Book Review - From A Christian Perspective:

Mindfulness: The Path to the Deathless - The Meditation Teaching of Venerable Ajahn Sumedho
by Ajahn Sumedho

Reviewed by Debra Chong, Medicine (4th Year), The University of Melbourne

Mindfulness is a short yet simple and excellent book explaining the Buddhist philosophies and practices such as meditation that can definately be applied to everyday life. As a person unfamiliar with Buddhism, I was not sure what to expect from reading this book. What I found were common sense words of guidance on how we humans can live our best lives - detaching ourselves from fear-driven behaviours and emotions that cause us so much pain, and instead fuelling our lives with love and compassion in an unromantic, yet practical and fulfilling way.

The book is divided into three sections: an introduction, an investigation into meditation and, probably the most rewarding section for me, instruction on the Buddhist principles for 'dummies.' 'Heavy' concepts are handled deftly, and I found Sumedho's teachings engaging and fascinating.

What makes this book so genuinely encouraging is Sumedho's acknowledgment of how difficult it can be for us to practise something as seemingly easy as meditation. The book not only provides pointers on how to meditate, but insights on how we can best prepare ourselves for the 'resistance, fear and frustration' that will undoubtably arise for beginners and skeptics alike. I learnt that meditation isn't a way to block out negative thoughts, but a tool we can use to fade them out of our minds. Scattered throughout Mindfulness are many pearls of wisdom, that, once read, are potentially life-changing. Indeed, for me they provoked many moments of enlightenment.

Sumedho introduces the concept of 'metta' (kindness) with beautiful simplicity. In the chapter dedicated to this topic we are taught how to love our enemies and thus let go of any negative feelings and emotions for these people, for our sake just as much as theirs. Indeed, the compassion of Buddhism shines through here!

Another excellent chapter is that on 'Listening to Thought' which focuses on the importance of allowing our negative thoughts, fears and anxieties to surface, and the next step which is how to let go of them. True annihilation of negativity, we are taught, comes through conscious awareness rather than repression.

The chapter, 'Hindrances and their Cessation' is a must read for those who are interested in self-growth and overcoming personal hurdles. Sumedho also leads through the five hindrances: Sensual desire, Aversion or the desire to eliminate personal irritations and resentments, Sleepiness/Lethargy, Restlessness, and Doubt. By reading this chapter not only can we gain insight into how the energy and spirit we inject into our own lives can be depleted by these hindrances, but also how the five hindrances can also serve as our 'teachers.'

The final chapter puts all the principles together. Sumedho shows us the importance of inner vigilance, concentration, reflection and awareness of intentions, thoughts, feelings and desires that drive our lives. Ultimately, we can find peace through being mindful and by meditating daily.

Overall, I thought Mindfulness was a fantastic light read. I strongly suggest, if you are interested in learning about spiritual principles or wanting to learn how to live your best life, that you read this book. You will not be disappointed!