Be Water, My Friend

The Teachings of Bruce Lee

By: Shannon Lee

Narrated by: Shannon Lee

This program is read by the author

Bruce Lee’s daughter illuminates her father’s most powerful life philosophies—demonstrating how martial arts are a perfect metaphor for personal growth, and how we can practice those teachings every day.

"Empty your mind; be formless, shapeless like water."

Bruce Lee is a cultural icon, renowned the world over for his martial arts and film legacy. But Lee was also a deeply philosophical thinker, learning at an early age that martial arts are more than just an exercise in physical discipline—they are an apt metaphor for living a fully realized life.

Now, in Be Water, My Friend, Lee’s daughter Shannon shares the concepts at the core of his philosophies, showing how they can serve as tools of personal growth and self-actualization. Each chapter brings a lesson from Bruce Lee’s teachings, expanding on the foundation of his iconic “be water” philosophy. Over the course of the book, we discover how being like water allows us to embody fluidity and naturalness in life, bringing us closer to our essential flowing nature and our ability to be powerful, self-expressed, and free.

Through previously untold stories from her father’s life and from her own journey in embodying these lessons, Shannon presents these philosophies in tangible, accessible ways. With Bruce Lee’s words as a guide, she encourages listeners to pursue their essential selves and apply these ideas and practices to their everyday lives—whether in learning new things, overcoming obstacles, or ultimately finding their true path.

Be Water, My Friend is an inspirational invitation to us all, a gentle call to action to consider our lives with new eyes. It is also a testament to how one man's exploration and determination transcended time and place to ignite our imaginations—and to inspire many around the world to transform their lives.

A Macmillan Audio production from Flatiron Books

This book is a profound read. worth every minute..

This book is a profound read. worth every minute.. Read it and take heed my friend or don't. Do what you feel.

Sensational + Legendary, this book changed my life

I don't know what more to say other than the words of gifted philosopher Shannon Lee, and her engmatic and legendary father, have changed my life. Thank you to you all, I am eternally indebted to you. I wish you safety and peace ☺️🌸

very introspectively challenging

nothing relates to my deepest interest and why I am pursuing martial arts in the first place better than this book. definitely powerful things to contemplate for anyone. I'm sure Bruce is truly honored by the life and work of his daughter.

Worth the purchase

Very good, glad I purchased. While nothing overly profound, great to hear some of Bruce's story and teachings.

Beautiful book

I loved hearing more about an awesome guy and ways to be more like water.