Demons & Dharma
Fall 2012 Vol. 29 #1
Fall 2012 Vol. 29 #1
(279 pp., Hudson Street Press, 2012)
Phillip Moffitt calls himself an “interventionist,” and in his latest book he empowers us all by explaining how we can intervene with ourselves. Moffitt is deeply versed in both Western psychology and Buddhist mindfulness meditation, and he combines these disciplines to create a practical, almost common-sense approach to dealing with the difficulties of life. His exercises turn out to be a newly conceived set of “skillful means,” as they are known in Buddhism, showing us a more conscious way to live while simultaneously pointing to the deepest truths, the impersonal or universal quality of our experience. For instance, in the first section of the book titled “Practices That Empower You to Achieve Clarity,” Moffitt guides us through the fundamental spiritual issue of identity. In a clear and systematic manner Moffitt helps us see through what he calls “the myth of fingerprints,” and then provides us with some profound guided reflections that reveal “you are not your emotions” and “you are not your history.” In this way, Moffitt acts as both a spiritual guide and a practical life coach. As he writes, “I want you to discover more meaning and well-being in your life.” If that sounds good to you, read and follow the instructions in this masterful book.
∞
From the 2012 issue of Inquiring Mind (Vol. 29, No. 1)
© 2012 Wes Nisker
Author
