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The Power of Serenity and Peace: The Truth to
Finding Happiness in Today's Stressed-Out World by Keith A. Shaw MindBodySpiritCentral.com
book review by Jeannette J. Jennis
"If you allow yourself to stay and rest awhile in that calm and serene place and meditate there, the eye of truth will open within you."
Shaw's book contains a quote from L. A. Rouchefolicauld: "When a man finds no peace within himself, it is useless to seek it elsewhere." As elusive as serenity and peace may appear to be in a stressed-out world, the author believes it is not only possible but also essential that both be sought and attained. Beginning with a daily meditation period, certain spiritually powerful words culled from the teachings of Gautama Buddha—love, compassion, happiness, impurity and serenity—help create a deep sense of calm.
Each challenging chapter asks the reader to explore ways of finding their own inner truth and is complemented by a separate workbook that further develops each chapter's theme. Practical, insightful lessons as well as physical exercises are provided that stimulate awareness of the interactions of "self" with others. By surrendering this personality "self" through various spiritual practices, along with a vigorous process of self-examination, space for greater understanding of one's true identity is created. Shaw believes that only by first acknowledging one's flaws, inconsistencies, and prejudices, can life-changing attitudes be achieved. Without a persistent willingness to control one's thoughts, actions, and reactions, along with a sincere desire to be of service to others, little progress will be made in attaining serenity and peace within oneself.
Both Shaw's book and workbook contain numerous quotes from famous teachers of like mind who embrace his conviction that a peaceful spirit leads to inner truth and wisdom or in Shaw's words: "This is peace, to conquer love of self and lust of life, to tear deep-rooted passion from the heart, to still the inward strife."