Customer Reviews

Moments in Between: The Art of the Quiet Mind

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A lot of books we buy as gifts fit that person's hobby or special interest, like flowers, cars, mountains, music, etc.

Moments in Between is a gift book you must give to yourself first--then think of others who could benefit from the message.

I found the content filling me up with spectacular photos to mark the chapters and the pointed and appropriate quotes to enhance the message in the well-thought-out prose.

The message is about time--that in-between space we think of as insignificant, when compared to the big events--spaces that are very important.

The author says, "The quiet moments--rests--in your day make your whole day sound well."

If you are like me, you have trouble "doing nothing." I don't mean vegging out in front of the TV either. Now I know that doing nothing means stopping, looking, feeling, sensing, taking in whatever is in that quiet time. Maybe it's a "blue moon" or any awe-inspiring full moon. Maybe it's a bird's song. Maybe it's a smile from a loved one, or a stranger.

The book's wise stories, et. al,, are a retreat that allows us to be restored. Through the message you will find new ways to deal with life and learn how to pay closer attention to the big moment--and the tiny flash of brilliance we often overlook.

"What is life if, full of care, we have no time to stand and stare." -- W.H. Davies. Armchair Interviews agrees.

"It is exactly during those moments, when your meanings and your values and your awareness of God combine to create the energy that takes charge of your time, that you live life to the fullest." - From the book

Building upon sage, inspiration quotes, Moments in Between by David Kundtz offers contemplative essays designed to promote tranquility, calmness, and clarity in the midst of a too-busy world. At 127-pages, this hardback book features glossy pages, full-color photographs, and messages advocating "doing nothing".

Kundtz quote Marcel Proust who said "The realm voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes." While "doing nothing" can seem simplistic--or, as in the case of the human ego that loves to complicate, too difficult--Kundtz reminds readers that "seeing something that you have been looking at all your life" is essential for waking up and remembering who you are.

Moments in Between is divided into ten themes:

* A New Way of Dealing with Life
* Still Moments in Busy Days
* Making Room for Life
* Remembering to Take Time
* Finding Your Balance
* The Moments in Between
* Creating Opportunities for Serenity
* Defining Your Values
* Paying Attention
* Knowing Thyself
* Awakening to Wonder

Unfortunately, the beginning of the book shows incorrect page numbers for Chapters 5-10 so if you're looking for a particular theme, you'll have a hard time finding its beginning. (I was actually seeking wisdom on a particular theme, when I realized that half of the Table of Contents was misidentified!)

When I first took a look at this book, I didn't like it. I'm not sure why. I think I felt that the ideas were forced and shallow. I put it to the side for months, but picked it up again to review. (And I was set on giving it a negative review, even before I discovered the printing errors in the Table of Contents!)

However, I read some of the essays and they delivered the exact wisdom I needed at the time--which surprised me given my initial impression of Moments in Between. I found the ideas to be thoughtful and sensible, and the quotes are pithy gems. And the photos? Gorgeous!

While Moments in Between has a lot going for it, I don't think the format is for everyone. You may enjoy the author's book Quiet Mind instead unless, of course, you enjoy glossy pages and vibrant photos in more of a gift-book presentation.

I actually love these kinds of books but this one fell far short for me. One pager layout which I like but the over arching theme seems to be 'do nothing' and have a quiet mind. My college age daughter likes these kinds as well and walked away with a similar feeling. For us anyway there was no substance here that was actionable. Looks great but no cigar.

I am thrilled with the quality of the book. It is like buying brand new. It could not have been better and the delivery was faster than I had expected. Thanks again.