Phyllis Cole-Dai je autorka, redaktorka, skladateľka a aktivistka, ktorá spája svoju hlbokú lásku k umeniu s vášňou pre humanitárnu službu. Jej práca je poháňaná hlbokou túžbou pomôcť vytvoriť mierumilovnejší a spravodlivejší svet, pričom umenie považuje za kľúčové pre našu schopnosť prežiť a rásť. Prostredníctvom svojej rozmanitej tvorby, ktorá zahŕňa poéziu, prózu a hudbu, skúma témy ako prítomnosť a súcit, často čerpá inšpiráciu zo svojich vlastných skúseností. Jej písanie a hudba sú opisované ako hlboko emocionálne a vizionárske, rezonujúce s čitateľmi a poslucháčmi na hlbokej úrovni.
This follow-up volume to the immensely popular Poetry of Presence presents a feast of mindfulness poems. The poems are skillfully crafted and highly accessible. Its authors speak from a rich variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and life-paths. Most are contemporary or recent poets. Many of the poems delve into relational or social mindfulness, exploring "the tough stuff" of living among others with presence. These poems invite us to face relational challenges without turning away from them. They encourage us to seek equanimity, and to address challenges with compassion, hope, courage, and humility.
The book explores the concept of "emergency," delving into its deeper meanings and implications. It highlights the significance of the word "emerge," suggesting that within crises, opportunities for growth and transformation can arise. Through thought-provoking insights, the narrative encourages readers to reflect on how emergencies can lead to new beginnings and understanding, making it a compelling read for those interested in personal development and resilience.
Challenging the notion of self-help literature, the book presents a candid exploration of personal growth without the usual promises of transformation. It engages readers with humor and honesty, encouraging them to embrace the imperfections of life rather than seek unattainable ideals. By focusing on realistic expectations and the acceptance of one's flaws, it offers a refreshing perspective on self-improvement that prioritizes authenticity over dramatic change.
In 1999, Phyllis Cole-Dai and James Murray chose to live on the streets of Columbus, Ohio, with the intention of offering sustained, nonjudgmental attention to everyone they encountered. This book chronicles their experiences, challenging readers to step out of their comfortable lives and confront the realities of homelessness. Accompanied by pinhole photographs taken by James with cameras made from trash, the narrative remains relevant today despite recounting events from 1999. It is described as an "eye-opening" and "life-changing" read. Readers are encouraged to take their time, perhaps engaging with one chapter per day for deeper reflection. While the book can be paired with Phyllis's "Practicing Presence," written on the tenth anniversary of their street experience, it is accessible to all, regardless of faith. It invites readers to explore fundamental human values through questions such as: How do we treat others as we wish to be treated? How do we extend love and hospitality to those who seem different? These timeless questions require daily contemplation and action. For those interested in further exploration, a free sampler of Phyllis's work is available by joining her mailing list. Categories for this book include spirituality, memoir, mindfulness, and social conscience.
August 18, 1862. On the Sioux reservation in southwestern Minnesota, Indians desperate for food and freedom rise up against whites in the region. Sarah Wakefield, the wife of a physician, is taken captive with her two babies. Their fate falls into the hands of the warrior Caske, with whom she has slim acquaintance. As war rages, little does she know how entwined their lives will become. Beneath the Same Stars is the gripping story of two people, caught between worlds, who are willing to do almost anything to defend those they care about--including each other. But the drama is bigger than themselves. Tragic forces have been set in motion...
