IT's a Meaningful Life: IT Just Takes Practice (Compass) - Softcover

Lozoff, Bo

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0140196242 ISBN 13: 9780140196245

Publisher: Penguin, 2001

Synopsis

Here is a universal, time-tested path for finding true meaning and joy in every aspect of our lives. Drawing on his 30 years of teaching and service, Bo Lozoff shows why compassion--not success, self-improvement, or self-esteem--is at the root of happiness. In 26 intimate, inspiring chapters--each accompanied by a specific practice--Lozoff covers themes such as developing honesty, learning humility, dealing with anger, and honoring relationships. He shows how practices such as a daily vow of kindness or a simple commitment of time with others can have a profound effect on ourselves and our world. Lozoff's stories and lessons can awaken everyone to a happier and more fulfilled life.

About this title

Review:

Like many great teachers, it is not what he says that makes Bo Lozoff so inspiring, it is how he says it. Named as one of the top 100 Spiritual Visionaries by the Utne Reader, Lozoff is a renowned lecturer and the co-founder of the Human Kindness Foundation, which sponsors the Prison-Ashram Project (originally started with Ram Dass). Having spent 35 years studying interfaith teachings, Lozoff speaks with a humble authority, drawing upon the wisdom of Buddhism as effortlessly as he quotes Saint Paul or recounts stories from Judaism. As a seeker, he knows what it takes to sustain a spiritual practice, which is why half of his book is devoted to this crucial task. Although he offers practical advice, he never falters into a superficial "how to" voice. Rather, Lozoff uses a spiritually mature narrative to demonstrate how life can be a meaningful process, instead of "a climb to the top". Essays include a practice for facing fears, mantras for everyday life, and a prayer of humility.

Where the first half of the book addresses the "Inner Journey of Communion" the second emphasises "The Outer Path Toward Community". Considering his life work, such as offering spiritual guidance to prisoners, it is not surprising that Lozoff gives equal time to living a life of service. Starting with understanding one's life calling, and moving through commitments to loved ones and the greater world, this section sings with intelligence, nudging us beyond practice and into a life worth living. --Gail Hudson

About the Author:

Bo Lozoff is a spiritual activist and co-founder of the Human Kindness Foundation, which sponsors the Prison-Ashram Project (founded twenty-five years ago with Ram Dass), a quarterly newsletter, and Kindness House (a spiritual community that is open to visitors). He holds an honorary doctorate from the Chicago Theological Seminary. He has lectured in hundreds of prisons, universities, churches, and spiritual centers around the world and his work has been featured in many national publications. He lives outside of Durham, North Carolina.

About this edition

• Publisher: Penguin
• Publication date: 2001
• ISBN 10: 0140196242
• ISBN 13: 9780140196245
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 304