From Publishers Weekly
Efficiency versus love; attachment to performing, or achieving, against the freedom of simply being; the "how" of life opposed to the "why"--within these polarities occur the addictions that noted psychiatrist May ( Addiction and Grace ) defines as dysfunctions hobbling human spiritual potential. Integrating the wisdom of ancient mystics and the insights of contemporary thinkers, May examines the spiritual longings that are often hidden and controlled by society's pressures and expectations. Counseling against expecting perfection in human relationships, he reminds that "we are not meant to have all our yearnings satisfied and our spaces filled as individuals." In the tradition of M. Scott Peck's The Road Less Travelled , this eloquent guide to spiritual self-awareness is accessible to all and far removed from omnipresent 12-step programs. May is director for spiritual guidance at the Shalemsp ok?/yes Institute in Washington, D.C. Major ad/promo; author tour.
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From Library Journal
It is the nature of all human beings to want love, according to May, a psychiatrist and author of Addiction and Grace (HarperCollins, 1988) and Will and Spirit: A Contemplative Psychology ( LJ 2/1/83). The quest for efficiency and achievement often distracts us from this desire, and May contends that it is only through trusting and opening our hearts to love that we can live our lives free of addictive and compulsive behavior. Drawing on personal and counseling experiences, and the teachings of several religious philosophers and the Bible, he offers exercises designed to help develop the capacity to embrace love in all its forms. Purchase for large psychology and philosophy collections.
- Linda S. Greene, Chicago P.L.Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc.
