This is an excellent book - would be great for having discussions on each section. Kornfield has brought together stories from all over the world that are so meaningful. I read an advance copy - it's not in the bookstores until November so it would make a great Christmas present for someone! Or share a story from it around a family holiday dinner. One quote that really stood out for me was from Maya Angelou. "If we lose love and respect for one another, this is how we will finally die." We need to remember this in all our interactions.

Always insightful and interesting. This title was no exception. Enjoyed the book and wish author much luck. Thanks for the advanced read

In these precarious times, it is always helpful to hear Jack Kornfield's perpetual reflections of a Buddhist life well-lived. In this compilation of stories, we hear our own fears and also our own innate strengths. We remember that all civilizations have experienced oppression, war, torture as well as enlightenment, perserverance, and compassion. This book puts all in perspective as reminds us who we truly are, in spirit. Thanks to NetGalley for the eARC.

Jack Kornfield is a phenomenal storyteller as well as a curator of wonderful stories. I have heard or read some of the stories offered in this book, but in a different context they shine in a new light. The Tolstoy story of the Empress and her three questions is a favorite of mine. In addition to stories there are quotes and guided meditations which I appreciated. In the first half of the book I was overwhelmed with the number of stories told. It was too much of a good thing. As a well regarded teacher I would have liked more personal sharing of his own insights. This is the perfect book to read before the start or at the end of a day. I found it most enjoyable reading a couple of passages at a time.

Jack Kornfield is an inspiring teacher and speaker. His encouraging words of wisdom and peace are welcome and helpful. This book offers guidance as we endure both happiness and sorrow in life. I’ll be buying this wonderful book for relatives and friends! With much division in our world, sharing fables, stories, allegories, and modern poetry (Maya Angelou, Mary Oliver, George Washington Carver and others) illuminate the beauty of our human experience. Many lessons will resonate and be remembered after the book is read. I read each chapter before bed and it helped my peace of mind. The author reminds us that loving kindness and compassion are the best way forward. Our world can grow stronger, and so can we, if we remember the lessons shared in this book. Mindful awareness of our responsibilities to ourselves, our fellow human beings and care of our planet are vital to sustaining peace. Knowing what is important also helps us feel peace within ourselves. Service, love of neighbor, and a giving spirit of respect for all support communities. Willingness to discard pettiness lightens our own burdens. Staying curious helps us to develop empathy and imagination. Accepting the inevitable pain and suffering of life with courage is also essential. Keeping a tender and kind heart through it all is necessary. It is better to let trials soften us instead of harden us. The author’s description of his retreat with Ram Dass is wonderful! I appreciate this soothing and wise compilation. If we learn to be attentive, and continue to care, the path forward will appear.

There are books that are meant to be read once, and then passed on to others quickly, because I already gleaned as much as I needed from one quick pass through the pages. Then, there are others, the much loved ones, with bent page corners; notes or even doodles in the borders, that are very cherished and have a special place in my heart; this is one of the second kind.

As much as I appreciate the opportunity to read this special preview copy from Netgalley, I need an actual printed copy to read again--and again.

I have studied with the author in a feature at setting and read a great number of his works. Yet again he offers us somber and sane guidance for living in a cacophonous world, reminding us that we do not face the challenges of our day alone. Well done. A great addition to his body of work and timely.

Stories and teachings of the famous spiritual writer Jack kornfield relating lessons fot navigating the uncertainty of life.