Meet New Books
Book Cover

Awareness: The Perils and Opportunities of Reality

Save:
Find on Amazon

Who Would Like This Book:

If you crave a deep, honest look at yourself and the world, "Awareness" might just become your go-to spiritual companion. Anthony de Mello’s style is direct, at times delightfully witty, and full of practical wisdom. The book is packed with eye-opening parables and real-talk about waking up to the present moment, shedding the emotional clutter, and living authentically. Many readers find themselves rereading it whenever they need encouragement or a mental reset. This is a treasure for seekers of mindfulness, fans of spiritual teachers like Eckhart Tolle or Alan Watts, or anyone feeling stuck or searching for a fresh perspective on life.

Who May Not Like This Book:

The book’s message isn’t for everyone - some readers find its approach too abstract, repetitive, or challenging to traditional beliefs. Others struggle with the conversational, lecture-based format, and a few are put off by what they see as cynicism or a lack of practical step-by-step ‘self-help’ advice. If you’re looking for a straightforward guide or can’t embrace unconventional viewpoints on spirituality and self, this one may not resonate.

A spiritual wake-up call that’s as simple as it is profound - be ready to question everything. Not always comfortable, but potentially life-changing if you’re open to the journey.

About:

'Awareness: The Perils and Opportunities of Reality' by Anthony de Mello is a life-changing read that delves into the concept of self-awareness and spiritual growth. Through a series of lectures and teachings, the author guides readers on a journey to uncover their true nature and find inner peace. The writing style is thought-provoking and insightful, challenging readers to reevaluate their perceptions of reality and learn to live in the present moment.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is characterized by its honest and direct prose, often adopting a stream of consciousness approach that conveys simple yet profound insights.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative focuses on challenging readers' beliefs and perceptions, promoting self-awareness and spiritual awakening through a mix of anecdotes and meditations.

Setting:

The setting is more conceptual than physical, centering around universal themes and inner experiences rather than a specific time or place.

Pacing:

The pacing allows for deep reflection, with varied sections that prompt the reader to contemplate the ideas presented rather than racing through the text.
Is psychology more practical than spirituality? Nothing is more practical than spirituality. What can the poor psychologist do? He can only relieve the pressure. I’m a psychologist myself, and I pract...

Notes:

The book has transformed many readers' lives, providing clarity and inner peace.
Readers appreciate that the insights align with truths they already knew but had forgotten.
It consists of anecdotes, parables, and meditations that challenge beliefs and perceptions.
It encourages a shift from attachment to awareness and detachment.
The author emphasizes self-love before sharing love with others.
Readers often revisit the book for renewed encouragement and understanding.
The audiobook version is highly recommended for its personal touch from Anthony de Mello himself.
The teachings encourage living in the present moment and being mindful of one’s thoughts and emotions.
The book mixes teachings from various religions without promoting any specific one.
Many find the book to be a life-changing read that continues to resonate years later.

From The Publisher:

"Wisdom from one of the greatest spiritual masters of our time."-James Martin, SJ, author of Jesus: A Pilgrimage

The heart of Anthony de Mello's bestselling spiritual message is awareness. Mixing Christian spirituality, Buddhist parables, Hindu breathing exercises, and psychological insight, de Mello's words of hope come together in Awareness in a grand synthesis.

In short chapters for reading in quiet moments at home or at the office, he cajoles and challenges: We must leave this go-go-go world of illusion and become aware. And this only happens, he insists, by becoming alive to the needs and potential of others, whether at home or in the workplace.

Here, then, is a masterful book of the spirit, challenging us to wake up in every aspect of our lives.

June 1990
186 pages

Ratings (2)

Incredible (1)
It Was OK (1)

Reader Stats (8):

Read It (2)
Want To Read (3)
Not Interested (3)

About the Author:

Anthony de Mello was a Jesuit Priest known throughout the world for his writings and spiritual conferences. He died suddenly in 1987. Among his many books are Sadhana and The Song of the Bird. J. Francis Stroud, the editor of Awareness, is a Jesuit priest who worked closely with Anthony de Mello.

 
Meet New Books is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a way for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to products and services on amazon.com and its subsidiaries.
When you click the Amazon link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commision, at no cost to you.