Spirit Matters

Rating:
Summary: Spirit Matters For All of Us
Review: Spirit Matters is one of the most important books to hit the bookstores in a long time. Both profound and compelling, Spirit Matters takes a deep look at what is truly ailing our society: the absence of spirituality in politics, education, medicine, law, science and ecology. And, maybe most importantly, the book's definitions of deep spirituality--love, compassion,a sense of awe of creation,ethical responsibility and ecological sensitivity--are presented as universal, all-embracing, and practical core values, without sounding preachy or like New Age cliches. Read this book. Because, Spirit Matters!

Rating:
Summary: The Bigger Picture
Review: This is the most important book you could read this decade! It will speak to you like it has to so many others, but only if you are open to listening to its message. Lerner defines Spirit as related to the Unity of All Being, emphasizing that we (and everything around us) is an embodiment of Spirit/love/God (it means different things to different people). Fans of Daniel Quinn's _Ishmael_ series and _Beyond Civilization_ will find much to sympathize with in this wonderful book because it focuses on the bigger picture - the fundamental flaws of our current (global) culture. The message also appeals to people on all points of the political spectrum. Lerner disagrees with most "conservative" politics, even though he recognizes that conservatism appeals to people looking for a spiritual connection. However, he does not necessarily support "liberal" politics, either. He feels that progressive, Leftist politics often involve an irrational fear of integrating spirituality into the public sphere. Lastly, the book focuses on specific actions that people can take in their daily lives to ward off the cynicism that permeates our lives and to experience a spiritual rejuvenation. For instance, he emphasizes appreciating other people and our environment for being embodiments of the Unity of All Being, rather than appreciating them for their accomplishments or for what they bring to our own lives. Some people may object that Lerner has too idealistic of a view of human nature, but such an objection is unfounded. The message of the book comes from talking to actual people (from Fortune 500 execs to teachers, etc.) who have expressed a feeling of a spiritual vacuum in their lives. If you feel that current society engenders a lack of meaning in your life and the lives of those you care about, you must read this book.

Rating:
Summary: Imagine all the people...
Review: You may say, I'm a dreamer, but I'm not the only one...At least Lerner is with me! Thank you, Rabbi Lerner, you made me feel hopeful! Finally, someone who understands what's really wrong with the world, and addresses what we can do to fix it. I can understand why people are cynical of his idealism, but WE NEED VOICES LIKE THIS, If we are to understand what we are shooting for. A WORLD BASED ON LOVE AND COMPASSION IS POSSIBLE, if everyone just wakes up and gives it an honest to god try. People are afraid to try. This book addresses those fears, and makes you realize that you're not alone.