Amazon.com Amazon.com Review (ISBN 0140196242, Paperback)

Like many great teachers, it is not what he says that makes Bo Lozoff so inspiring, it is how he says it. Named one of the top 100 spiritual visionaries by the Utne Reader, Lozoff is a renowned lecturer and the cofounder of the Human Kindness Foundation, which sponsors the Prison-Ashram Project (originally started with Ram Dass).

Having spent 35 years studying interfaith teachings, Lozoff speaks with a humble authority, drawing upon the wisdom of Buddhism as effortlessly as he quotes Saint Paul or recounts stories from Judaism. As a seeker, he knows what it takes to sustain a spiritual practice, which is why half of his book is devoted to this crucial task. Although he offers practical advice, he never falters into a superficial "how to" voice. Rather, Lozoff uses a spiritually mature narrative to demonstrate how life can be a meaningful process, instead of "a climb to the top." Essays include a practice for facing fears, mantras for everyday life, and a prayer of humility.

Where the first half of the book addresses the "Inner Journey of Communion," the second emphasizes "The Outer Path Toward Community." Considering his life work, such as offering spiritual guidance to prisoners, it is not surprising that Lozoff gives equal time to living a life of service. Starting with understanding one's life calling, and moving through commitments to loved ones and the greater world, this section sings with intelligence, nudging us beyond practice and into a life worth living. --Gail Hudson