Title: Awareness
Author: Anthony de Mello
First published January 1, 1990
194 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9780006275190 (ISBN10: 0006275192)
Rating: 4.3
Overview
Anthony de Mello’s masterpiece, Awareness, has continued to captivate readers long after its initial release, holding the top spot on Fount’s bestseller list for over five years. With a rare and profound insight into the nature of consciousness, de Mello guides readers on a journey of self-discovery, illuminating the often-overlooked truths that lay hidden within.
Offering a powerful blend of philosophy, spirituality, and practical advice, this book remains an essential read for anyone seeking to awaken their true potential and live a life of meaning and purpose.
About the Author
Anthony de Mello was an influential figure in the world of spirituality. As a Jesuit priest and psychotherapist, he authored many books on the subject and hosted numerous spiritual conferences.
His talks, including “A Rediscovery of Life” and “A Way to God for Today,” were filmed and have inspired audiences across the United States, Canada, and Central America. De Mello even established a prayer center in India before his sudden death in 1987.
His works continue to be widely available, with additional writings published posthumously.
However, in 1998, the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith condemned some of de Mello’s opinions. Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, who later became Pope Benedict XVI, wrote a statement declaring that de Mello’s works showed “a progressive distancing from the essential contents of the Christian faith.” The Congregation aimed to protect the good of the Catholic faithful and deemed de Mello’s positions incompatible with the Catholic faith, as they could cause harm.
As a result, some editions of de Mello’s books include a cautionary statement clarifying that they were written in a multi-religious context to aid followers of other religions, agnostics, and atheists in their spiritual search. They were not intended as manuals of instruction for the Catholic faithful in Christian doctrine or dogma.
Editoral Review
Awareness is an inspiring work of non-fiction by the renowned spiritual teacher and Jesuit priest, Anthony de Mello. First published in 1990, the book offers an insightful guide to achieving mindfulness and inner peace amidst the noise and distractions of modern life.
De Mello’s compelling writing style and profound wisdom make this book an essential read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them. The book begins with de Mello outlining the importance of self-awareness in achieving a fulfilling life.
He argues that most of us are asleep to the reality of our existence, trapped in our own fears and anxieties, and unaware of the beauty and wonder of the world. He then goes on to provide a range of practical exercises and insights aimed at awakening readers to the present moment, allowing them to break free from their self-imposed limitations and tap into the infinite potential of life.
What sets Awareness apart from other self-help books is de Mello’s profound understanding of human psychology and spirituality. His teachings are grounded in the wisdom of Eastern and Western philosophy, and he seamlessly weaves together insights from diverse traditions to offer a holistic and practical approach to enlightenment.
He presents his teachings with a refreshing sense of humor and humility, and his writing is both engaging and accessible. One of the book’s most compelling aspects is its relevance to contemporary issues.
De Mello’s teachings on the nature of suffering, inner peace, and the illusion of the self are as pertinent today as they were when the book was first published. Moreover, his teachings on the importance of questioning one’s beliefs and challenging the status quo are particularly relevant in today’s socio-political climate.
That being said, some readers may find de Mello’s writing style to be overly didactic at times, and the book’s focus on self-improvement may not appeal to those who are skeptical of spirituality or self-help books. Additionally, some of the examples and anecdotes used in the book may not resonate with all readers, particularly those from different cultural or religious backgrounds.
Overall, Awareness is an excellent book that offers a wealth of valuable insights and practical exercises for anyone seeking to cultivate greater self-awareness and inner peace. Despite its flaws, it is a must-read for anyone interested in spirituality, personal growth, or mindfulness.
With its compelling writing style, profound teachings, and relevance to contemporary issues, it is a rare gem that deserves a place on every reader’s bookshelf. Rating: 4/5
