The increasing complexities and mysteries of life have inspired a journey back to the essential teachings of the world’s ancient religions. Drawing on basic Buddhist tenets, Living Kindness helps the seeker on that journey. The same principles that guided the historical Gautama Buddha on his path to enlightenment are here — generosity, effort, patience, ethics, simplicity and meditation, wisdom, thoughtfulness, steadfastness, equanimity, and loving-kindness. Poetically drawn stories and anecdotes from the author’s life and the lives of his teachers demonstrate how these ten principles endure in the rituals and practices of many of the world’s great religions — and how they apply to modern living. The clarity, comfort, and guidance found in this book will help to teach and inspire sacred living.
Donald is a psychotherapist and former Buddhist monk. Born in Chicago, he now resides in Portland, Oregon, where he teaches at Portland State University as an adjunct faculty member of the Interpersonal Neurobiology Program, and is an adjunct professor at Lewis and Clark Graduate School of Education and Counseling. Donald also serves on the board of directors of "THE CENTER FOR MINDFUL EATING."
In his own words: "Mindfulness is my passion. I ordained in a Burmese Buddhist monastery with a wonderful mindfulness teacher-- the venerable U. Silananda (author of The Four Foundations of Mindfulness). Later, while leading workshops on spiritual eating, I found many people coming to ask me about eating disorders that they were struggling with... and so I returned to school and am now a licensed psychotherapist. I believe it only takes a few grains of mindfulness each day to deepen enjoyment in daily life, and I have seen how it has changed lives in a positive way... one moment at a time!"
In addition to bringing practical mindfulness skills and strategies to anyone wanting a less chaotic life, Donald also travels around the country teaching therapists and professionals how to use clinical mindfulness interventions for anxiety, depression, and stress.
