Blog Archives
Book Review: The Cosmic Lens: A New Perspective for Thriving in a Disrupted World by Michiel Doorn, MSE and Dr. Birgit Viertlbock
The Cosmic Lens by Michiel Doorn and Dr. Birgit Viertlbock offers both an introduction and a practical guide to navigating life’s uncertainties with grace. The key concept of the “cosmic lens” encourages adopting a broader, more comprehensive perspective to understand and respond to challenges with clarity and ease. The authors present seven steps to help readers enter a flow state where life feels simple, joyful, and aligned—reminiscent of the carefree perspective many remember from childhood.
The book combines theoretical insights with actionable steps, supported by case studies and testimonials that show how this new perspective can lead to personal transformation. It’s a practical, inspiring read for those looking to bring more ease, joy, and wisdom into their lives, even in the face of uncertainty.
The Cosmic Lens is a powerful guide for anyone seeking clarity, joy, and flow in today’s disrupted world. With practical steps and real-world examples, it offers valuable tools for thriving in the 21st century.
Link-Love:
Michiel Doorn’s Website
Birgit Viertlböck’s Website
#TheCosmicLens
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Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the author and/or publisher through the Speakeasy blogging book review network. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Book Review: Beguiled by Beauty: Cultivating a Life of Contemplation and Compassion by Wendy Farley
In Beguiled by Beauty, Wendy Farley offers a deeply reflective exploration of how beauty, contemplation, and compassion can shape a meaningful life. While not a “how-to” book, Farley shares practical wisdom through a theology of compassion, inviting readers to slow down and cultivate a more empathetic, loving way of being. Her accessible writing makes profound theological concepts relatable, encouraging readers to see beauty as a path to spiritual transformation.
Farley’s work doesn’t offer quick solutions but invites a long-term, contemplative approach to living with greater compassion and reverence for the world. The book’s gentle tone and reflective nature make it an inspiring guide for anyone seeking to deepen their spiritual practice and connect more deeply with others.
Beguiled by Beauty is a beautiful, accessible read for anyone looking to cultivate a life of compassion and contemplation. It offers deep, reflective wisdom that will inspire readers to return to its pages again and again.
Link-Love:
Beguiled by Beauty on Bookshop
Wendy Farley’s Website
#BeguiledByBeauty
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Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the author and/or publisher through the Speakeasy blogging book review network. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Book Review: Discovering Fire: Spiritual Practices that Transform Lives by Roger Wayne Wolsey
In Discovering Fire: Spiritual Practices that Transform Lives, Roger Wayne Wolsey offers a heartfelt and deeply personal guide to spiritual growth. Drawing from his extensive experience as a spiritual director, Wolsey invites readers into his own spiritual journey, sharing personal reflections and insights that enrich the book. His openness about his experiences—navigating a diverse spiritual landscape—adds a layer of authenticity that makes the book feel both personal and relatable.
Wolsey weaves together practices from a variety of religious traditions, including Christianity, Buddhism, and earth-based spirituality, while grounding them in his own lived experience. This combination of personal history and spiritual practice gives the book a unique depth. His own transformative experiences serve as a guide, helping readers connect more deeply with the practices he shares, from contemplative prayer to mindfulness and creative expression.
What sets Discovering Fire apart is not just its variety of spiritual tools, but Wolsey’s honest and vulnerable sharing of his own struggles and growth. His reflections on faith, doubt, and transformation invite readers to see their own spiritual journeys as fluid and evolving. This makes the book both practical and deeply human, offering readers more than just a set of practices, but a story of personal awakening.
Whether you’re just beginning your spiritual journey or looking to deepen your existing practices, Discovering Fire is a powerful and compassionate guide. Wolsey’s combination of personal history, practical wisdom, and inclusive approach makes this a book you’ll want to revisit again and again, finding new insights at every turn.
Link-Love:
Discovering Fire on Quoir
Roger Wolsey’s Website
Connect with Roger for spiritual direction or to speak at your gathering
#DiscoveringFire
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Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the author and/or publisher through the Speakeasy blogging book review network. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Book Review: Real People at the Pinnacle with Irmis Popoff and the Second Basic Course at Sherborne House with J.G. Bennett: A Memoir by Roberta J. Chromey
Roberta J. Chromey’s Real People is a surprisingly engaging memoir that offers an intimate look into the Fourth Way teachings through her experiences with Irmis Popoff and J.G. Bennett’s Second Basis Course at Sherborne House. Chromey brings the personalities and spiritual insights of these influential figures to life, making complex ideas feel accessible and relatable.
Rather than a dry historical account, the memoir is full of personal anecdotes that inspire further curiosity about the Fourth Way. Chromey’s reflections prompted me to explore more deeply into this spiritual path.
An enjoyable and thought-provoking read, this memoir is a must for those interested in the Fourth Way or the teachings of J.G. Bennett. It’s both intellectually stimulating and personally inspiring. Real People is a compelling and accessible introduction to the Fourth Way, perfect for readers curious about its teachings or the lives of its practitioners.
Link-Love:
Real People on Bookshop
Real People Website
#RealPeopleBook
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Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the author and/or publisher through the Speakeasy blogging book review network. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Balance from the Bookshelf
Hello, lovely readers! Happy Independence Day! I’ve been a little under the weather and haven’t been able to get anything new up on the blog the last few days.
While I’m recovering, I wanted to pass on a few books straight from my very on bookshelf that have inspired, informed and influenced my pursuit of balance — practically, theoretically, intentionally, unintentionally.
Maybe one or two will do the same for you.
Here they are in no particular order:
- The Practice of the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence
- Celebration of Discipline by Richard Foster
- The Rest of God by Mark Buchanan
- Sacred Rhythms by Ruth Haley Barton
- Keeping the Sabbath Wholly by Marva Dawn
- Self Care by Ray Anderson
- Adrenaline and Stress by Dr. Archibald Hart
- Run with the Horses by Eugene Peterson
- Boundaries by Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend
- Wisdom Distilled from the Daily by Joan Chittister
- The Daily Light for Every Day by Anne Graham Lotz
Holistic Body Theology 