Customer Reviews

Perfect Just as You Are: Buddhist Practices on the Four Limitless Ones--Loving-Kindness, Compassion, Joy, and Equanimity

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With this series Pema Chodron provides an immersion into the ancient practice of metta-bhavana (loving kindness). The practice represents the very root of Buddhism (and can therefore be found in both Vajrayana/Mahayana and Theravada traditions). Not surprisingly,it also encompasses the very essence of Christian teachings. While simple, anyone who has attempted them, knows that these practices can be difficult, frustrating and excruciating. they challenge the very physiology of our limbic system, the very organization of our body. One after another, Pema's students reveal how difficult it was for them to accept love, love themselves or send love to others.

What is apparent from these CDs, however, is the honesty, simplicity and depth of Chodron herself. She does not hide herself and unlike her own teacher she does not pretend, usurp or impose the all-knowing "divine incarnation" confidence trick on her students. I could see right away that this woman is an ethical person who has made a conscious commitment to "end all suffering". In this world in which one is very lucky to meet a spiritual teacher without a chip on their shoulder, Pema is a shining beacon.

In other words, this is a valuable and precious compilation transmitting teachings of a profound spiritual tradition through an accomplished, compassionate and selfless teacher. One of the best introductions to spiritual practice possible. And if you're serious about Buddhist practice, this is one of the best investments you will make.

I have listened to many of Pema Chodron's cd's and I found this series to be one of my favorite. It is very accessible material, presented in a warm, engaging way. The recording is from a six-week "urban retreat" where participants attended sessions weekly and then take the material and practice back into their daily life. Consequently, the material is broken down into very "do-able" lessons, and there is homework for the attendees to do between sessions. This structure encouraged me to actually work along with the class instead of skipping over exercises.
I really love Pema's teaching style. Her humor and humility and commitment are so inspiring in my own practice. Her insight and guidance is a real gift in my life.
One review commented on the slowed down sound of Pema's voice on this recording. I found it a little odd,too, since it sounded different from her natural voice that I know from her other recordings. The good news is that this slowed down voice is only on the first disc. After that , back to normal. So do not let that discourage you from exploring this beautiful, healing series!
My other favorite of Pema's recordings is "Getting Unstuck." All of her books are fabulous.
Namaste!!

This is a 2009 release but it does not sound at all "current" regarding both the teaching content and Pema's style. It doesn't seem as evolved as her other teachings. I've been to listening to Pema for years now, and there is something not quite right here. The audio seems to be slowed down, and I have no idea if it's done to make Pema's voice sound younger by making it deeper, or to stretch out the number of minutes to make it seem like you're getting more content. Whatever it is, it is irritating, so there's some continuous practice involved (accepting without aggravation) in listening to this. The teaching is fine but it's been done as well or better in previous recordings, several for a better price. I'd recommend True happiness, Getting Unstuck or Don't Bite The Hook over this title.

This is a great CD set...Pema Chodron has the ability to convey the teachings in a real life moment by moment relative way...she addresses so much with every sentence, a wonderful tool for better understanding "as we are".

As a practicing Buddhist, I feel that this CD is a welcome addition to my library, and very helpful. As a fairly average woman, I found this work to be uplifting and inspiring. I always love her words and voice.

I left it on the plane. I guess the one who found it needed it.