A Path and a Practice: Using Lao Tzu's Tao Te Ching as a Guide to an Awakened Spiritual Life

A version of the ancient classic which is a favorite of many readers

This is a difficult book to review. The author presents his personal dao (or path), which each one of us has, and which each one of us must discover for ourselves. If we choose to follow someone else's dao then that becomes an inauthentic dao since each person's authentic dao will be different from any other.Still, looking at the personal dao of others can be instructive, even inspiring.In the end, all personal daos converge and meet in Dao.If you're looking for more accurate translations from which you may discover your own dao, I recommend the ones from John Minford or Red Pine, which also include some ancient commentaries. You may also want to check out the very succinct translation from Stephen Addiss and Stanley Lombardo which is less interpretive and less paraphrased.

The wisdom and inspiration in this book is helpful for everyone who seeks peace and wholeness (holiness) in their lives.

I have three of this authors books, very thought provoking. Good way to start your day by reading a page every morning!

A Path and a Practice is just that: "a" way rather than a prescription for "the" way to begin a spiritual journey. I've use it as a morning meditation for a year now. When a friend borrowed it, and kept it, I bought a second copy. The beautiful imagery in the poems remind me to look closely and pause with the beautiful moments in my own neighborhood. They're hidden in secret corners, waiting for those of us who slow down and are willing to see them. The meditations in this book taught me how to slow down and take in the richness this life holds for us. I recommend it for everyone even curious about finding their own way, their own spiritual journey.

This was my introduction to Tao. Bill Martin is a wise, gentle, forthright teacher.......still guiding many people to an uplifting understanding of how life is.....and how to be comfortable even if "life is being life" and it isn't what I want...Taoism is a practice and an understanding that is never ending. But it requires a kind and compassionate guide along the way.....This works for me.

Having read the English translation of the Tao Te Ching, I found that the author provides some interpretation and guidelines for applying the concepts. His interpretation and guidance are open-ended. I sense no dogma in his words! His words offer ideas to help the reader absorb & understand the Tao concepts. Yes, it is a guidebook. I have opted to get several other of Martin's work as a result. Those considering this book will be best served if they are open-minded and curious.

This is now my go to daily read for grounding inspiration. We read from this each week in yoga class too. Mr. Martin's guide to each step in the Tao is beautifully thought through and helpful.

I love this book, the wisdom and peace within its pages should be shared among parents everywhere. A wonderful guide to living... and loving.

I bought this because I already have a copy, and have found it profoundly nourishing. It has embedded itself in my spiritual life one way or another. I wanted a copy to remain here at home and one in my partner's home. I often randomly (or guided by the spirit) choose a bedtime reading, reading very slowly - a kind of lectio divina method.

I like the fact I can dip into this daily and find something to question or reflect on. Alongside the original (translated) text for each 'chapter' are questions from the author to help us arrive at our own meanings.