Reviews of "Spirituality for Everyone"

The Sacramento Bee Book Review: This insightful spiritual treatise definitely is not for dummies

You can be sure you will no longer be a dummy if you finish reading "Spirituality for Dummies." This 330-page primer provides a general overview of spiritual knowledge and awareness, and offers specific spiritual exercises and principles designed to expand one's universal consciousness. Author Sharon Janis fuses mystical traditions with "new thought" to encourage individuals to see beyond mere appearances and use intuitive perceptions to comprehend the spiritual laws at work behind the outer conditions in their lives. "True spirituality is not beholden to one or the other doctrine," she writes. "Spirituality is alive in and personal to each soul. Spirituality connects you with the profoundly powerful and divine force that's present in this universe."

Chapters in the book are written with clarity, insight and humor, and cover such topics as "Spiritual Practices for Fun and Prophet," "Your Soul's Journey in This World," "From Greed to Divine Abundance" and "Practices to Empower Your Mind." The book includes a CD that features 60 minutes of Eastern and Christian songs and chants. Janis studied neurophysiology and film/video at the University of Michigan before she met Swami Muktananda in 1979 and experienced a "spiritual awakening." After nine years living a monastic life and working in an Indian ashram, she moved to"worldly" Hollywood and began editing "Hard Copy." She was an award-winning editor and producer of many television shows, including two children's programs, "The Mighty Morphin' Power Rangers" and "X-Men," before she "received an inner command to "share what you have learned," and began to write. Her first book, a spiritual memoir titled "Never To Return: A Modern Quest for Eternal Truth," was published in 1998.

If you feel empty inside (and not because it's been six hours since your last burrito), it might be time to search for the meaning of life in Spirituality for Dummies, a chunky primer by Sharon Janis (aka Kumuda—I kid you not). Despite cringe-worthy chapter titles like "Let Go and Let God" and epigraphs from Stuart Smalley and "Peace Pilgrim," it provides a comprehensive rundown of the existential questions that Eastern spirituality aims to answer. Even skeptics can gain self-knowledge from the thought and visualization exercises strewn throughout the book, which demonstrate how to take a positive view of negative experiences and let go of emotional baggage—like going to a therapist, but cheaper. Janis explains meditation, yoga, and other practices in a chipper, down-to-earth style, using everyday analogies and many an exclamation point, that won't scare off the novice.

Spirituality For Dummies is a Mecca for those who are sincerely seeking the genuine meaning and practice of spirituality. Sharon Janis fuses mystical insights drawn from the east/west approaches, resulting in a volume that opens the heart, exhilarates the mind, and inflames the soul. No matter upon which rung of the spiritual ladder you now stand, expect to be catapulted to the next level of awareness through practice of the wisdom-offerings in this scripture of Truth.

Dr. Christopher Key Chapple, Loyola Marymount University
(One of the scholar-reviewers for Spirituality For Dummies 2nd edition, who read the entire book)

“This book bridges the gap between conventional experience and the spiritual life. Spirituality for Dummies gives practical advice for entering the path of spirituality, borrowing wisdom from a host of religious, philosophical, and comedic traditions. Insightful, wise, and humorous, this book can and should be read by all, from novice to saint!"

Dr. Nathan Katz, Florida International University
(One of the scholar-reviewers for Spirituality For Dummies 2nd edition, who read the entire book)

“Wise, witty, wide-ranging -- Sharon Janis' introduction to spirituality is for everyone, dummies and wizards alike. And we are all both simultaneously dummies and wizards. I highly recommend it."

With her characteristic (and considerable) clarity, skill, humor, and insight, Sharon Janis has given all of us who seek to walk in the spirit as complete a guide as I have ever seen -- and more. Whether you read Spirituality For Dummies straight through like a textbook or bits at a time in random order, you will come away wiser and more aware of your own spiritual potential. It is a true 'soul friend.'

At first, we all may look aghast at a title like Spirituality for Dummies. We all know there is a "WordPerfect for Dummies" and an "Internet for Dummies," among a range of other titles, but Spirituality? Isn't spirituality and religion something that should be discussed in hushed tones in a Church, Mosque or Temple?

This type of thinking, however, gives away more about us than about the subject. Why should spirituality be "off limits" - even serious? Aren't we all "dummies" in a way? Haven't we all got more to learn? Many would argue that spirituality begins when we realize our ignorance, and indeed it was Socrates, that BIG dummy, who said we really "know" only when we realize how much we don't know! This is a great book for beginners and those who think they are not! It is easy to read and has the same snazzy presentation as all the "for Dummies" books - lots of information boxes, bulleted lists, humorous cartoons, quick tips, and pithy quotes, with the text presented in digestible, bite-sized chunks.

The thing that I immediately noticed about this book is its down to earth style; it has lots of humour while being respectful, and avoids the Guru tone. Janis talks with you, taking you step by step on a journey - not at you and certainly not down to you. She is obviously well read, but also has a strong "practical" tone, showing a knowledge that comes only from experience. There are lots of exercises, practical hints and advise, and a great balance between theory and practise. The nice thing about this book is that it doesn't assume you know anything and explains simply everything you need to know. (It is a bit like a computer manual for the soul. It is silly really, we all get manuals with our laptops, but none come with our soul, which is so much more complex!) The breadth of the subject range is quite impressive; while you cannot expect a full technical textbook, Janis has avoided superficiality and is able to give surprisingly solid overviews of a wide range of practises with seeming ease! From meditation to relationships, yoga to religion, it is all here.

This week I review "Spirituality For Dummies" by Sharon Janis aka Kumuda. I wouldn't have thought it was possible to put spirituality into the same instructional format that teaches us how to use computer software or mix drinks. Lucky for all of us my personal limitations do not affect the heights of human achievement to any great extent...you'll find a mountain of insights gleaned from her investigations into the spirituality of many cultures and faiths. It's really quite impressive!

In my opinion the value of this book is its ability to point out what is always present, but is usually overlooked due to our preoccupation with the externals of life. For instance, in Chapter Nine - Cultivating Spiritual Virtues - Kumuda describes the six recognizable signs of a sage, and I do think we can gain back aspects of our spiritual natures by emulating good role models. She tells us that one spiritual virtue gained leads to another, and it seems true that each separate channel we create for the expression of our higher selves makes us more willing to take another step. She approaches compassion with such karmic precision that there appears to be no other choice but to develop our power of empathy. By appealing to our material natures with physical examples Kumuda opens a door to the world of practical spirituality, and dismisses most of our pathetic excuses for not being our best every moment of the day. Oh, I forgot to mention that along with the book there is an accompanying audio CD. It provides an interesting "soundtrack" of gospel music, gregorian chanting, mantra chanting, and devotional songs. Each musical selection illustrates some subtle spiritual principle and together they add another whole dimension to this fine book.

Spirituality for Dummies is for smart souls who know that we are all really beginners when it comes to understanding spirituality. Like all Dummies books, the layout is filled with lots of information boxes, bulleted lists, humorous cartoons, quick tips, and pithy quotes (from Marcus Aurelius to George Carlin). Fortunately, author Sharon Janis put a lot of research into this informative discussion on spiritual growth. As a result, she maintains a solid voice that transcends the cluttered and sometimes superficial format. Spiritual practices, such as yoga and meditation, are briefly explained along with how to cultivate spiritual values and rise above suffering. At times she offers the kindly voice of experience: "When I'm able to give something to another person, I know it is God giving through me. Then, rather than expecting anything in return, I am grateful for having been of service." At other times she is the voice of a well-educated teacher: "Ex means 'out of,' while statis is a 'fixed condition.' This means that, in a way, the more fixed conditions you have to move out of, the more ecstatic you can become. Therefore, every trouble in your life is really a beautiful gift to be unwrapped."

This book totally blew me away! With a subtitle of "A Reference For the Rest of Us!" I was actually vain enough to think there might not be much in it for me. After all, as a confirmed 12 Stepper, I've been dealing with spirituality for years, right? Wow was I wrong! Janis, who is also known by the single name, Kumuda, has put together a volume of incredible richness and depth - all within the typical format of a Dummies book - you know, cartoons, a cheat sheet in the front, tips all along the way, icons, lists, steps, and even a CD almost locked in an envelope in the back - complete with the admonition that opening it means you've agreed to who knows what sort of licensing agreement. Turns out this format may be more applicable than anyone thought - for we are dealing with the software of being, if you will.

Of course, it's the content that counts, and Janis scores here. Starting by defining Spirituality, she gently leads the reader to finding their own way through what for many is a bewildering array of options and belief systems. For example, on page 17 she takes on The Difference between Spirituality and Religion - a subject dear to the hearts of 12 Steppers. With quotes from G. B. Shaw and the Dalai Lama, Janis manages to clarify the subject without dogma. Chapter 8 has a good overview of spiritual practices - introducing severalwithout making you feel like you have to move to the high mountains and don a robe and leave the world behind. On page 190, she tackles humility and brings both humor and sanity to the subject. In fact, Part IV is called Spiritualize Everything! She doesn't shy from difficult topics, like the difference between greed and divine abundance or how sex fits into a spiritual life. If I had to attach a single word to this book, it would probably be 'allowing.'

Janis is so gentle and non-judgmental in her approach, she makes a difficult subject seem a natural, normal and desirable part of life - just as it should be. And she does this with humor. Consider Chapter 19, called Spiritual-Sounding Lines and What They May Really Mean. The first quote there is the lofty sounding "I am detached from all my material possessions." Her translation is "This may really mean: 'I'm flat broke and don't have a penny to my name.'" The CD is amazing too - a wonderful resource that has everything fromfoot-stomping, hand clapping gospel to short sermons, to chants to Kumuda herself singing Amazing Grace in a way that literally sends chills up and down my spine and brings tears to my eyes. This is a book you will read, and experience over and over again - a book for a life-time.

Here is a book that, in all sincerity, I initially scoffed at. How could a subject so vast, meaningful and unwieldy as 'spirituality' be followed by that now-familiar suffix "for Dummies"? There is a "NetWare for Dummies," a "WordPerfect for Dummies," and an "Internet for Dummies," among other similar titles. The theme of this self-deprecating little series has, up to this point, been obvious: friendly how-to manuals for the technologically inept. But now, a "Spirituality for Dummies?" Come ON, I thought upon first hearing of this latest helpmate for dum-dums, do-do-birds and the like. Surely this would be a trite, shallow instruction book on the attainment of 'spirituality' (whatever THAT may be, vague term that it is), something suitable only for people with no GENUINE interest in spirituality, self-improvement or contemplation at all, but rather a fleeting desire to merely skim the surface of such weighty and worthy undertakings. This, I predicted, might be a good book for gift-giving but would ultimately be neither a source of enlightenment nor help to anyone, only as one of those dust-collectors that have been flipped through once and never again.

Well, I'll be, if I don't feel like a true dummy myself for having been so quick to dismiss what is in actuality a sparkling book! Having done my share of reading in this genre (that is, 'spirituality'--not 'dummies'), I can heartily say that this is among the very best, most comprehensive and enjoyable books on the rather daunting subject, and you should not be put-off by what might seem too generic a title, as I so foolishly was. This is a book that belongs on everybody's shelf, or, better yet, nightstand, no matter what their spiritual orientation, or lack thereof, may be. It is as valuable to beginners as it is to the already-'spiritualized.' One can open it to any page and come upon something worthwhile, humorous, encouraging, inspiring, familiar, or just plain educational.

It is a grand accomplishment on the part of the author, Sharon Janis, whose first book, 'Never to Return,' chronicled her own spiritual journey and years in an ashram. She doesn't just touch on things superficially, nor does she write with even the slightest hint of a guru-esque, higher-than-thou style. On the contrary, she is engaging, down-to-earth, and funny. And so the book is accessible, but never boring. Meditation, the meaning of spirituality, relationships and yoga are just a very small bit of all that is to be found in its cartoon-emblazoned pages. The chapters are well-organized--with thoughts separated into digestible, bite-sized chunks--and are peppered with quotations from such varied figures as Rumi, Shakespeare, Nietzsche, Jesus and Dolly Parton. Clearly, it is not exclusive but INclusive of all sorts of perspectives, philosophies and practices. The truth is, spirituality is personal, and different for everyone. This is a book that is extremely conducive to discovering just what unique meaning and place spirituality has for YOU. (And even if you're not looking for something that deep, it really is entertaining and fun to read, too, and did I mention it comes with a CD?) I really liked it.

You are the first spiritual author that I have connected to so holistically. It is your simplicity and truth, vibrating from the core of clarity and Love that I connect with. And I am so deeply touched by your expression through music too. You bring this radiant beauty to seekers of all levels of spiritual understanding. Wow! Thank you so much for your beloved presence. I feel very blessed for discovering you, my dear sister. -- J.L.

After years of wondering what the meaning of life was, and what my purpose here on earth is, I found this book! It helped me uncover the world of spirituality, which in turn helped me answer some of these most fundamental questions! The book is such an easy read, and the author has a brilliant sense of humor. I often reference the book over and over, for information on certain specific subjects, which is very easy to do in the "Dummies" format. It is also written to embrace all religions, non-religions, races, genders, etc. It truly is a book for everyone! I recommend this book to anyone seeking to grow spiritually, and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did (and still do)! -- C.G.

As I read your book I began understand that there were missing peices in my life. The bits began to fall into place. I reacquainted myself with a dear friend who is spiritually attuned and began reading anything I could find on spiritual awareness. I began to pray again and became radiant and happy. - C.

I'm reading "Spirituality for Dummies", and I wanted to say thank you. There are a few books that I keep on my shelf, and read over and over again, that remind me of what I know and what I don't and what I've forgotten along the way. This one just got added to the list. Thanks. Blessings on your path, and may the light within you light your way. - T.C.

I'm joseph from france. I read your book in french "sagesse et spiritualité pour les nuls". Spirituality for dummies in english. Its a master piece. I'm not a great reader, I find books so boring in general, but your book is so complete and "non religious" (no religion in particular leads your main ideas!). That book did so much, I have many problems, actually your book helped!! BLess you. - J

I just finished reading "Spirituality for Dummies" and loved it so. Up until this moment it's the most inspirational, uplifting, soul-enriching book I've seen. Thanks for your labor of love. Joy and grace always, - R.L.

Hello Sharon. I just want to let you know that I have just finished reading your book, "Spirituality For Dummies". Actually it was my first Dummy Book. However, I have read some of the books you mentioned like "Autobiography Of A Yogi", and "The Prophet" . I had studied medicine in India in the late 80's and was exposed to such works while I was there but never got into the deeper aspects. Your book is more suitable as it blends both western and eastern outlooks. I really enjoyed your humorous approach. I hope I will be able to become more spiritually evolved as I try to practice some of your practical tips. Also this is the first time I have ever written to an author of a book that I have read...Once again I would like to express my thanks to you for writing this book which gives anyone reading it a chance to discover what a wonderful experience this life can be if only we look within.Goodbye, and godbless. - J.S.G

I would just really like to say "nothing" about your book Spirituality for Dummies. If I said "something" about it, I would surely not serve it justice.... I will say "nothing" about the book because I do not want to try to describe the indescribable.... words can not describe how indesribably interesting it was to see such a book that flows with the Whatever-You-Want-To-Call-It.....But then again, all books flow with the Whatever-You-Want-To-Call-It too, but books like yours helps people realize that everything flows with the Whatever-You-Want-To-Call-It........I am now 20 still going to school and working...even though I do these things, I know they are just What-Ever-You-Want-To-Call-It......When I think of myself....I don't think, "I am happy with life" or "I am sad with my life"....I just think...."I Just AM.".....Hope to hear from you, D.

I just read Spirituality for Dummies, and I was particularly pleased with your chapters on the way one can 'meditate', 'contemplate' and come to 'union'; those things you wrote clearly from experience (chapter 7); I'm going tomorrow to make a review of your book on the Flemish Radio Broadcoast (i.e. the Dutch-speaking part of Belgium), and I'm sure I will tell about the good things you brought to the people who precisely need or are searching for what you are telling about. Up to now I've studied only christian spirituality, and made reviews of books of it.... but you opened my eyes to this other, eastern, approach, which is quite different from the western one, even if in essence they are pretty much the same. Thank you for introducing me into that other, eastern world of spirituality! Many greetings! - B.T.

I must say your writings have been a tremendous blessing and I honor your credentials. Your insight has been an inciter to my being. I am a much different person after reading your book. can now see the value of peace, love, and compassion toward our fellow Being. I am a Christian and belief strongly in our lord Jesus Christ. - R.

Dear Kumuda, Sometimes a book has just popped into my hands, as if thrust there by some unseen hands, and said, "Read me." Nevertheless, when I found myself holding "Spirituality for Dummies," by coincidence, in a bookstore one evening, I protested (to myself) that I hardly needed another book on spirituality, having at this point, a pretty good personal library on that subject. I skimmed the book for a minute, replaced it on the shelf, and left. Haunted all week, however, by the depth and insight of some of the quotes I had gleaned in a minute's skimming, I found that I couldn't wait to get back to the bookstore and have another look. I am now the delighted owner of "Spirituality for Dummies, " a book which I shall continue to mine for wisdom for some time to come. What an extraordinary work! To find all this wisdom and wit packaged in a "Dummies" format book seems so humorous -- and delightful! I found myself asking, "Who in the world is this author?" The fine print on the title page pointed me to your web site, where I found "Never to Return." I have my own copy now of "Never to Return," but I have also very much enjoyed the pictures in your on-line edition. I just wanted to say thank you for writing both of these wonderful books. They have meant a great deal to me. It has been a pleasure to get to know you through your writing. - G.

Dear Ms. Janis, I am a priest working with an ecumenical field ministries group. One of my students brought Spirituality for Dummies to my attention, and it is quite an impressive book. As I am in the process of putting together a pamphlet on spirituality for our hospital chaplains hand out, I'd like permission to quote (with appropriate acknowledgment) from your work. Can you give this to me, or do I need to write to your publisher? If there is a fee involved, I will be glad to pay it. Thank you for an excellent read and a much needed review of the Siddha Yoga perspective. Bless you, - A.B.M.

bless you for your book spiritually for dummies - you really pulled it all together for the western oriented mind- and the music -out of this world - bless you kind & loving soul. - P.S. Your book really made me laugh and I am still finding it totally uplifting. Thank you for being a "dummy." All the best in your future endeavours. I'll be looking forward to the next publication. Yours faithfully, R.M.

I keep picking up your book, and discovering and re-covering more fine gems in it. This is really a wonderful book. I also appreciate how it is lightly infused with your personality. Just enough for flavor, never an imposition. I like hanging out with your book, a few moments at a time. So, thank you. - R.P.

Hi. I'm a student at Eastern Kentucky University, and I just recently bought your book Spirituality for Dummies I just finished it today, and I thought it was very good. Wonderfully done. I am now reading Meditation for Dummies now. :) I'm going to eventually get my PhD in Religion. I especially loved the part in your book where you talked about the blessed Chocolates! I have a few plants in my room that aren't looking so good I wish they could get some kind of spiritual blessing like that! ha ha. It must be my Karma or their Karma not for sure. lol Well catch you latter and keep writing. - S.

I just wanted to tell you how much this book has meant to me. I've been going through some of the roughest times in my life and this book is getting me through it. It seems to know what I need. I just want to thank you for writing it. Bless you! D.V. Hi Sharon, Just a note to tell you that I am really enjoying your book, Spirituality for Dummies - more specifically, it's contents but not the title! (I find the title somewhat debasing - we are all God so we cannot be be dummies! I even covered the words "for dummies" on the cover and spine of the book to hide them from view!).The week before this 9-11 World Trade Center tragedy happened I had read chapters 11-13 and I know the reason I'm feeling so centered and happy is because of it. I love your book. - G.

I thoroughly enjoyed your Spirituality for Dummies book. Very well written. Thanks for all the guidance! I'm looking forward to reading your other book. It's on my list to buy. :) You're a true inspiration! I'm 20, and I live on my family farm in WI. Your garden analogy really hit home. I love how you described all the people are seeds/flowers that are planted in the field. Sharon, I'm so inspired now to start weeding, and planting more positive flowers. :) Thanks again. A new friend, - A.

I love the book and so far have purchased 6 to give away to family and friends. I laugh a lot and sometimes cry. It makes me feel wonderful. Thanks for writing spirituality it does you proud. - P.

I want to thank you for sharing your great heart and mind with the world of seekers, as well as unknowing seekers, in Spirituality for Dummies. You have provided me with the framework in which to fully appreciate where I was, and how far I have come in my sadhana. Your work is also helping me to construct a new framework for the present moment, and, the future. To read another's words which reflect one's own deepest knowing is enlightening and inspiring. With Great Love and Many Blessings to you, - G.B.

I rarely find the depth of understanding that your book reflects. You have the rare gift of expressing very complex ideas with simplicity. Please continue to bring that gift to the world as it is needed at this and all times. - T.L.

You can only imagine that I received some odd looks when checking this book from the local library. There aren't many books that I buy, but this one I'm adding to my collection as it was such a joy to read. This book was very vaulable in lifting my spiritual awareness and broadening my understanding. You wrote a fine book. My complements! - K.

Thank you setting your knowledge and experience on paper. I just began reading "Spirituality for Dummies" and it is exactly what I need. I've read several books on eastern religion/philosophy and spirituality. While I came away from most of them with my head feeling better my heart did not. Your book is serving as mold which will bind together several disjointed and fragmented concepts I have about being spiritual. Thank you, kindly. PS Since I already knew that I didn't know, am I now qualified for advanced dummyhood? - C.

Dear Ms. Janis, Your book, Spirituality for Dummies, has really changed my life. I don't want to go into a long diatribe about the road I've traveled and how far I've come spiritually, but suffice to say, with the help of your book, "I've come a long way baby!" May your journey be filled with peace and joy. - P.H.

Wow Sharon, you're book is truly wonderful - blows me away as I say in my review which just went up -starts on the right margin, down a bit, at www.powerfullyrecovered.com. What a job you did - way more than I would have guessed - a true blessing. It's one I will keep and use for a long long time, truly. And the wonderful bonus of the cd - your amazing grace is one of the best I've ever heard, and I love gospel! Blessings, - A.

Just a note to tell you I enjoyed "Spirituality for Dummies" and the CD. I've read a fair amount of spirtually oriented stuff but I found your witty, down-to-earth writing style welcoming. I especially liked the last chapter on 10 examples of seeing your life through spiritual eyes. I'm not always successful at it, but the book gave me some great insights. Thanks, - S.

I recently purchased (by coincidence) this book and have read about 1/3 of it. I've been in the AA program for 17 years. I just wanted to express my gratitude and appreciation for God bringing you into my life. I am presently reading the section on contemplative writing which I think will be most helpful to me. I think your book will affect many lives. Thank you for being a part of my life. - B.

Dear Sharon, I recently bought your book "Spirituality For Dummies" and I have quickly gone through it and highlighted in orange the parts that enlightened me the most. I intend to go back and digest the highlighted portions more thoroughly. Thank you for demystifying spiritualality and bringing it down to the human level and up to the modern age. I have visited your website and have read some of the excerpts on it. I would be interested in your autobiography. All the best from: - A.G.

Sharon, I think you have done an excellent job in writing this book " spirituality for dummies". I have not really finished reading the book but am enjoying allot your accompanying CD. I have introduced your book to my friends in Malaysia. I am a professional engineer . My business has failed with a lost of millions. Now my family has fallen apart. After reading your book, I am taking happiness as a process and regaining my confidence and seeing life as it is. Regards, - S.N.V.

Book Chapters and Sections	Play the Audio	Read the Text	Supplementary Materials
A Welcome/Initial Quick Tips
A1 What Spirituality Can Do for You
A2 Dispelling Several Myths about Spirituality
A3 Ten Places to Meditate Before and After You’re Spiritually Enlightened
A4 Dedication

Part One: Getting Acquainted with Spirituality
1 Chapter One: Finding Authentic Spirituality
1a Intro
1b Spirituality and Self-Knowledge
1c Spiritual Practices
1d Spiritual Living
1e Spiritual Wisdom
1e1 Trusting Yourself
1e2 Serve Joyfully
2 Chapter Two: Defining Spirituality
2a Intro
2b Spirituality: The Basic Idea
2b1 Opening up to a spiritual view of life
2b2 Making a best guess
2b3 Spirituality: The true wealth
2b4 Spirituality is about following your heart
2b5 Experiencing self-awareness right here and right now
2b6 Getting to know your spiritual heart
2b7 Oh, the contradictions!
2c The Difference between Spirituality and Religion
2c1 GOD: Generous Omniscient Divinity
2c2 Playing “My God is Better than Your God”
2d What Spirituality Can Do for You
2d1 Great things about being spiritual today
2d2 Not so great things about being spiritual today
3 Chapter Three: Discovering Your Own Spirit
3a Intro
3b The First Step: Knowing That You Don’t Know
3b1 Two kinds of ignorance
3b2 You are a worldview maker
3c The Truth Is Simple, but You Have to Be Ready
3d Who Are You?
3d1 Knowing thyself
3d2 Looking at your shadows
3d3 Appreciating your depths
3d4 You are the flowing water
3e Yes, But Who Are You Really?
3e1 Big Self, little self
3e2 Good news! You already are spiritual
3e3 Fanning the divine flame
3e4 Taming the donkey
3e5 Diving into the experience of pure soul
3f Moving Beyond Ego
3g Being Nothing Isn’t So Bad Either
4 Chapter Four: Exploring Your Soul’s Journey
4a Intro
4b Why Are You Here?
4b1 You’re here to evolve
4b2 Life is a School for the soul
4b3 Finding the hidden gems
4c Where Will You Go Next?
4d Befriending Death
4e Death: Period or comma?
4f Reincarnating all over again
4g A guided tour through an experience of death
5 Chapter Five: Finding Your Spiritual Path
5a Intro
5b Searching for Truth in a World of Pretense
5b1 Being a good editor
5b2 Following your intuition
5c Spirituality is Not One Path Fits All
5d Separating the Wheat from the Chaff
5e Benefiting from Teachers, Thinkers, Saints, and Sages
Part Two: Spiritual Practice Makes Perfect
6 Chapter Six: If You’re Already Spiritual, Why Practice?
6a Intro
6b Growing Through Spiritual Practices
6b1 Clarifying what you want
6b2 Applying steady effort
6c Finding What Practices are Right for You
6c1 Discovering the techniques
6c2 Letting your practices flow
6c3 Doing practices for body, mind, and spirit
6c4 Strengthening your willpower
6c5 Practicing being happy
7 Chapter Seven: Spiritually Energizing Your Body
7a Intro
7b Taking Care of Your Body Temple
7b1 Adding spiritual touches to physical activities
7b2 Exploring food choices
7b3 To indulge or not to indulge
7b4 Staying natural
7c Stretching, Exercising, and Hatha Yoga
7c1 Where hatha yoga postures come from
7c2 Remembering to rest
7d Practicing Spiritual Breathing
8 Chapter Eight: Empowering Your Mind
8a Intro
8b The Amazing Value of Your Mind
8b1 Opening up your creative mind
8b2 Change your outlook, change your life
8b3 Taking steps to refine your mind
8c Recognizing and Clearing Your Mental Clutter
8c1 Using contemplation to clear your mental clutter
8c2 Focusing your thoughts
8c3 Putting your desires in order
8d Contemplating Spiritual Teachings
8d1 Unlocking the scripture of your own life
8d2 Tapping into the power of contemplative writing
8e Meditating: Silent Mind, Holy Mind
8e1 Meditation: a natural part of life
8e2 Relaxing into meditation
9 Chapter Nine: Nourishing Your Spirit
9a Intro
9b Understanding Spiritual Communion
9c Prayer: Touching the Sacred
9c1 Connecting through prayer
9c2 Giving Blessings to Others
9c3 Be your own house of worship
9d Worshipping God in Form
9e Creating a sacred space
9f Singing to the Divine
9f1 Singing with a group
9f2 Singing and your breath
Part Three: Living a Spiritual Life
10 Chapter Ten: Cultivating Spiritual Virtues
10a Intro
10b Discovering How Spiritual Awareness Brings Virtues
10b1 Watching virtues come naturally
10b2 Recognizing the signs of a sage
10b3 Understanding how one virtue leads to another
10c Gaining the Power of Truth through Honesty
10c1 Discovering the perks of being truthful
10c2 Being honest with yourself
10d Understanding Humility
10d1 Resting in the humility of your heart
10d2 Protecting your virtues through humility
10e Wishing Everyone Well With Compassion
10e1 Increasing your power of compassion through empathy
10e2 Being compassionate in today’s world
11 Chapter Eleven: Uplifting Your Whole Life
11a Intro
11b Moving from Worldly Limitations to Spiritual Freedom
11b1 Moving beyond desires and attachments
11b2 Entering a vision of equality
11c From Work to Divine Service
11c1 Serving without personal motives
11c2 Seeing how service and success work together
11d From Forgiveness to Gratitude
11d1 Moving beyond forgiveness
11d2 Maintaining an attitude of gratitude
11e From Greed to Divine Abundance
11e1 Can you really have it all?
11e2 Living in pursuit of lasting fulfillment
11f From Relationships to Divine Love
11f1 Love, Relationships, and potential potholes
11f2 Avoiding mediocre relationships
11f3 Understanding the power of company
11f4 Finding love inside yourself
12 Chapter Twelve: Turning Troubles into Triumphs
12a Intro
12b Seeing Troubles with a Positive Eye
12b1 Rising above suffering
12b2 Finding blessings from tragedy
12c Recognizing That There Are No Mistakes
12d It’s Not Punishment but Guidance
12e Transforming Challenge into Ecstasy
12e1 Weathering the storms
12e2 This too shall pass
13 Chapter Thirteen: Finding the Deep Calling of Your Soul
13a Intro
13b Discovering your dharma
13b1 Discovering your righteous path of living
13b2 Finding your calling
13b3 Being guided from within
13b4 Following your bliss
13c Being an Artist of Life
13c1 Finding your own style
13c2 Sharing the treasures of your journey through writing
Part Four: Connecting With This Conscious Universe
14 Chapter Fourteen: The Individual Nature of Universal Creation
14a Intro
14b The Spiritual Science of Universal Creation
14b1 Stage 1 of Universal Creation
14b2 Stage 2 of Universal Creation
14b3 Stage 3 of Universal Creation
14b4 Stage 4 of Universal Creation
14b5 Stage 5 of Universal Creation
14b6 Stage 6 of Universal Creation
14b7 Stage 7 of Universal Creation
14c What is the world made of?
14c1 How this world is like a movie
14c2 Rising above illusions
14c3 Life is but a dream
14c4 Shifting into a Higher Perspective
14c5 First cause versus second cause
15 Chapter Fifteen: The Laws of Karma and Attraction
15a Intro
15b The Laws of Karma
15b1 Karma is a natural law
15b2 So, is the idea to make lots of good karma?
15b3 Cleaning up your karmas
15c The Law of Attraction
15c1 Checking out some laws
15c2 Applying the laws
15c3 You are a co-creator
15c4 Untangling the web of desires
15c5 Ask for the whole cosmos!
15d Appreciating the Power of Words
15d1 Empowering your affirmations
15d2 How affirmations affect your mind
15d3 How affirmations transform the world
15d4 The Universe is always listening
16 Chapter Sixteen:When Thy Will Be Done Becomes My Will Be Done
16a Intro
16b Spirituality and Worldly Desires
16b1 Clarifying what spirituality is by describing what it’s not
16b2 Using manifestation techniques
16b3 It’s not nice to fool Mother Nature
16b4 Are you really ready to drive this thing?
16c Clarifying Your Intentions and Goals
16c1 Weeding your desires
16c2 Asking for the highest
16c3 Accepting the inevitable
16d The Supreme Surrender
16d1 The importance of divine guidance
16d2 Understanding to whom you’re surrendering
16d3 Welcoming “Thy Will Be Done”
16d4 Understanding that everything happens for the best
16e Depending on Spirit
17 Chapter Seventeen: Liberation, Enlightenment, and the Cosmic Joke
17a Intro
17b What Enlightenment is Like
17b1 You become yourself, but more so
17b2 It’s a shift of awareness
17c Being in the Flow
17c1 Being here, now
17c2 Flowing with time
17c3 Dancing through life
17d Enjoying the Cosmic Joke
17d1 Why do you think they call it realization?
17d2 And life goes on. . .
Part Five: Extra Sections with Lists of Ten Things (not part of the audiobook)
18 Chapter Eighteen:Ten Small Things You Can Do to Uplift Your Life
18a Intro
18b Add Conscious Pauses to Your Day
18c Read Uplifting Words
18d Bless Your Day When You Wake Up
18e Play Spiritual Music to Soothe Your Spirit
18f Do Your Work with an Attitude of Service
18g Surround Yourself with Things that Evoke Positive Feelings
18h Be Friendly to the People Around You
18i Add Symbolic Contemplations to Your Actions
18j Watch Your Breath
18k Use Rituals and Affirmations to Invoke Spirit
19 Chapter Nineteen: Ten Spiritual-Sounding Linesand What They May Really Mean
20 Chapter Twenty: Ten Opportunities to See Your Life with Spiritual Eyes
20a Intro
20b When Obstacles Block Your Way
20c When You Have a Dream but Don’t Know How to Get There
20d When You’re Afraid of Losing Something or Someone
20e When You’re in Love
20f When You’re Under Ongoing Pressures
20g When You Don’t Like Your Job
20h When You’ve Experienced a Difficult Childhood
20i When You Feel Spiritually Lost
20j When Something Awful Happens
20k When Good Fortune Comes Your Way
21 Chapter Twenty-One: Ten More Commandments
21a Intro
21b Do Unto Others As You Would Have Them Do Unto You
21c Think Good Thoughts
21d Look Beyond Matter to Spirit
21e Keep Good Company
21f Turn Within for Guidance
21g Be Moderate and Balanced
21h Remember Death
21i Express Yourself Freely
21j Keep Your Word
21k Have a Good Sense of Humor
21l Never Let Your Creative Spirit be Limited by Numbers