Book Description
Popular perception of Jesus Christ is that of a tempered, genteel man who walked the earth, offering nuggets of wisdom to His followers. But what we sometimes fail to recognize is that although Jesus Christ offered a message of forgiveness, He also spoke challenging, demanding words about what being a follower of Christ requires.
In contrast to the superficiality of much modern Christian teaching, Dr. John MacArthur serves up the unvarnished truth of what Christ taught and lived. In simple, compelling terms, he spells out what is required of those who would follow Him. Going beyond Jesus' life to include the crucifixion and resurrection, MacArthur shows readers that Jesus modeled the commitment and loving obedience He requires of us by making the ultimate sacrifice for humankind.
Customer Reviews:
Make Jesus Lord? Isn't He Lord Already?.......2007-07-15
To begin, I have enjoyed John MacArthur's preaching. I once used his Study Bible in the New King James Version as my "flagship" Bible. I have enjoyed nuggets from his teaching. And I also got a lot of good things out of this book. However, looking back, I do see a couple of things wrong.
First, the whole premise of this book is that the grace of God, provided on the cross, may have been free, but not cheap. He attacks so-called "prosperity preachers" and "seeker-sensitive" approaches like "The Purpose-Driven Life", equating them with those who lead people along the wide gate of destruction (Matthew 7:13-14). In fact, MacArthur's main argument is that only those who take up their crosses and follow Jesus are truly saved. This is called lordship salvation (in comparison with free grace, mocked as "easy-believeism", which teaches that the cost of our redemption from sin has been fully paid for on the cross).
While it is true that sinners should understand their need for the Savior--salvation from sins that lead them to hell--should we make the demand to "carry their cross" and follow Him? MacArthur says yes, but does salvation immediately result in discipleship? More likely than not, a few may understand. Remember, it is the "good" soil hearer who receives and understands the Word planted in his heart. Although the apostles followed Jesus for three years, they still did not understand the work of salvation until AFTER Jesus rose, ascended into heaven, and poured out the Holy Spirit on Pentecost. Only then did they understand, as the subtitle of the book goes, "the high cost and infinite joy of following Jesus".
Another question I might make is the degree of surrender required to be "saved" according to the lordship gospel. We might know about those "external sins" (adultery, sexual immorality, any addictions, etc.) that we need to repent of, but what about those that lie within (like lust, hateful and murderous thoughts, misplaced affections, etc.)? David prayed constantly to God to keep him from presumptuous sins and to cleanse him from hidden faults, and continually asked God to search his own heart for anything that kept him from God.
Also, does salvation depend on how "pure" we may make ourselves in God's sight? Aren't our own attempts at righteousness like filthy rags before Him? Lordship salvation advocates seem to tiptoe around the issue by answering that it is not a commitment that saves, but that Jesus alone saves. But you can't have it both ways: either Jesus (plus commitment) saves, or Jesus (alone) saves! If Jesus (plus commitment) is the answer, as MacArthur argues, then how much commitment is needed? And how can genuine believers know if we will fall away, since our minds cannot fathom what even tomorrow brings!
The book may also make genuine believers doubt their own salvation. While believers should examine themselves, they should do so out of pleasing their Heavenly Father. That is what David prayed (see above paragraph) in Psalms 19 and 139. He pursued God with all his heart, knowing the price he would pay, even when he sinned against God. But did he rely on his commitment to God to forgive his wickedness? No, he relied on his God and relied totally on Him--not his own commitment to God--to have his sins cleansed (see Psalms 51).
The premise MacArthur makes also comes from his own Calvinist theology. Christians for centuries after the deaths of Calvin and Arminius have argued over the role of God's sovereign grace and man's free will in his obligation to repent and believe in the gospel. I won't go into detail over this point of contention, but it seems that most of the lordship advocates are of the Calvinist persuasion. However, one thing is true: it takes a lot of grace to redeem a person's heart, and that is truly a work of God. Yet it must be a willing heart who receives Him.
In closing, I would like to make the following point: salvation is free, totally free! But discipleship, seeking after Jesus and following Him, has a cost. MacArthur makes great points, but it is obfuscated in the details.
Dr. MacArthur Speaks the Truth in Love. A Must Read!.......2007-07-01
Dr. MacArthur has authored perhaps the most important Christian polemic of our time.
Hard to Believe is a loving, yet uncompromising answer to Christianity-Lite- the "seeker-friendly gospel." The roots of this "new gospel (it should not be called gospel because gospel means "good news" and the new gospel is not good news, but rather bad as it will send you to hell)can be traced back to Robert Schuller's call for "a new reformation;" one that focuses on "self-esteem," has been propagated by the likes of Joel Osteen, Bill Hybels, Rick Warren, et. al.- a doctrine of man-centeredness and the fulfillment of "felt needs," and "self-esteem," as opposed to repentance and turning from sin to be servants/prisoners/slaves to Jesus Christ.
The most important question the book asks is how do people like Warren, Osteen, et. al. (without mentioning them by name)answer Jesus' call to discipleship "If any man follow me he will deny himself, take up his cross daily and follow me?" How to they reconcile their beliefs with the teachings of Jesus which state that if you do not "hate" your mother,brother,father, et. al. and even yourself, you cannot be His disciple? How do they explain that what Jesus taught was an offense and a stumbling block to the worshippers of Jehovah in that day. Remember--Jesus was not dealing with pagans, goths, heathens, idol-worshippers and the like. He was dealing with the establishment religon of that day that claimed Moses and Abraham as their "fathers." Jesus told THESE people that Satan was their father. How does the "Christianity-Lite" preachers, like Warren, Osteen, Robert Schuller, reconcile the teachings of the Gospels with their presentation? This book will force you to take a cold, hard, spiritual look at this.
If you are honest, you will see that what Jesus teaches in the Four Gospels is mutually exclusive with what Rick Warren, Joel Osteen, and many like them teach. There is literally no resemblance. Did not Paul say in Galatians 1:8-9 that if even an "angel from heaven" brought a teaching that was contrary to his, let him be "accursed." Paul preached/teached/and lived the crucified life of Jesus Christ, and enjoined us through 13 letters in the New Testament to dod the same. Where do Warren, et. al get that they can bypass the Bible?
Sadly, the people to whom this book is intended will never read a work like this from cover to cover. Eschewing "the Gospel according to Jesus" as one that is based on "works" and "law," because Dr. MacArthur exegetes rather forcefully (as does Jesus and the apostle James0, that "faith without works is dead," followers of Osteen, et. al. prefer a doctrine that coddles them in their sin, rather than crucifies the "old man" on the Cross with Jesus.
I have to admit that I have not read this book fully yet. Before you give me a negative rating, please allow me this explanation. I got about 75% through the book when it dawned on me; the message of this book is so important that I must take my time and go through this book, along with my Bible, page by page---and in prayer. Although I do not subscribe to the watered-down version of Christianity that is so popular, this does not preclude me from having to examine myself to see if I am in the faith.
Dr. MacArthur did not write this book to be used "against" people, but rather to point all to The Way--Jesus Christ. I am convinced he is not writing books like this to be contrary for contrary's sake, but is doing so out of a holy zeal because we are in the last, closing moments of time when the gospel will be taken from the Gentiles and given to the Jews. We are in the season of "the marriage of the Lamb as come and His wife has made herself ready...let him that is filthy be filthy still, let him that is holy be holy still, and let him that is righteous be righteous still. Even so, come quickly Lord Jesus." AMEN!
If anyone be a disciple, you must deny yourself, take up your cross and follow Him. That message has not changed in over 2000 years. This is the object lesson of this book; a call to "earnestly contend for the faith that was once delivered unto the saints," because "certain men have crept in unawares and have turned the grace of God into laciviousness."
A Look At Why True Christianity Will Never Be Popular.......2007-05-14
Christianity is great news. It tells how Jesus took care of our sin on the cross and that we can have eternal life. Isn't that wonderful? Wouldn't everyone want to receive the free gift?
In reality, on a minority will, which is the theme of this book. It states that true Christianity is really offensive, both in its original setting during the days of the apostles and in our current time.
This book is useful in helping us understand why so many reject the gospel. The one thing I disagree with is MacArthur's view of election, which is more Calvinistic than myself.
a must read.......2007-05-12
The most important book, next to scripture, that I've read to date.
The hard truth.......2007-02-13
Wonderful book...we are called to stand firm in a God-centered faith in the midst of a self-centered world.
Product Description
A book that claims with such clarity that 'physical' reality is merely an illusion that only exists in our brain. Fantastic? Sure it is. But David Icke's idea, presented in a way that everyone can understand, is a life-changing exposure of both the illusion we believe to be 'real' and the way this illusion is generated and manipulated to imprison us in a false reality. Icke says we 'live' in a 'holographic internet' in that our brains are connected to a central 'computer' that feeds us the same collective reality that we decode from waveforms and electrical signals into the holographic 3D 'world' that we all think we see.
Customer Reviews:
explains a lot.......2007-10-02
I remember about ten years ago my car died, I couldn't afford another right away, so, I had to take the bus for a while. In order to get to the bus stop I had to walk a 1/2 mile. It was actually kind of nice, very early in the morning I'd walk, having the streets to myself for a few minutes before the world woke up. Into the second week of my walking to the bus stop I had what some would term an epiphany, I suddenly had this very strong feeling that nothing was real, and everything was being moved ever so slightly, but not enought to be noticed. Almost like I was seeing/not seeing something that was a secret and I wasen't in on it. This completely overwhelmed me and I realized I've felt this before, usually at nite usually when I'm alone. Ever since then I've been reading a lot of different books about an alternate state, or something else controling this planet. I've never believed in evolution, or missing links. I believe that this planet never "naturally" evolved. That we are not all products of simian dna and there is so much missing time regarding the "origin of man" that scientists just piece things together to make them fit, and our "experts" really have no idea what really happened. I think there were thousands of civilizations here at different points in time and for different reasons. Very interesting to say the least. It's really not that far fetched to think that we also have reptile dna, don't human embryos look like tadpoles? Don't we have a tail bone that looks like a reptile tail? Not any more far fetched than saying we all started as simian.
Better if it provided some direction.......2007-10-01
Icke's work originally came across my radar screen while reading something written by Stuart wilde. Since I enjoy exploring new topics I bought "And The Truth Shall Set You Free" And the Truth Shall Set You Free many years ago and found it to be a very well-researched and thought-provoking work. When I read this particular book I saw many of the same things I had seen before in Icke's work, plus an even deeper metaphysical orientation. What I felt was lacking was some direction on the part of the author as to how to best approach life in this dimension despite the fact that everything is just an "illusion." Bottom line, if one accepts the title is true, then how do we go about making the most of our lives while we are here? Because whether it's an illusion or not, we are still living here in this world of form and have to deal with it.
Disappointing...........2007-08-19
I had seen David's Secrets of the Matrix DVD here on online and thats when I decided that getting his new book could be a good idea. (Just go to Google Videos and type in Secrets of the Matrix)
Anyways it started out great with a quick recap of his previous research on the illuminati and then he really hit home with me as he was describing that the universe that we live in and percieve is really just a hologram! I mean amazing stuff, I felt a complete jump in my awareness it was amazing!
However, that was the only part I liked about this book. From my perspective the rest of the chapters are pointless. It looks as though he only added them in so that he would have a full book to write. He goes into the tiniest details about religion when we all should by now have a good idea of whats going on there. I didn't buy the book to read more about religions I bought it because I wanted to know what this infinite love is all about. He also pitifully explains how this New Age movement is another illusion too. I mean don't get me wrong a lot of New Age things can seem like a lot of crap but atleast give me more than 12 pages to explain why this is illusion. He only defense is that its just a part of the Matrix. He goes into how we are all Infinite Consciousness and that we live in a Matrix world but outside of that there really is nothing else. The details about what outside the Matrix or who we are, or what we are doing here, etc just aren't there. I'm supposed to accept that we are infinite love is the only truth, everything else is illusion. It sounds a lot like my earlier years being raised on Christianity when my pastor would tell me that Jesus is the only way to heaven and that there is no other way... hmmm... does something sound similiar here???
I mean David's entire book here is based on only ONE experience he had while on a drug or weed known as DMT. (also known as ayahuasca, which is Hallucinogenic) During this experience he telepathically heres a feminine voice explain this concept that infinite love is the only truth everything thing else is illusion. Bullocks as he would say! Who was this lady? Where was David's mind/consciousness/etc during this experience? It raised more questions than answers them. It sounds all great and terrific, I am all about love but I'm not convinced that David's ideas are completely accurate.
Also if you want to hear about the reptilian agenda there is a great video of Rick Reefe doing an interview with Alex Collier. I dare anyone of you to listen to that. Its a 12 part series thats about 2 hours total. You can find it on Youtube or simply doing a google search on Alex Collier. Its probably that most amazing eye opening/awakening experience about what is really going on.
Overall, I like David and I support what he is doing but I only give him a 3/5 for this book.
Freeing........2007-05-19
A helpful reminder of the Reality of the World. I love to read things that affirm the Truth.
Lizards, Jews, Bush and the News!.......2007-04-20
If you have ever read any of David Icke's books, you may feel that the first half of this book is just a rehash of some of his other works. Edited down a bit, but not quite enough for my liking.
Like some of the other reviewers, I really have a hard time taking someone seriously that talks about lizard people! But then I turned to page 166 and lo and behold there was a picture of David standing there in the nude, with his Lizard dangling down!!! Sheesh... I'm a believer now! And on top of it I'll be having nightmares about it for the next year!
I must admit though, he did a real good job on religion bashing. And explaining to the reader why spirituality and religion just can't co-exist in peace. He not only hammered away on Judaism, Christianity, Islam and the Catholicism, he also took a good shot at the New-Agers.
Also this book explains why the Education and Health Systems are detrimental to man-kind. What is wrong with society. And how the Illuminate are behind it all.
I kept finding tid bits of information in the book that I already read in other books. The other books may have given a more in-depth look at certain subjects, but by reading this book you will avoid having to read countless other books.
If wasn't for the Lizard people and David's Balls, I would'a gave this book 4 stars!
Average customer rating:
- provides an alternative way to look at the world
- Another perspective
- This book changed my life.
- Beyond Winning and Losing
- I admire this book
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Finite and Infinite Games
James P. Carse
Manufacturer: Ballantine Books
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ASIN: 0345341848
Release Date: 1987-08-12 |
Book Description
An extraordinary book that will dramatically change the way you experience life.
Finite games are the familiar contests of everyday life, the games we play in business and politics, in the bedroom and on the battlefied -- games with winners and losers, a beginning and an end. Infinite games are more mysterious -- and ultimately more rewarding. They are unscripted and unpredictable; they are the source of true freedom.
In this elegant and compelling work, James Carse explores what these games mean, and what they can mean to you. He offers stunning new insights into the nature of property and power, of culture and community, of sexuality and self-discovery, opening the door to a world of infinite delight and possibility.
"An extraordinary little book . . . a wise and intimate companion, an elegant reminder of the real."
-- Brain/Mind Bulletin
Customer Reviews:
provides an alternative way to look at the world.......2007-09-23
Finite and Infinite Games divides what people do into two aspects, finite games and infinite games. Infinite games are the preferred approach to life. Finite games are played to win. Infinite games are played to continue play. This book made me wish I knew more about philosophy as the author is obviously providing a counterpoint to much of previous philosophy. So I think that a reader with a moderate knowledge of philosophy would benefit more from this book than I did. Still I got a lot out of this book and highly recommend it. I think this is a book that one can come back to often in one's travels through philosophy.
Another perspective.......2007-05-13
This is the second time I've owned this book; lost it in a downsizing. But it
was such a different way of looking at life, I needed to have it to refer to.
It views our behavior as a series of games; somw played to win, others for
the pleasure of continuing to play. I think such a viewpoint helps us to see
what we are doing in a more important way - perhaps the temporary and fleet-
ing versus the more satisfying over the long pull. I heartily recommend it to
those who wish to be more conscious of what they are doing, so they may be
able to distinguish between what is temporary and what lasts.
This book changed my life........2007-02-03
I ran into this book randomly while traveling. It changed my life. It's a new framework for seeing the world and although it may not speak to everyone, it is certainly written in clear prose and will give the reader a lot to ponder. I heartily recommend it for anyone on a journey, whether it be literal or metaphorical.
Beyond Winning and Losing.......2007-01-29
It is hard to imagine reading Finite and Infinite Games without having one's perspective on life dramatically altered. Carse differentiates between two modes of thinking and behaving in the world - one mode is where we strive in an essentially humourless way to `win' within the same old meaningless games without ever questioning why we are doing it, and the other mode is where we play in order to be surprised, and where `winning' and `losing' become irrelevant. Carse sees the world as being utterly engrossed in the first mode, in finite games, whereas individuals engaged in the second mode, the players of the Infinite Game, appear very much to be a minority, generally ignored and often actively oppressed by the humourless finite game players. Carse-related psychology at
Radical Uncertainty
I admire this book.......2006-08-28
Not for everyone, but, for the right kind of person it is a fantastic and very unusual little book which touches on some of the most profound issues of humanity in a way that is not at all dogmatic or didactic. It is a book that will invite many interpretations; it is not clear cut. It will make you think Big Time! And its a very short read if you're busy! I'm buying my second copy because I lent it to someone...somewhere... It will probably be my 3rd or 4th reading. Highly recommended for the right kind of person! Enjoy!
Book Description
Rolheiser points readers to the proximity of God in the seeming insignificance of life. He sheds new light on issues such as marriage and family life and the presence of God, loneliness and sexuality, language and prayer, and most of all, the all-encompassing, unconditional love of God.
Customer Reviews:
Great, makes me search for deeper meanings in my faith.......2005-04-08
I am a fan of Rolheiser's books and his weekly column. He sees scripture as a whole work, woven together as only The Master would have it. Rolheiser is able to relate various scriptural passages in a way that makes sense and relates to our everday lives.
The title, "Against an Infinite Horizon," asks us to view our lives against the infinite horizon of God's love and power. Not only does that put our earthly troubles into perspective, but it also unleashes the great power of God's love to change the world. Regardless of whether you tend to liberal, conservative or middle-of-the road, this book will challenge you to live your faith more fully and meaningfully. In one section, he states that the problem with modern Christianity is that the "liberals are not pious and the pious are not liberal." What if they were? he asks, stating that we are called by Jesus to be both pious and work for change, both in compliance with Divine will.
The only down side to this book and more generally Rolheiser's work is that he tends to be repetative. Sometimes this is to the good; you don't miss anything. Other times it's laborious.
Read it and think!.......2002-03-24
Christian books often become cliche, filled with the same old rhetoric and dogma that leaves us cold and searching; however, "Against an Infinite Horizon" is very fresh in its approach to seeing God in every moment.
I can't think of one aspect of living that Rolheiser omitted. He discusses social justice, marriage and sexuality (His assertion that sex is a sacrament still has me thinking!), death, the gender of God, and the simple act of being grateful.
I didn't always agree with his premises, but Rolheiser gives so many unique perspectives from which to view the ordinary in our lives that you will simply devour this book. He challenges the reader to reconsider our lives and how we view ourselves "against the infinite horizon" of God. There were times when, with my mouth open, I had to stop mid-paragraph and think about what he had said. Nothing revolutionary, just a fresh approach.
This is an excellent book for group discussions,or, like me, for personal growth. Read it and think!
A simple, profound book.......2000-02-25
Fr. Rolheiser has given us a wonderful gift in this compelling spiritual guide. I was especially inspired by his use of the stages of motherhood of the Virgin Mary and our own stages of faith. I loved his book "The Holy Longing" but I think I like this one even better. If you're on a spiritual journey, Catholic or otherwise, this is a real treasure.
Book Description
Would you like to discover your infinite potential for healing and moving through life’s challenges? If so,
The Power of Infinite Love & Gratitude by
Dr. Darren R. Weissman will help you view your life from a new and heightened perspective. You’ll learn to unleash your mind and body’s extraordinary capacity for healing; and you’ll begin to understand the complex language of physical symptoms, dis-ease, and stress. This work reveals the journey of your spirit and sheds a new light on one of the greatest mysteries humankind has attempted to unravel—the subconscious mind.
As you read, you’ll find that you’re learning how to transform and master your life based on these key lessons: The universe is infinite; you have free will—a choice with every experience; everything is interconnected; judgment is prohibited; the greatest power is self-love; you need to embrace life with the attitude of gratitude; you must take responsibility for your life; life has meaning; and much more.
Customer Reviews:
This is the medical frontier.......2007-06-28
Dr. Weissman's book is a breakthrough in the Medical field. He is a pioneer with his proven technique for healing. In a world where science and spirituality are rapidly finding out that they have always been intertwined, Darren takes this evolved undertsanding to the next level for his readers. He offers them every tool thay need to expand their awareness, allowing them to achieve an improved physical and mental state of being. It is a gift for those looking for the cutting edge in self-healing.
Just average!.......2007-04-26
After reading about this book from another source, I decided to purchase it. It talks about Infinite Love and Gratitude, used in healing. It does not tell specifically how to do it. This book is more like a positive thinking seminar. I ended up returning it, since it's not what I expected.
Average customer rating:
- Another piece of the puzzle
- Another Great Master Piece by Stuart Wilde
- Trust Your Feeling
- Great Read
- Good stuff
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Infinite Self
Stuart Wilde
Manufacturer: Hay House
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Binding: Paperback
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"Life Was Never Meant to Be a Struggle"
ASIN: 1561703494 |
Book Description
The simple yet powerful concepts contained in this revolutionary book will take you from the world of ego, superficiality, and illusion to the higher spirituality of your INFINITE SELF.
Customer Reviews:
Another piece of the puzzle.......2007-10-01
Over the past decade or so I have read a number of Stuart's books, and this one is by far my favorite for two reasons. First, he addresses a number of metaphysical subjects in very enertaining and informative way. Second, he brings some humor to the discussions that at times made me laugh out loud. I remember that distinctly because the first time I read it I was on an overnight flight from Chicago to Rome, and the flight attendant actually had to ask me to stop laughing so loud!
Is this a good book for someone new to the spiritual path? Probably not, because Stuart is at times pretty far out there on the "metaphysical curve." However, in my view it sure is a good title for anyone who has been walking this path for a spell, and that's why I include it as a "must read" in the recommended reading section of my own book.
Another Great Master Piece by Stuart Wilde.......2007-04-16
I absolutely love this book. The way I used it was to read one of the 33 Steps every morning and think about them and incorporate them into my day. The steps vary from not defending something, to philosophical discipline, to centering the mind. Taoism at it's finest. Highly recommended.
Trust Your Feeling.......2007-01-15
A self-help book based on taoism, spiritual, very easy to read and applicable. It made me very calm while reading it and I related to the author's views of spirituality as not something institutional and external. It offers very interesting advice on how to control your ego and live a more fulfilling life.
Great Read.......2006-04-17
This book is entertaining as well as thought provoking. It discusses our ability to transform our lives by detaching from our insane egoistic demands. It brings us back to reality which is the unitary consciousness. Wilde writes in a stimulating, humorous, and simple manner which helps in the readers ability to apply the principles discussed in the book. This is one of the 12 books I suggest in my own book due to the inspiration it has provided in my life. Highly recommended if you choose to transcend the ego and enjoy true and lasting peace and tranquility in your life.
Good stuff.......2006-04-02
Stuart Wilde is an interesting bloke. He has a knack of conveying timeless wisdom and deep spiritual truths in a very casual, conversational manner. He also describes new slants on traditional wisdom in a refreshing way. The meat of Wilde's teachings will provide great fodder for the soul for those who are ready.
Personally, I'm not convinced that Wilde has reached this particular level of spiritual advancement via a natural process of growth, i.e. via many lifetimes on earth. He seems too much of a scally, and I suspect that his psychic faculties have opened somewhat prematurely in this lifetime. Some of his suggestions and ideas are simply not wise. For example, Wilde suggests that if we work in an office then it's a good idea to turn up to the office every now and again dressed as a chicken. He claims that this would affirm the point that `I am a free spiritual being with no restrictions; I am who I am' etc.
Even though I disagree with Wilde's view that dressing as a chicken to work is a good thing, (the inner experience is what really counts, and we can achieve this regardless of what we wear, and without trying to prove a point externally), this wayward aspect of Wilde's attitude is what makes him so unique and intriguing. In this book, such views are outweighed by profound wisdom and deep spiritual truth, and overall it's a read for anyone significantly advanced along the path.
Book Description
Harold Feinstein is widely admired for his vivid and breathtaking close-up photographs of flowers. His book One Hundred Flowers (Bulfinch, 2000) sold over 20,000 copies and is in its second printing, while posters and prints of his works have become highly collectible. These delightful collections of rose and tulip images showcase the tremendous variety of these beloved and romantic flowers. Captions provide both the Latin and popular names of each variety, and an introduction by Feinstein explains his passion for photographing nature's exquisite gifts. Together, the two books make perfect companion volumes for anyone passionate about finding beauty in nature and in color photography of the highest order.
Customer Reviews:
PERFECT COMPANION TO "THE INFINITE ROSE".......2004-06-05
"In teaching photography, my basic instruction is `When your mouth drops open, click the shutter!'" - Harold Feinstein
Feinstein continues to say the tulips he photographed for this book gave him many mouth-dropping moments. Once you see them, you'll understand. Feinstein photographs the traditional shaped tulip, the fringed edged, and those resembling the shapes of roses. Each is brilliant in color and sometimes adjusted to appear even more flamboyant. I found the wildness of the Double Circus Parrot intriguing, the Green Wave Parrot daring, and the Family Cluster beautiful. Spring Green, the side view and the multi tulip shot are my absolute favorites, and the Easter tulip reminds me of an oil painting.
Tulips begin the growing season, and maybe that's why I like to think of them as a sign of renewal. Beautiful heads of color and design waving in the breeze can be inspiring. Besides impressing me as art, _The Infinite Tulip_ reminds me of spring, Easter, and gardening. When you fill that Easter or gardening basket for your parents or friends, consider including "The Infinite Tulip."
Book Description
For the first time in paperback, a spiritual classic from the author of the national bestseller Anatomy of an Illness, which detailed Cousins' recovery from a fatal illness using mind/body healing techniques. A Celebration of Life further examines the relationship of mind and body.
Amazon.com
Robert Thurman--father of Uma, outspoken critic of George Bush's administration and one of the first Westerners to bring popularize Buddhism in America--has written what is arguably his finest book. In Infinite Life he invites readers into a fascinating new way of thinking, living, and meditating that might do more to save the world than any political act known to humans. In recognizing that our lives and even our moment-to-moment choices have eternal ramifications, we are at once free from the burden of petty pursuits yet suddenly saddled with the weight of infinite responsibility. Thurman helps students understand that carrying this weight is the only way we can free ourselves and the rest of the world form suffering. Buddhists recognize this as the path of "the bodhisattva," dedicated to the well-being of all beings. In order to help readers make this quantum shift in awareness, Thurman structures his chapters around the paramitas, or transcendent virtues: wisdom, generosity, patience, contemplation, justice (usually called "discipline"), and creativity ("diligence"). He adds a seventh virtue: art—as in the "art of infinite living." Each chapter includes a lesson on a virtue as well as meditations and life choices that support personal and global transformation. "You can try out a whole new approach to life," he promises. "Then we'll explore how can put your new ideas into practice in the world, turning your thoughts into action. We'll examine the repercussions of your personal change on society and on the fragile, opalescent planet. We'll see how personal transformation is social transformation."
He delivers his promise with political and spiritual punch. Some criticize Thurman for his outspokenness against the current Bush administration. But for those who want to use their spirituality to create political change—this book is filled with excellent meditations and lifestyle suggestions for bringing about global compassion and humanity. --Gail Hudson
Book Description
One of Time magazine's 25 Most Influential People in America writes about taking responsibility for our own happiness and our actions.
Robert Thurman is America's most popular and charismatic Buddhist. His first book, Inner Revolution, is an international bestseller and his lectures sell out to thousands.
Infinite Life demonstrates that our every action has infinite consequences for ourselves and others, here and now, and after we are gone. Thurman introduces the Seven Virtues to reconstructing body and mind carefully in order to reduce the negative consequences and cultivate the positive. In his powerful, pragmatic style, Thurman delivers life-changing lessons on the virtues and emotions. He invites us to take responsibility for our actions and their consequences while we revel in the knowledge that our lives are truly infinite. Infinite Life is the ultimate guidebook to understanding our place in the universe and realizing how we can personally succeed while helping others.
Customer Reviews:
Wanted to Like It..........2007-05-20
I wanted to like this book, but Thurman made it hard for me. He's a knowledgeable and astute writer, but I found his message a bit, well, evangelical for my taste, which is ironic considering this is a book about Buddhism. His obvious and strident dislike of America and capitalism is a big turn off. I guess if you agree with this politics, or can ignore his constant, tiresome references to what's wrong with America, blah, blah, you can learn a great deal about Buddhism from this book.
It would have been nice to have a little less preaching, ego, and more teaching.
Awaken to your true reality.......2006-12-24
Robert Thurmans book Infinite Life is a wonderful introduction to the Buddhist philosophy of enlightenment. It is filled with insightful criticisms of the modern world and spiritual insights for self liberation. He opens the door to awakening to your true reality as an infinite spiritual being interconnected with all other life. He presents wonderful meditative techniques to help you overcome selfishness and delusion and open yourself up as a great light to all other beings. The book is really about living your life for the happiness of others because others happiness is really your happiness due to the inter-connection of all life. As the Buddha said, to live morally you must live your life for others. The happiness of others and not ones own petty cravings and desires should be the ultimate goal of a human being. Jesus said to love your neighbor as yourself. It's about concern for others and being mindful of how all your actions, thoughts, and deeds affect others. It's about being mindful of others suffering and working to alleviate this suffering through your love and compassion for all other beings. Most of all it's about opening up to the selfless nature of life and letting go of all attachments so as to live a life of unbounded infinite goodness.
Karmic Estate-Planning.......2006-09-08
What if everything you did actually had eternal and infinite repercussions? Of course there are some very negative possibilities, but there are infinite positive possibilities as well, and it's just a matter of training ourselves to develop the necessary virtues and characteristics (such as patience and generosity). If we are willing and able to do this, then we can cause our infinite lives to resonate with compassion for all beings.
For me, I was very encouraged by this book. It reassured me that working to develop such virtues as patience and generosity is not a vain, quixotic mission, but actually has a profound and eternal effect on our world and the larger universe. In essence, what we do actually matters. This is either horrifying or thrilling, depending on how much work you're willing to put into the outcome. Professor Thurman asks his readers to take a "leap of faith" early on in this book and imagine that our lives are not finite and limited in space and time, but that our lives and values resonate infinitely. If you're an old school "show me" materialist, this requested leap of faith may turn you off out of the gate. However, if you have experienced intimations of some value to your life beyond the weekly paycheck and the car payment, then this book may help you to frame a long-term perspective on the true value of your life.
Professor Thurman was one of the West's first Tibetan Buddhist monks, and is a prolific writer. He definitely has a political POV (so if you are an ardent advocate of gas-guzzling vehicles, for example, you may not take to his world-view), and assumes that his readers are in agreement with his "take" on modern Western consumerism as a vapid and unrewarding way of life. I happen to agree with this POV, so it wasn't hard for me to get behind his worldview. However, if you enjoy brawling and hunting woodland creatures for pleasure, you may find Professor Thurman's POV a bit too liberal for your taste.
A very inspiring book!.......2005-09-30
For folks interested in meditation, or who might need just a little boost in self-confidence, I heartily recommend this book. I've been interested in meditation and Buddhism for six years and have read many, many books on these subjects, but I've found few as inspiring as this one.
Professor Thurman combines aspects of the Tibetan Buddhist Mentor Devotion meditation centered around his seven virtues, with a kind of selfless, secular approach to daily life and what you get is an energizing take on spiritual practice. He makes it clear one doesn't have to be a Buddhist to be able to do these meditations. So, no matter what your "beliefs" are, have a look at this one! This is a great book!
Interesting!.......2005-02-27
In this work author Robert Thurman takes the reader through steps to help rid themselves of negative effects in their lives and lead them to the positive. He talks on such subjects as, Wisdom, Generosity, Patience, and explains their meaning and the effect they have on your life, which runs much deeper than you imagine. He shows the importance of releasing such emotions as anger and the damage it does to us personally.
You will be surprised to find out how much your negative emotions are only hurting yourself.
I have to say that all the principals that he offers would certainly better mankind if they were followed and we would indeed live a much more peaceful existence with one another. He challenges the reader to do a self-examination of their life, and take a good hard look at where they are going and how they are getting there.
I do not agree with some of his beliefs such as reincarnation, however I do applaud his deep conviction of the same.
The work is very readable and easy to understand and would be a great work for any Buddhist to help them in their walk and for those wishing to understand this belief . It would also be a plus for those who want to overhaul their lives and come forth a better human being
Product Description
As a Christian, you have an Advocate in heaven. You have Jesus as your representative. In Jesus Our Intercessor, Charles Capps reveals powerful insights into your role in the present-day ministry of Jesus. This fresh look at intercession will change the way you think about praying in the Spirit. You will learn: * Why praying for others is a dynamic spiritual weapon * The role of intercession in the Old Testament * Why Jesus referred to Himself as the Son of man * How to use the Word of God as the Sword of the Spirit * Why praying in the Spirit is so vital to intercession Discover in a compelling way why Jesus needs you to represent His power to your loved ones on earth. This scriptural journey will demonstrate that you are not on your own-you have Jesus as your intercessor.
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- History: Fiction or Science? (Chronology, No. 1)
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