The Book Of Awakening: Having the Life You Want by Being Present to the Life You Have [Paperback]

Ironically, when we walk in the shadow of death, it is a time when we feel illuminated by life's true meaning. Poet and philosopher Mark Nepo has first-hand experience with this mystery, having been diagnosed with cancer. During his arduous recovery, he sought inspiration and guidance that would reflect his glowing appreciation of life. This daybook is exactly what Nepo longed for; it is book that can be appreciated by readers in all walks of life.

Starting with 1 January and finishing with 30 December, this collection of essays offers a poet's sensibility and sensuality. Yet it also offers well-harvested wisdom. "Water reflects everything it encounters", Nepo writes in a 5 May essay. "This is so commonplace that we think water is blue, when in fact it has no colour... But the water, the glorious water everywhere has taught me that we are more than what we reflect or love. This is the work of compassion: to embrace everything clearly without imposing who we are and without losing who we are". After each entry, Nepo offers a short list of suggestions or questions to help carry the essay into the day. There are many inspirational daybooks out there. What sets this one apart is the mature poet's voice rising from a seasoned soul. --Gail Hudson

"A year's supply of inspiration every day and the perfect gift for yourself and your friends." -Oprah Winfrey

Mark Nepo is a poet and philosopher who has taught in the fields of poetry and spirituality for over thirty years. Nominated for the Lenore Marshall Poetry Prize, he has written several books including The Exquisite Risk which Spirituality & Health Magazine cited as one of the Best Spiritual Books of 2005, calling it "one of the best books we've ever read on what it takes to live an authentic life," as well as The Book of Awakening, Acre of Light, Fire Without Witness, God, the Maker of the Bed, and the Painter. Mark is also the editor of Deepening the American Dream: Reflections on the Inner Life and Spirit of Democracy, a collection of essays. His book of poetry include Suite for the Living, Surviving Made Me Crazy, and Inhabiting Wonder. In addition, Unlearning Back to God, a collection of Mark's published essays from 1985-2005 is also available. His works have been translated into French, Portuguese, Japanese, and Danish. As a cancer survivor, Mark remains committed to the usefulness of daily inner life. Through both his writing and teaching, he devotes himself to the life of inner transformation and relationship, exploring the expressive journey of healing where the paths of art and spirit meet. For 18 years, Mark taught at the State University of New York at Albany. He now serves as a Program Officer for the Fetzer Institute in Kalamazoo, Michigan, a non-profit foundation devoted to fostering awareness of the power of love and forgiveness in the emerging global community. He continues to give readings, lectures, and retreats.