Unconditional Confidence

The inner journey has many twists, turns, dead ends and distractions. This is my third "read" of Pema Chodron and in each one I have come away with guideposts, clear vision and surer footing for my own travels inward. Her manner, demeanor and quiet assurance are evident in her voice. Her ability to speak spontaneously with stories, analogies and structured technique lend confidence to my own experiences.

To be able to carry her words and her voice into my own meditations and daily life contribute to my growing confidence in my ability to find my way to peace, happiness and equinimity.

The only drawback to this book, in my mind, was the interview that was the second half of the book. I liked the idea behind the interview and some of the questions were helpful in clrarifying some of the material in the teachings. However, it became redundant and I found the interviewer's voice somewhat grating--this may be a personal preference that others might not share. I would not, however, let it stop me from reading a great lesson from a sensitive, wise teacher.

I appreciate Pema Chodron's down to earth, straightforward clarity in speaking to mindfulness and courage. She is matter of fact in speaking to the realities of pain and fear in life but finds a way to bring those realities into a relationship with self. She successfully opens opportunities to engage mindfullness with out attaching to fear or anxiety

listen to it

If you're looking for some realistic, invaluable buddhist teachings from a down-to-earth teacher, Pema is it.

This is my 4th lecture from the great teacher and Pema delivers a really great performance.
I would recommend this to anyone.

Here Pema Chodron gives her a personal interview at the end of the book about her past and how she came to be in Buddhism. She goes through here two meditations and one is very powerful. Here we learn about rooting ourselves to be flexible and preparing ourselves to be ready for the unexpected. I've been reading on old 'Earth' religions and they teach the same thing. I've found this technique very useful. Here you will find the information very useful and helpful.

This is 1/2 speech and 1/2 interview. Both are great. Could be a little more detailed but, enjoyable for those starting out in the study of Buddism and the path of enlightenment.

I tried hard to get something out of this book but she never really says anything at all. Fortunately it's short so not a big waste but I think she missed the mark on whatever she was trying to say. There was one great quote about getting knocked down by waves and continuing to get up even though you know there's another right behind it, but the rest is fluff. Not even cliche's, just nothing. Even the interviewer at the end tries to figure out what she is actually saying but without much luck.