrast, believes that man's deepest desire is to search for meaning and purpose. Frankl's logotherapy, therefore, is much more compatible with Western religions than Freudian psychotherapy. This is a fascinating, sophisticated, and very human book. At times, Frankl's personal and professional discourses merge into a style of tremendous power. "Our generation is realistic, for we have come to know man as he really is," Frankl writes. "After all, man is that being who invented the gas chambers of Auschwitz; however, he is also that being who entered those gas chambers upright, with the Lord's Prayer or the Shema Yisrael on his lips." ... Read more

Reviews (174)

A Book to Provoke, What is Your Life's Meaning?
I wish I read this 20 years ago, it would have created a whole new perspective on my life. I won't repeat what many of the other fine reviewers have mentioned, but will add the following:

According to Frankl, man's search for meaning is his primary motivation for life, not a secondary rationalization.

Existential Vacuum, in today's Modern Society, we all have basic food, and shelter, we all can survive (thank goodness we don't have to endure what Frankl had to), we are all comfortable in our existence, and yet this comfort creates boredom, and therefore, our search for meaning is even more compounded. Thus is what Frankl refers to as existential vacuum, we exist today day to day, but do so in a vacuum of existence, until we know our meaning.

Man should not ask what is the meaning of life, but rather BE asked. In response, man must answer in his responsible, to whom is he responsible to, to what, to whom?

True meaning is discovered in the world, not within man himself. Seek out your experiences, the meaning is out there in the world, not within yourself.

You cannot avoid untentional suffering, but you can change your attitude towards it, to give suffering a meaning to you.

Live your life as though you were living it the second time. View life as a series of movie frames, the ending and meaning may not be apparent until the very end of the movie, and yet, each of the hundreds of individual frames has meaning within the context of the whole movie.

View your life from your funeral, looking back at your life experiences, what have you accomplished? what would you have wanted to accomplish but didn't? what were the happy moments? what were the sad? what would you do again, and what you wouldn't?

A must read for anyone searching for a deeper meaning in life. The book won't give you the meaning, only you can, but it will certainly help you get started.

POWERFUL AND COMPELLING!
I look with awe and reverence at those who have survived Auschwitz and similar death camps and am amazed beyond belief at how they managed to survive not only physically, but emotionally. I do not believe any amount of psychology could fully prepare one for the horrors inflicted on the survivors of such attrocities. Both my parents fought for their country overseas during the World War II and I heard, first hand, of stories that touch, horrify and will remain with me for a lifetime.

Dr. Frankl developed an approach to psychotherapy known as, logotherapy. At the core of his theory is the belief that man's motivational force is reaching for meaning. While this book is not one that could be described as enjoyable reading, there is something about the author's experiences that will remain with us long after the book has concluded. Frankl gives meaning to life, despite life's suffering, and in a thought-provoking manner leaves a lasting impact on the reader that could well change the path of direction you choose to follow and how you continue to live your life.

All have a unique meaning to life to personally discover!
After years of hearing others praise this book, I finally read it for myself, and found it is worth reading! Dr. Victor Frankl, an author-psychiatrist, experienced first-hand the horrible atrocities that were forced upon the Jews in Nazi Concentration Camps, and lived to tell about it. He shares the truths he learned as a prisoner, including man's search for meaning in life, and his ability to survive extreme physical and emotional hardships, despite the odds. In the process he developed a new approach to psychotherapy, known as "logotherapy." At the root of the theory is the value of helping others find their unique purpose or mission in life.

What was the key to the survival in the Nazi death camps? It wasn't survival of the fittest in the traditional sense of those who were the most physically robust of the human species. Rather it tended to be those individuals, described below, who found inner survival strength as follows:

(1.) Those who had a meaning in life, a sense of purpose, or intent to accomplish a goal. It was Dr. Frankl's desire to survive the death camps so that he could write and publish his experiences and truths learned through his suffering.

(2.) Those who had a spiritual belief in God and a faith that there was a divine plan for them. They believed God would help them through their difficulties. Dr. Frankl said: "In spite of all the enforced physical and mental primitiveness of the life in a concentration camp, it was possible for spiritual life to deepen."

(3.) Those who had an intellectual life to fall back on (in their thoughts) during the monotonous, strenuous, and most painful times of endurance. He states: "Sensitive people who were used to a rich intellectual life may have suffered much pain... but the damage to their inner selves was less. They were able to retreat from their terrible surroundings to a life of inner riches and spiritual freedom." This was something their oppressors were not able to take away from them.

(4.) Those who held on to the cherished bonds of loved ones. Dr. Frankl often found strength by carrying on imagined conversations with his beloved wife who had been taken to another death camp. His ability to communicate his love for her in his thoughts, and receive back her love, gave him the incentive to hold on to life during the toughtest of times. Unfortunately his wife was not able to survive, but he didn't know this at the time. (Perhaps it was her Spirit he was communicating with afterall.)

I was impressed with the description Dr. Frankl gave of a few of the prisoners, who despite being in a starving and sickly state, managed to go around offering aid and moral encouragement to others. Such individuals often gave of their meager piece of daily bread to keep another fellow prisoner alive. Such selfless service in the face of death, was truly admirable.

In the second half of Dr. Frankl's book he distinguishes the difference between his theory of logotherapy and that of traditional approaches to physcho-analysis. At the core of his theory is the challenge to help individuals discover for themselves their reason for being, even a worthwhile goal. He quotes Nietzche who said: "He who has a why to live for can bear almost any how." Dr. Frankl says: "The meaning of life always changes, but it never ceases to be." This book can be a great resource for readers to evaluate their own purpose in life, and perhaps in the process choose a path that is worthwhile not only to them but that will benefit others as well.

Both touching and helpful!
This book was touching to the point that it was painful to read at times. Yet, the overall message of this book is wonderfully exhilarating. Whatever meaning you find in your life is your life. If that meaning gives you hope, you will have hope. If that meaning gives you despair, you will find despair. This is a fantastic piece of existential work! The whole idea in this book reminds me a bit of the concept of the self-system in Toru Sato's genius book "The Ever-Transcending Spirit". Now "The Ever-Transcending Spirit" is a much newer book but it is another truly excellent book that takes these things one step further by integrating these ideas with the psychology of relationships as well as transpersonal experiences. I recommend this Frankl and Sato's book very very much! They are both outstanding!

A monumental work of human courage
This book would be instrumental to those who wish to understand the greater purpose behind their suffering. The author describes his enduring many horrific experiences of the Holocaust while discovering a greater meaning in these experiences.

Viktor Frankl believes there is a deeper meaning behind the suffering many continue to experience. He also feels that it's one's personal challenge to discover the purpose behind the pain they feel. While being non-judgmental about human suffering, the author sees our pain as a source of strength rather than as a sign of weakness.

This book is ideal for those who are seeking the greater meaning in their suffering. While much of his story takes place during the Holocaust, the lessons are universal to anyone who has ever experienced great difficulty. ... Read more

Book Description

Be careful. This book is dangerous. It explores with startling freshness the most important question you could ever ask, and offers with breathtaking courage the most extraordinary answer you could ever imagine.

That answer is so theologically revolutionary and so spiritually empowering that it could change the course of human history. If embraced, it most certainly will change your life.

There are people and institutions in the world, long in place and long in power, that want neither of these outcomes to occur. They would rather that you put this book down right now.

It's up to you. ... Read more

Reviews (84)

Great and insightful!
This book gives us many things to think about.Don't put it down until you read the very last word.Some ideas may seem controversial at first but upon reflection they really make sense.
Blessed be on your journey to enlightenment and oneness with God.

What God Wants
This book merits at least four stars simply because of its content.Any piece of work that puts forth this type of message is an admirable one, in my opinion.That being said, there are some inherent aspects of this work that are bothersome.

First and foremost is the overall tone of the writing.Again, the message is great, but NDW's writing style comes off as borderline overbearing, self-important, and narcissistic.The proclamation of it being one of the most "dangerous" books ever written is self-aggrandizing.Let's be honest, It was dangerous for Jesus, The Christ to put forth this message - to a world that was not ready to hear it - and was crucified for it.It certainly is not dangerous for NDW, who I'm sure will profit enormously (as is his divine right to - and good for him). His ideas of a "New Spirituality" are nothing new at all.The idea that God is a singular, divine, energy that is love, and that each of us is made up of that same energy - in effect that each of us is God, has been taught for as long as there have been people willing to listen.Unfortunately the message has been diluted and changed through centuries of mankind's interest in power and control over each other.

Another bothersome aspect of this book is the author's failure to give any credit whatsoever to Ernest Holmes and his Science of Mind teachings.The content of NDW's book and Mr. Holmes philosophy/spiritual teachings are essentially identical, though Mr. Holmes was lecturing about this almost one hundred years ago.There's nothing wrong with having the same opinion, but I would find it hard to believe that NDW was not somewhat influenced by Mr. Holmes (especially since he was interviewed by Science of Mind Magazine).

This - I admit - is like debating over Jesus or Buddha, however.The important thing is the message, and with that said, "What God Wants" is another important work in history reminding us that we are all in this together and that we should treat ourselves and each another with love, compassion, and respect.

The begining
Thiugh this is the latest of Walsch's books in the CWG series, it should be read first as it provides a solid foundation for all the rest of the wonderful, truth revealing boods in the CWG series.

Not an end, it's a beginning!
With all this hype about end of days. All the doomsay and conjecture, judgement and condemnation I thank God for writers such as NDW. Who said that God stops talking to us or only through people (usually men) thousands of years ago? Who says that superiority exists, that some races or people are better than others? Organised religions say such things.
Thank God for such organistations I say. How else would we be able to see how not to be? Without the experience of relativity or the opposite how could we use this contextual field to experience our own divinity.
These books urge us to be the change we wish to see in the world, to look around and see the beauty and perfection in all things great and small, pretty and not so pretty. Open your eyes to see God in all her glory, in the eyes of your children and loved ones, your pets and this amazing abundant and glorious realm of the relative we call earth. Lets not consider that it is over, it has just begun. We have it all here and now and thats what Neale's work shares with us. To love as a sponsoring thought, not to fear.
What God wants is brilliant, though the first to say "Mine is not the only way, merely another way". All roads lead to God, lets take a pleasant road my friends, have we not made our journey tough enough so far.
Love
Andrew

A truly "must read" -Most Relevant Message - Dare to Read It
Having read the reviews below, I can only add that, if you haven't read this author's other books, you will still be blown away by what this little book puts forth!You'll want to go back and read the others whilst going forward into a New Spirituality.

For those who have already read his earlier books, this is Dynamite as well!

It's Time.Thanks to the author for his Courage and Spirit!Bravo! ... Read more

Book Description

In this major new Bible, the foremost names in Christian spirituality and biblical scholarship, including Richard Foster, Dallas Willard, Eugene Peterson and Walter Brueggemann, come together to provide a unique study Bible that rediscovers Scripture as living and active text of spiritual formation. NRSV translation.

The Renovaré Spiritual Formation Study Bible offers a new way for discovering the full riches of the Scriptures. As bestselling author and the project's editor, Richard Foster explains, "When I first began writing about Spiritual Formation, the soul hunger in people was obvious and the resources meager. Since then, a publishing avalanche has occurred on the subject -- some helpful, some less than helpful. But there has remained a huge gap; a gap that if not filled will seriously undermine all the gains that have been made. The gap I refer to is a resource for approaching the Bible through the lens of Christian Spiritual Formation."

The Word of God is not merely a text to be mastered but a lifestyle to pursue. This unique Bible, spearheaded by bestselling authors Foster (Celebration of Discipline) and Dallas Willard (The Divine Conspiracy), integrates the spiritual disciplines into the Christian life by showing how they are central to the Bible's teachings and stories. The desperate need today is for a richer, fuller understanding of the relevance of Scripture for daily living. The Renovaré Spiritual Formation Study Bible focuses on illuminating issues of spiritual formation throughout the Scriptures, providing a unique window into how we can become more intimate with God. More substantial than a devotional Bible, yet deeper than a study Bible, the Renovare Spiritual Formation Study Bible is poised to redefine what the Bible can mean for Christian discipleship. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Few of us are natural-born leaders, according to John C.Maxwell, author of Developing the Leader Within You. Fortunatelythough, "the traits that are the raw material of leadership can beacquired," he promises. "Link them up with desire and nothing can keepyou from becoming a leader. This book will supply the leadershipprinciples. You must supply the desire." True to his words, Maxwelloffers a detailed and inspiring primer on becoming a leader. Even theTable of Contents reads like a motivational poster.

Maxwell (The 21 IndispensableQualities of a Leader), who is the founder of INJOY, aChristian-based leadership program, debunks the myth that strongleaders must have big egos and spend all their time harnessing personalpower. Instead, he elevates leadership to a spiritual act of service:"The growth and development of people is the highest calling ofleadership." Maxwell relies on real-life anecdotes, short paragraphs,charts, and numerous lists to make his wisdom accessible. As a result,his writing often seems simplistic, with a self-help tone. Nonetheless,in teaching readers how to bring out the best in themselves as well asothers, Maxwell offers a worthwhile life lesson that extends far beyondthe workplace. --Gail Hudson ... Read more

Reviews (31)

A Leader is Born!
A leader is always Born and as far as the belief goes 'Leos are Born Leaders' - However, the concept of this Book by John Maxwell is Developing a Leader within. This requires a motivation, a vision and an influence as the writer shares the principles of management through real life anecdotes, charts and graphs. A truly inspiring book that reveals wiz ways to excel and be a Leader. Interesting strips portray Leadership qualities with real life examples and sure, this becomes a quick 'glance read' chirping the zeal in to strife for successive climb. I've always recommended Management Quotes book of Pramod Batra and so is this Book on top of my Charts. Influence always make a big difference and this book implies the influential tricks to scale high to be a leader. Maxwell's techniques prove to be genuine stuff and anyways, the picked topics speak wide :

1. Influence - Defining Leadership qualities
2. Attitude - It really makes a big difference
3. Positive Change - foster integrity and self-discipline
4. Priorities - Defining goals
5. Integrity & People - Developing ties

Becoming a person of Influence is another Book of Maxwell that is thought-provoking and a Leadership technique of 'Influence' pays big dividends in longer run. A worthwhile life lesson to boost up self confidence and keep on high spirits with 'Developing the Leadership qualities' by John Maxwell. A sure fire way to adopt the techniques and surface the best in you.

An inspiring inspiration for aspiring leaders
Developing the Leader Within You was a first rate book with an outstanding amount of useful and applicable knowledge. Dr. Maxwell guides the reader through the steps they need to become a leader such as solving problems effectively, learning to appreciate people, developing the right attitude and improving your leadership abilities and various other categories. One of the aspects I found useful was small activities interspersed within the chapters. These proved to be a way to gauge your progress at developing skills and also a nice break from reading the book. One of the most useful sections, to me, was the one on developing people. Dr. Maxwell provided specific ways in which leaders can motivate people and also tactics to avoid because they can de-motivate people. One of the traps I noticed myself falling into was thinking that success was based on luck, not planning. After reading this book I now realize that I do not have to wait around for a lucky break, but I can take action to make success happen. The book was easy to read and stayed away from text book like content. Dr. Maxwell interjected numerous quotes and stories which helped to keep my interest. He chose quotes from Charlie Brown to President Eisenhower to everyday people he encountered. Not only was the content helpful, but discovering fun bits of trivia was exciting. The only fault I found with this book was that Dr. Maxwell was sometimes a little vague in his descriptions on how to address certain issues. But as I read the book and understood his message more fully, I realized that he wants the readers to figure out the solutions for themselves. He provides the framework for us to become better leaders but each of us has to chose the best way for our personal styles. If you want to enhance your leadership ability, become better at working with people, or just improve yourself in general, I highly recommend this book. You will not be disappointed.

everything you wanted to know about becoming a better leader
Whether you are an established leader or just getting started, there is something in here that will benefit you. By clearly defining leadership and its five levels, Maxwell starts you off with a strong understanding of the type of leader you can become, and how close you currently are to achieving it.

He then brings clarity to the obstacles that may be in your path and shows you how to clear them out of the way. He helps you to set your priorities, check your integrity, learn how to initiate positive change, and become a problem solver. He stresses the importance of attitude, people, vision and self-discipline. In the end, he shows you not only how to develop your own leadership ability, but how to start developing others as well.

Though sometimes choppy in its presentation, with maybe a few too many quotes and cliches, the content here is top notch. If you are a Maxwell reader, you will see repeats of this material in his other books. But then, some things are worth repeating.

Larry Hehn, author of Get the Prize: Nine Keys for a Life of Victory

Do Not Waste Your Money
This book is a bore and contains no useful information.
The book has so many quotes of others that it seems the author couldn't develop an original thought were he paid to.
Save your money or spend it on something worthwhile - this isn't.

Enlightening and enjoyable
"Developing the Leader within You" by John C. Maxwell was a very enlightening book to read. It is designed to advise you how to be a leader and where to begin. I also found the book to be a good reminder of things that I should be doing in everyday life when interacting with people. I think sometimes we need to be reminded how important it is to have a positive attitude, integrity, and get to know those with whom you interact; people skills can go a long way. Mr. Maxwell made the book enjoyable by relating the topics to situations and people that he knew.
I enjoyed the research facts of how many people with terminal illnesses were still living due to a positive attitude compared to those who have a negative attitude. It wasn't like some books that try to dictate to you. He also used a mix of Charlie Brown from the Peanuts comic strip and other well-known individuals like Abraham Lincoln to help illustrate his points.
I'm not currently a leader within my company but this gives me a place to start and to practice some of the topics mentioned before I have to. Throughout the book you notice a few topics mentioned over and over showing their importance such as influence, people, and how the leader develops before his followers. I think something else John C. Maxwell does that is great is he has exercises for you to participate in while going through the book. So you're doing more than reading you're interacting. The one thing that is going to stick in my mind is "We are responsible for our attitudes". I sometimes forget its something I do have control over. I was reading this for a class but I would recommend this book to anyone to read, not just for those in the leadership world. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Blasphemy! Heresy! Who does this man think he is, claiming to speak directly to God?! Jesus did it, Muhammad did it, the Jewish prophets did it, but none of their Gods had the sardonic wit or raw verve of Prophet Walsch's God. Neale Donald Walsch isn't claiming to be the Messiah of a new religion, just a frustrated man who sat down one day with pen in his hand and some tough questions in his heart. As he wrote his questions to God, he realized that God was answering them... directly... through Walsch's pen. The result, far from the apocalyptic predictions or cultic eccentricities you might expect, turns out to be matter-fact, in-your-face wisdom on how to get by in life while remaining true to yourself and your spirituality. ... Read more

Reviews (859)

Provoking
When I started reading CWG, I could not believe the words I was reading. It was not doubtful disbelief, but awe-inspiring disbelief. I had been questioning God's existence. Just days before I read the book I had a conversation with my mother. One of the question's I asked was why a Good God would let all these bad things happen to people and why a Good God would let punish those He created to damnation in the proverbial Hell as we have been brainwashed to believe. By page 50 of the book I was hooked. I found myself lost in the words which formed more questions in my mind which were answered in almost the next paragraph, This book confirmed what I have always felt that the God we should love is a God of Love. Not one that is judgemental, jealous and possessive. One that gave us free will and does not condemn us when we use it. I was born a Muslim with muslim beliefs and still had questions. I do not dispute Islam after reading this book, I just think that people in general should be more open minded with regard to matters of the spiritual kind. We should not judge others based on their beliefs, but accept that that is exactly that, THEIR beliefs.

I would always ask for answers but always got one that was vague and filled with religious dogma. It was because of lack of answers that I resorted to thinking that religion was personal and dictated by the one practicing it and not by someone who stands at the pulpit. How wonderful to have these feelings confirmed.

For all those negative people who claim to be True Christians, Jehovah's Witnesses, Muslims, etc etc. let me ask you this : Would the Good God you believe in really punish you to a realm of eternal fire , brimstone and torture beyond belief, see you suffer, see you cry...and all because you used your free will which He gave you. Why would He not have just made everyone sin-less ?

Neale's book is a wonder in itself. It opens up our hearts, mind and soul. But this book is not God's only vehicle. If you choose not to believe that God spoke to Neale, that's fine. You have your free will and God will not punish you for that.

What's in a Title ?
I don't care if Neale Walsch named this book "My Own Opinion". I bought this book because I heard the name over and over for months and I saw the changes in people who had read it.

If God is in all of us, which I believe he is, and God speaks to all of us on our own terms, which I believe he does....then yes, this book is a conversation between God and Neale.

It is a shame that people who rate this book a 1 or 2 follow with " I only got to page 40 or chapter 6." As for my re-view....God or blasphemy, spirituality or religious, 10 commandments or no ten commandments; I choose to take what I need and leave the rest.

I did question some points but the reason I did was because as Neale puts it "This goes against everything I have been taught. It doesn't stand up to the facts." WHO'S FACTS? WRONG ACCORDING TO WHOM ? HMMM, makes you think doesn't it?

There is no book on earth, including the bible, that people won't "pick apart". They see one sentence, idea, or paragraph and make a conclusion about the whole book.

The whole basis of the book is to get people to THINK for THEMSELVES not take Neales word for it.

We are all "called" for different reasons. Find your "strong point" or your "weak point" for that matter, in this book and make a change for you. After all, isn't that what we're all trying to do...find our place in this mess we call our world. Why people fight to keep things the same is beyond me. Take what you need and leave the rest and above all EXPECT A MIRACLE.

I hope you are knowledgeable to separate truth from untruth
I don't know what God this guy said he was hearing from, but it certainly isn't the same God I believe in. I just finished listening to Walsch's audiobook of Uncommon Dialogue. Don't make the mistake that his deepness is actually a word from God. Many of the concepts he brings up are just sublime (love, peace, joy - who would not want that). But many of his concepts also contradict the very word of God! Just to cover a few contradictions right here...

First of all, he claims that there is no heaven or hell, that we, you and I, are gods. My spirit cringed when I heard that. That couldn't be anymore wrong as the First Commandment states "Thou shalt have no other God's before me." That means there is only one true God and it is Him not us.
Walsch also says that there are no Ten Commandments. That makes me nervous this man even calls himself a Christian as this guy is making God out to be a liar.

He believes Buddha is a God, that all gods are basically the same God... He just said that there are no Gods, so he just contradicted himself AND the First Commandment.

He also goes on to say that God in you changes as you change yourself. Not in my Bible! Malachi 3:6 states that "I, the Lord, do not change" meaning that God is the one part of this crazy world that is stable and consistent. He is not moody nor does He change, rather you change as His pure and eternal love works through you and radiates out to the people in your life... people in your home, at the workplace, on the street and at the store. When God's love works through you, people can't help but notice you and they will be magnetized to your presence. Not because of you, but because of God in you working in your spirit.

My only fear is that newbie Christians take Walsch's "conversation" as the supreme truth as they would be thoroughly mislead and confused by his beliefs. Walsch is no prophet. I see right through his flowery philosophy through which he uses to appeal to a vast audience of agnostics and New Agers. It's just unfortunate that a newbie Christian will read his book or listen to his tape for the first time and soak up every word as the true word of God, and sway that Christian into his New Age/agnostic way of thinking. Now that to me is just plain scary. No offense to any devout CWG readers out there, but that is EXACTLY what the devil does. The devil is sly and deceptive. He gives you a little bit of truth and twists it around to distort it. What he says is fully distorted truth! And anything that is not the complete truth is not from God.

For those of you, though, who strongly believe that Walsh did in fact hear a word from God. I want you to know this right now... his "conversation," his "word" is like stale bread. When you have a day-to-day relationship with God it is like getting fresh-baked bread everyday. And when you pray that powerful prayer, the Lord's prayer, and get to the part "give us this day our daily bread," think of that... the daily bread is the fresh wisdom for the day you are receiving from Christ. God has something new, fresh and revitalizing for each day you are in a relationship with Him and believe me it ONLY GETS BETTER!!! You don't need to eat off someone else's plate per se. If you want God to show Himself to you, just simply ask Him right where you are with a pure believing heart that He will show Himself to you. AND if you are as truly open-minded as you say you are, you will be open to the many times He will speak to your heart and your spirit. You have to slow down to hear it as it is true, it is a still, quiet voice.

So let your true self follow you here....
http://www.joycemeyer.org/real/video/july/071404_video_hi_en.smil
http://www.joycemeyer.org/wmp/video/july/071404_video_hi_en.asx

And remember this Philippians 1:6 being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.

I distrust those people who know so well what God wants them to do because I notice it always coincides with their own desires.
--Susan B. Anthony

***God bless you Rachel for your beautiful post a few pages back. I too can relate from your side as the sinner dealing with drug addiction and exploring several routes of religion and from the side of the non-Christian who felt condemned against. I was very religious, but not Godly-spiritual in any way getting involved in the mystic realm of tarot cards, agnosticism and even New Age religion... All the while calling myself a devout Christian pretty much ever since childhood. Thankfully Jesus, a few years back, showed me what real love is, what real heart-to-heart spirituality is when I prayed for him to enter my life after many trials and tribulations and realizing what I was doing with my life was not working. I needed emergency help. So after many falls, He picked me up and with many tears dusted me off showing me that He has always been there for me waiting by my side like the gentleman He is for me to call out to Him. Thank You Jesus, I love You and I love God! Bless you both! I have completed your duty. This is for you.

Start to a Beautiful trilogy
I recently finished the 3rd book of the CWG trilogy and loved it just as much as the other two. Book 1 is obviously what hooked me. I must warn any hardcore religious fanatics that this book is NOT RELIGIOUS. The subject matter here is life and the entire book reads as a conversation with god (hence the name). I love this book mainly because it offers practical advice and knowledge for dealing with questions that philosophers can only guess at... how does the universe work? Is there heaven and hell? why is there 'evil'? ..... and on and on. If your mind is open enough and your beliefs flexible enough then this book and the 2 others in the series offer very practical and real insight into the past, present, and future of the human race...although the books also reveal that time is an illusion. So if you are ready to question everything you have learned, then start here!!

Best book I've read in ages...
Honestly, I'm only half-way through the book (its only taken me a good 2 days to read that lazily, it's that easy of a read). I came on here NOW to tell you how impactful this book has been.

Even if you do not believe the fact that Neale Donald Walsch did, in fact, have communication with God, himself, you will take from this book an almost surreal, and quite easy to understand vision of what we are here for. The text is easy enough for a 12 year old to read, but it will require much deeper thought than you have quite possibly ever had to put into reading a book EVER before.

Before I read this book, I was, and still am in fact, a very strongly based Christian man, but after reading this book, I found that my ideas and thoughts may have lead me to other possibilites within the Christian realm, such as Gnosticism. Do not be alarmed because of what I say, you need to read this book for yourself RIGHT NOW. I AM NOT KIDDING. ... Read more

Book Description

For those of us who have always been fascinated by the unexplained—or inadequately explained—secrets and mysteries of this world, Sylvia Browne now brings her great insight.

Using a combination of information from her spirit guide Francine as well as her own incredible psychic powers, Sylvia augments current scientific research to provide us with detailed explanations about seeming inexplicable concepts.

From the Great Pyramid to Stonehenge, Sylvia reveals amazing facts about some of the world’s most mysterious sites. The truth behind sacred and controversial objects such as the Shroud of Turin and the Holy Grail are brought to light; and fascinating and mystifying topics such as crop circles, the Lost Continent of Atlantis, UFOs, Easter Island, and much more are examined and clarified.

Sylvia tears away the obscure and timeworn explanations that hide the underlying truths about these fascinating subjects. ... Read more

Book Description

Miles away from the hectic city, Reed and Rebecca hike into the beautiful Northwestern woods. They're surrounded by gorgeous mountains, waterfalls, and hundreds of acres of unspoiled wilderness.

But something—or someone—begins closing in on them. Something no human has ever seen. And it's killing everyone in its path without remorse.

Best-selling author Frank Peretti has sold more than 12 million novels about angels, demons, and dragons. That was just the warm-up.

From the master of suspense and supernatural thrillers comes the season's hottest page-turner.

Be warned: this monster's got teeth.

Amazon.com

The old Quaker adage, "Let your life speak," spoke to author Parker J. Palmer when he was in his early 30s. It summoned him to a higher purpose, so he decided that henceforth he would live a nobler life. "I lined up the most elevated ideals I could find and set out to achieve them," he writes. "The results were rarely admirable, often laughable, and sometimes grotesque.... I had simply found a 'noble' way of living a life that was not my own, a life spent imitating heroes instead of listening to my heart."

Thirty years later, Palmer now understands that learning to let his life speak means "living the life that wants to live in me." It involves creating the kind of quiet, trusting conditions that allow a soul to speak its truth. It also means tuning out the noisy preconceived ideas about what a vocation should and shouldn't be so that we can better hear the call of our wild souls. There are no how-to formulas in this extremely unpretentious and well-written book, just fireside wisdom from an elder who is willing to share his mistakes and stories as he learned to live a life worth speaking about. --Gail Hudson ... Read more

Reviews (27)

Living life with purpose!
To discover the purpose and meaning in life is an aspiration that all people desire and seek. Many live a lifetime never finding their true purpose for why they were born and what their contribution towards community should be. Parker Palmer addresses this need head on. In his book Let Your Life Speak, Palmer explains that it is through listening and responding to the signs of life that we can find hope, comfort and peace. Parker uses his personal life, to tactfully illustrate the seasons of life that all experience. Parker causes the reader to explore their souls and lives to discover why we too are given our gift of life and what are we to do with it. Parker encourages this inner examination and encourages a response of reality and integrity. This little book is both practical and inspirational.

Quietly Paradoxical
Parker Palmer creates a peacful arena for understanding our own lives by sharing what he has experienced and learned from his own. I found this book to be a "quick read" on the one hand and yet I keep going back and rereading parts of it ... and then rereading the whole section.

I came away from reading this book - the first time - with a peace about my life and how I have lived it. I better understand the lessons I have been taught and more faith about the path I am following. A whole lot for a little book to accomplish.

fluffy. very, very fluffy.
my god, what an obnoxious, over-wrought, self-important heap of nonsense. this man thinks far too highly of his life story, which is low on anything truely trying and high on sentimentality. i quote:

"i love the fact that the word humus, the dacayed vegatable matter that feeds the roots of plants, comes from the same root that gives rise to the word humility. it is a blessed etymology. it helps me understand that the humiliating events of life, the events that leave 'mud on my face' or that 'makes my name mud' may create the fertile soil in which something new can grow."

well, good for you, pal. the oft-used metaphores and life stories that are not incoherent are utterly laughable in a droll, sugary way that does not lend itself to serious reading. some people may be capable of enjoying such writing and finding it truly inspiring. i am not one of those folks, and do not reccomend this book. to anyone.

Interesting if Not Useful
I found this book to be an interesting read into one man's journey toward self-discovery. He has some good insights into how one might take a different view of the world and find one's true vocation.

From my perspective, it was a bit too self-absorbed and self-engrandizing. I would recommend this book to anyone that is depressed about his or her life and needs to find a potential source of comfort. If you have a fairly good sense of self, this book may not be of great benefit.

Validating....
This book is an inspiration for those feeling "the pull"--the struggle between "what society tells me I should be doing" and "what I feel I need/was born to do". Both my husband and I could not put it down. Palmer validated our feelings of "I don't think the rat race is what life is really about..." whereby giving us the confidence to pursue major life and career changes. Read a paragraph, stop and think...and then read on.... ... Read more

Reviews (15)

An excellent investment!
Anybody who seriously studies theology and/or philosophy, especially those who are Roman Catholic, must have some knowledge of this timeless classic written by St. Thomas Aquinas.

I heartily recommend this English translation of the Summa Theologica; however, if you want to do scholarly research, it would be best to get your hands on a copy of a good Latin version. A good Latin version provides access to many nuances not adequately expressed in the English translation.

Serious and orthodox Catholics, especially, will discover the Summa Theologica to be an endless font of knowledge and wisdom.

If you are a non-specialist or a person with little background in philosophical-theology and the history of ideas, it would be wise to find a companion to guide you. For this purpose, I recommend anything on the topic written by Rev. Dr. Brian Davies, OP (Oxford University), Rev. Dr. Armand Maurer, OSA (Pontifical Institute of Mediaeval Studies), Dr. Ralph McInerny (University of Notre Dame), and/or Dr. Eleonore Stump (Saint Louis University). Be careful not to read St. Thomas blindly without guides who have truly studied his thought. These scholars will provide much needed background and prerequisite knowledge.

The Single Foremost Work of Catholic Theology in History
St. Thomas Aquinas' Summa Theologica is the premier work of Catholic theology, studied at all major Catholic universities and seminaries, as well as by theologians and philosophers of religion of all denominations. Of St. Thomas' many works, this 5-volume masterpiece presents a systematic and organic treatment of several thousand important theological questions, ranging from God, the Trinity, and the nature of Christ, to the nature and psychology of the human person and the nature and mission of the Church. St. Thomas considers creation in its natural light, as well as under the operations of grace, including discussions of morality, redemption, the sacraments, and the operation of divine providence. The scope of topics is enormous, and these few hardly do justice to the contents.

The format of this work is arranged into individual articles for easy reading of St. Thomas' answers to individual questions, but there is a continuity to the way questions are raised and answered that makes the work a unified whole -- not simply a theological manual or encyclopedia, but also a profound read from cover to cover. A leading biographer of Thomas (O'Meara) has called the Summa "a cathedral of thought," which is perhaps the best description for such a short space here.

This translation has been prepared by the Fathers of the English Dominican Province. This information is not evident in the on-line description, but it should be, since it is very important that the translation of the Latin is accurate and in conformity with modern usage. (I found out by searching the ISBN at the Library of Congress website). There are many translations of the Summa available, but not all are good. The English Dominican Father's translation is one of the best editions available, and widely recommended in scholarly circles.

While the Summa Theologica is available at li