Blog Archives
SOL: supportive guidance for healing & awakening
Joseph Clarke’s SOL – Supportive Guidance for Healing & Awakening is a compelling book for readers seeking solace and growth amidst life’s tumultuous journey. This self-help book, divided into insightful parts, guides readers through understanding their divine nature, introduces daily practices for spiritual and personal development, and emphasizes the importance of community in one’s healing journey. Clarke’s book is both personal and universal, rooted in his own experiences with acute myeloid leukemia, which catalyzed his deep dive into spiritual awakening and mindfulness.
Clarke’s writing effectively demystifies complex spiritual concepts. The book’s first part offers a buffet of spiritual wisdom that is both profound and accessible, making it easy to connect with the ideas presented. Particularly striking is the way Clarke explains the ephemeral nature of existence through the metaphor of the universe as a “dream,” encouraging a reevaluation of our perceptions and our place within the cosmos.
The book is comprehensive in its scope but I think some readers might find the wealth of practices in Part 2, the “SOL Flourishing Program™,” overwhelming. While these practices aim to cater to diverse needs, the sheer volume could be daunting for those new to mindfulness or spiritual practice. Yet, for those willing to navigate through this abundance, the rewards are substantial, offering tools that can be tailored to fit individual paths toward healing.
The inclusion of community engagement in Part 3 is a highlight for me, recognizing that healing is not just an internal process but one that involves our interactions with others. Clarke’s emphasis on community not only broadens the book’s appeal but also serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of our experiences.
SOL is a treasure trove of spiritual insights and practical wisdom. It is particularly suited for those who are at a crossroads, individuals facing health challenges, or anyone embarking on a journey of personal transformation. Its lessons are universal yet deeply personal, and Clarke’s compassionate voice assures us that healing is within reach, inviting us to explore the depths of our own spirits with courage and hope.
Pages: 358 | ASIN : B0CXH2WWFG
Content in the Present
Eithanjewel follows a celestial being on a quest for self-discovery who, along with his soulmate, visits Earth to uncover the answers he is looking for. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The inspiration for this story was to create a self-help book that wouldn’t be an instruction manual with specific steps on how to live one’s life but rather show one how to identify one’s life lessons and appreciate the steps or missteps one has to make to learn them.
This book is a genre-crossing with elements of Fantasy, philosophy, and imaginative fiction as well. Did you start writing with this in mind, or did this happen organically as you were writing?
I did intend for the genre-bending nature of the book as I wanted to showcase the polarity of the incarnations and deal with multiple topics and themes.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The biggest theme that I wanted to explore in this work was acceptance. This was important to me because it is a necessary theme in everyone’s life. To accept yourself, the people around you, and your circumstances is the first step towards living your most fulfilled life. Acceptance does not mean that you cannot strive for more but it allows you to be content in the present moment.
Is this the first book in the series? If so, when is the next book coming out, and what can your fans expect in the next story?
I have not decided if I will write a sequel. However, a sequel has been requested by most of the beta readers. I am currently working on a YA series. The first book looks like it may be published towards the end of the year or beginning of 2025.
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
Eithanjewel is a celestial being who wakes up at the moment of creation. Unlike his siblings and soulmate, Eithanjewel cannot find contentment within his existence without fully understanding the meaning of his life and universe. He relentlessly follows around his creator nagging him with questions until God offers him an opportunity to go to Earth and search for his own answers.
Eithanjewel is a story of self-discovery, love, invention and magic. It is a collection of universal truths hidden within fiction. It is a great companion for those who seek out old magicks.
Eithanjewel
In Eithanjewel, author Kimlyn Stanyon crafts a captivating tale that seamlessly blends fantasy, philosophy, and the quest for self-discovery. Set in a celestial realm where energy, creation, and existence converge under the guidance of a mysterious creator, known as the Perfect One, the narrative invites readers into a world of profound wonder. Central to this cosmic story is Eithanjewel, a celestial being who awakens at the dawn of creation. Unlike his contented siblings, Eithanjewel is driven by an insatiable curiosity and a profound desire to understand the meaning of his existence and the universe. His relentless quest for answers propels him to challenge the Perfect One, who ultimately grants him a singular opportunity: a journey to Earth to seek his own truths. Accompanied by his devoted soulmate, Niaomi, Eithanjewel embarks on this uncharted adventure, with both eager to uncover the answers they seek. Yet, even the Perfect One cannot predict the long and winding path they will traverse on Earth to fulfill their destiny.
Stanyon’s Eithanjewel transcends the boundaries of a typical fantasy novel. It is a deep exploration of universal truths and the human condition, cleverly woven into a fictional framework. The narrative is rich with philosophical and existential themes, posing profound questions about purpose, existence, and the nature of reality. “We all have free will so the outcomes presented by the cards are only potentials. It is still your decisions that create your reality.” Stanyon’s prose is both lyrical and evocative, painting vivid images of cosmic landscapes and the protagonist’s internal struggles. As Eithanjewel and Niaomi navigate their journey on Earth, the book delves into the complexities of love, identity, and the pursuit of knowledge. While drawing some parallels with biblical creation and annunciation stories, Eithanjewel stands out with its unique narrative and distinct perspective. It is a thought-provoking and enchanting novel that will appeal to readers who enjoy speculative fiction with a philosophical twist.
Kimlyn Stanyon has crafted a story that not only entertains but also invites readers to ponder the mysteries of life and the universe. Whether you’re a fan of philosophical musings or simply appreciate beautifully written, imaginative fiction, Eithanjewel is a book worth exploring.
Pages: 450 | ASIN : B0D8CJ7QN9
Fireside Reflections : A Papa’s Lessons for a Successful Life
In Fireside Reflections, Alan Dahl offers a wealth of insights aimed at guiding young adults and others through pivotal life decisions. Through a blend of personal anecdotes and practical advice, Dahl addresses the complexities of different life stages with clarity and wisdom. The narrative, enriched by stories from his childhood and adulthood, encapsulates the essence of the challenges and choices one encounters throughout life. Drawing from his youthful passion for fishing, Dahl illustrates the virtues of patience and deeper perception, emphasizing the need to look beyond the obvious. His reflections on marriage, underpinned by biblical principles, highlight the effort required to nurture a successful partnership.
The book spans a wide array of topics, including investments, savings, faith, education, love, purchasing a car, national pride, and funding higher education. Throughout, Dahl underscores the rewards of meticulous planning and informed decision-making. His straightforward approach, devoid of unnecessary complexity, makes the book akin to a candid yet insightful conversation, enhanced by engaging personal stories and memorable lessons.
Fireside Reflections stands out for its accessibility. Dahl’s clear, simple prose captures and maintains the reader’s attention, offering practical advice on finances and education, from short-term savings strategies to investing in index funds and exchange-traded funds (ETFs). The book’s educational value is further amplified by its smooth, efficient coverage of these topics. Despite incorporating Bible-themed messages, Dahl maintains a respectful and neutral tone, ensuring the content is approachable for readers of all religious backgrounds. Both Christians and non-Christians will find value in his guidance without feeling alienated. Moreover, the book’s clean language and universal lessons make it suitable for readers across different age groups.
Fireside Reflections is a great resource that is brimming with life lessons that promise to resonate with the younger generation, helping them avoid costly mistakes and make wise choices. It offers a roadmap to a fulfilling, successful, and joyful life, making it a valuable read for anyone, regardless of age.
Pages: 200 | ASIN: B0D4DLSN4G
Dove & the Dao: Dao De Jing for Christians
In Dove & the Dao, Jason S. Comely presents a compelling fusion of Daoist philosophy and Christian theology, reinterpreting the timeless verses of Lao Tzu’s Dao De Jing through a Christian lens. This book offers a thought-provoking exploration of spiritual concepts, aiming to harmonize Eastern wisdom with Western religious tenets. Each chapter presents a verse from the Dao De Jing, reimagined in the context of Christian doctrine, followed by reflective invitations encouraging readers to integrate these teachings into their daily lives.
Comely’s approach to blending the Dao and the Dove—the Holy Spirit—presents an intriguing perspective on the commonalities between these two spiritual traditions. His writing is contemplative and invites readers to reflect deeply on their spiritual journey. One of the standout aspects of the book is how it seamlessly interweaves the cryptic wisdom of the Dao with Christian principles, making it accessible for readers who may not be familiar with Daoist philosophy.
One of the book’s strengths lies in its practical applications. Each chapter concludes with an “Invitation,” a call to action that encourages readers to apply the combined wisdom of Dao and Christianity to their everyday lives. These invitations provide tangible steps for readers to reflect on and enhance their spiritual practices. This hands-on approach helps bridge the gap between abstract philosophical concepts and daily life, making the book not just a theoretical exploration but a practical guide for personal growth.
Dove & the Dao offers a unique and enriching perspective for readers interested in exploring the intersection of Eastern and Western spiritual traditions. Jason S. Comely’s blend of Daoist and Christian teachings encourages a reflective and harmonious approach to spirituality, making this book a valuable resource for those seeking to deepen their understanding of both traditions. It’s particularly well-suited for Christians who are curious about Daoist philosophy, or for anyone interested in a more integrated approach to spiritual wisdom.
Pages: 116 | ASIN : B0C6FN525F
University of Hard Knocks
Have you ever pondered upon the profound questions of why you are here, where you fit in, what you are born to do, what gift you are born to give? In other words, have you figured out your contribution to the world, the grand tapestry of life, and the symphony of human civilization?
In moments of introspection during his retirement years, Rolland felt as if he had unwittingly ‘wandered in the desert’ for 40 years (1975-2015 or 1980-2020). Yet, in hindsight, his life’s purpose was, at some pivotal points in his career -unbeknownst to him- already staring him in the face. He just failed to appreciate and recognize, much earlier, his life’s true purpose. In essence, the author failed to ‘bloom’ where God had already planted him!
If you are a teen or young adult -but especially if you are an immigrant or a member of a minority group- on a quest for your life’s purpose, this book was written for you. It’s a self-help guide outlining practical steps you can use to find and crystallize your life’s true purpose … sooner, rather than 40 years later!
If you follow the guidance contained in this book, you would hopefully avoid the shame and ultimate embarrassment of a lifetime which befell the book’s author: ‘wandering in the desert for forty years’ without constancy to purpose, to the abject dismay of his humdrum biography.
This book is also a clarion call for all citizens, especially immigrants and minorities, to say GOODBYE to apathy and indifference and, instead, to say HELLO to active participation and involvement in an ailing American democracy.
In these extraordinary times, sitting on the sidelines is simply unacceptable. Do you have a definite purpose? What does it mean for you –with your distinct set of skills, knowledge, passions, and talents– to be here in America at this particular moment in time?
The answers lie within you, waiting for you to bring them to light. May you embrace your uniqueness and align your actions with your deepest strengths, values, and aspirations … so you can experience a deep sense of fulfillment of your life’s purpose.
Yes, You Matter asserts that self-reflection is essential for understanding oneself and living to one’s fullest potential. What inspired you to write this book?
My realization, upon retirement that I failed to ‘bloom where I was planted’ inspired me to write this book. You see, upon retirement, I felt a great sense of regret and guilt when I came face to face with the reality that –having been blessed by the Almighty with the great fortune of life in America, a safe haven and comfortable refuge from the clutches of a burgeoning dictatorship I fled decades ago– I did NOT live my life with a constancy to purpose. With no definiteness of purpose, I, therefore, failed to fulfill my life’s true purpose … I failed to make it in America despite an environment of unparalleled freedom and opportunity for immigrants in the Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave! In hindsight, my successes in the CPA profession and in local electoral politics did not measure up to my true potential.
My intent in writing this book is simple: To be of service, to pass on the key lessons I learned from the University of Hard Knocks so that readers don’t end up ‘wandering in the desert for 40 years’ without definiteness of purpose’ like I did, to the abject dismay of my humdrum biography.
I appreciated the candid nature with which you told your story. What was the hardest thing for you to write about?
For me, out of the whole book, the hardest thing to write about was the discussion on Chapter 4, “Passion and Purpose: Are They the Same?” I had to discuss the twin topics of passion and purpose from the intellectual and practical vantage points to be helpful to the reader. With no formal training in psychology or philosophy, Chapter 4 really challenged me.
What is one thing you hope readers take away from Yes, You Matter?
The pursuit of purpose can be met with challenges and uncertainties. The expectations of others, the pressures of society, and the fear of failure can cloud your vision and divert you from your true path. In such moments, it becomes essential to quiet the outside noise and listen to your heart’s whispers. Allow your intuition and inner wisdom to guide you, for they are the compass that will lead you toward your purpose. Embrace your uniqueness, nurture your passions, and step forward with courage and conviction.
Can readers look forward to seeing more from you soon? What are you currently working on?
Yes, despite health issues, I’m working on a few more books on the twin topics of K-12 education and American democracy.
Author Website
This book was born out of a great sense of regret and guilt which the author felt after he had retired, when he came face to face with the reality that he –blessed by the Almighty with the great fortune of life in America, a safe and comfortable refuge from the clutches of a burgeoning dictatorship he fled decades ago– had failed to fulfill his life’s purpose, despite an environment of freedom and opportunity for immigrants in the Land of the Free and Home of the Brave! In moments of introspection during his retirement years, the author felt as if he had unwittingly ‘wandered in the desert’ for 40 years. Yet, In hindsight, his life’s purpose was, at some pivotal points in his career, already staring him in the face. He just failed to appreciate and recognize his life’s true purpose. The author failed to ‘bloom’ where God had already planted him!
If you are a teen or young adult, an immigrant, or a member of a minority group on a quest for your life’s purpose, this book was written for you. It’s a self-help guide outlining practical steps you can use to find and crystallize your life’s true purpose … sooner, rather than later.
Hopefully, this book can help the reader avoid the shame and ultimate embarrassment of a lifetime which befell the book’s author: ‘wandering in the desert for forty years’ without constancy to purpose, without definiteness of purpose, to the abject dismay of his humdrum biography.
This book is also a clarion call for all citizens, especially immigrants, and minorities, to say GOODBYE to apathy and indifference and, instead, to say HELLO to active participation and involvement in an ailing American democracy. Whatever suits you, in these extraordinary times, sitting on the sidelines is simply unacceptable. What does it mean for you –with your distinct set of skills, knowledge, passions, and talents– to be here in America at this particular moment in time?
The answers lie within you, waiting for you to bring them to light. May you embrace your uniqueness and align your actions with your deepest strengths, values, and aspirations … so you can experience a deep sense of fulfillment of your life’s purpose.
Yes, You Matter … Your Purpose Awaits You!
In Yes, You Matter, Rolland B. presents a compelling guide for personal growth and self-discovery, exploring the depths of human potential. Central to the book’s thesis is the belief that self-reflection is crucial to avoid stagnation and to continuously evolve in understanding oneself. By asking challenging existential questions, the book doesn’t just ponder life’s mysteries but also propels readers to critically assess their own existence and life choices.
The author skillfully intertwines philosophical concepts, psychological theories, and spiritual insights to create a robust framework for readers. Drawing on Abraham Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, the Japanese concept of Ikigai, and the Greek philosophy of Eudaimonia, Rolland B. constructs a multi-faceted approach towards finding and nurturing one’s purpose. The book’s practicality is one of its strengths, offering actionable exercises and strategies to help readers build self-worth, confront self-doubt, and follow their passions with conviction. Rolland B.’s encouraging tone is another highlight of the book. He engages readers with empathy, understanding, and a shared sense of struggle, making the journey of self-discovery feel like a communal experience. This approach makes the book not only informative but also deeply relatable. The author’s real-life experiences with societal pressures, self-doubt, and challenging relationships lend authenticity and depth to his guidance, positioning him as a credible and experienced voice on the subject. The book’s nuanced handling of sensitive topics, such as ethnicity and toxic relationships, is noteworthy. The author navigates these subjects with care and insight, reflecting his deep understanding and experience in self-reflection. The use of metaphors adds an element of elegance and further depth to the narrative.
Yes, You Matter is an inspiring call to action in a world often dominated by social media trends and the threat of conformity. It’s a book that not only encourages self-assessment and personal growth but also champions the importance of charting one’s unique path in life. With its blend of philosophical depth, practical advice, and empathetic tone, the book stands as a valuable resource for anyone seeking to understand themselves better and forge a meaningful and fulfilling life.
Pages: 230 | ASIN : B0CTWHW6TS
LITERARY TITAN 