Stories and Essential Teachings from a Monk's Life
December 5, 2016
In a collection of previously published works and unpublished talks, Nhat Hanh (The Miracle of Mindfulness) offers readers stories and teachings from his life. Nhat Hanh, known for his simple and tender style of Zen instruction, teaches through short vignettes drawn from multiple periods of his life: his youth in Vietnam, the Vietnam War and his eventual exile, the establishment of the Sweet Potato Community and Plum Village in France, and his teachings abroad. Through these stories, he provides an inspirational and moving example of understanding and compassion constantly at work in the everyday world. Some lessons can be gleaned from his stories: that one should slow down and pay mindful awareness to daily activities; that one should practice nonviolence and compassion in the face of hatred, violence, or intolerance; and that one should cultivate a true home by taking care of the self, caring for one’s feelings, and generating compassionate understanding. For Nhat Hanh, happiness is not to be found by constant pursuit: “There is no way home; home is the way.” Followers and newcomers to Nhat Hanh’s teaching alike will find this collection inspiring for everyday practice and for social engagement in the world.
February 1, 2017
Vietnamese Zen Buddhist monk and peace activist Hanh (The Miracle of Mindfulness) has an extensive resume, much of which includes his publications on issues of social justice, peace, and mindfulness for the past 50 years. This small work pulls together some previously published writings and unpublished talks given over the course of his long career; a sort of poetic summary of his life. Chapter titles reflect autobiographical elements as well as Hanh's efforts to spread active engagement in all the moments of life. In places lyrical, in others polemical, his voice is always gentle, affirming, and full of gratitude. Of the need for solidarity in the face of political and economic hardship, he writes, "You, my brothers and sisters, are truly my companions." VERDICT Reading this inspiring account will prove to be a worthwhile exercise in mindfulness.--SC
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