When Things Fall Apart: Heart Advice for Difficult Times by Pema Chodron

When Things Fall Apart:

Heart Advice for Difficult Times
by Pema Chodron

Hardcover - 147 pages (January 1997)
Shambhala Publications; ISBN: 1570621608

Synopsis
An American Buddhist teacher reveals the secret to happiness in the midst of life's difficulties. Pema Chodron shows that the secret to freeing ourselves from pain is not to run away from it, but to step right into the uncharted territory of difficulty with friendliness and curiosity and to relax with the groundlessness of our condition--however difficult it may be.

There is a fundamental happiness available to every individual--yet we usually miss it while spending our lives trying to escape suffering that is ultimately guite inescapable. Pema Chodron, an American Buddhist teacher, shows that the secret to freeing oneself from pain is not to run from it, but to step right up to the uncharted territory of difficulty with friendliness and curiosity.

Reviews:

Excellent Reading

October 21, 1999

Reviewer: A reader from Worcester, Ma, USA

Ane Pema Chodron writes in a clear and simple manner. I read this book about twice a year, because I learn something new or revisit concepts that I might have overlooked previously. It is clearly not just reading for when you go through tough times - its applicable to daily life. Pema's style is simple, clear and very human. We can all understand and relate to the teachings. It also provides us with an understanding of what we are going through and clear methods to deal with our situations and life.

For people who meditate - it is excellent reading. It gets you to understand what you go through when life is difficult, and how it is of great benefit along your path. It is like drinking a long cool glass of clear water on a warm day - clear and refreshing.

Its a great book to give as a gift. This book is a wonderful gift given to us by Pema Chodron.

If you can¥t swim, grab this lifebuoy!

February 19, 2000

Reviewer: desiree from Denmark

As this book has deeply touched my heart, so did the previous reviews. Yes, certainly one of the best books I ever read, too. Many of us go through changes, even chaos at certain times of our lives. Perhaps particularly after losing one or more of our loved ones -or in many other situations, too. What Pema Chˆdron says in this book, it not just useful. Far from being one of those silly "How-to" manuals, it is more like a friend! This is deep, rich, glowing wisdom, and it is given so warmheartedly that even when you feel the most lost, alone, it can give you support, comfort and practical advice on how to proceed. Particularly one phrase in the book struck me. Pema Chˆdron explains that when she first came to Gampo Abbey, she was going through a lot of emotional stuff, "It was like being boiled alive", she says. Now, just one phrase like that shows how willingly she shares her own experience; she is not somewhere "up there" telling everybody what to do. She is right there, on the spot - the hot spot! - with you. The first thing I did when I had finished the book, was to re-read it! (As I had already done with each chapter!). Recently, I have re-read it once more, only to find that there was a lot more for me to learn from it. Still looking forward to the next re-reading!

One in a Million

March 24, 2000

Reviewer: Kelly from Napa Velly, CA

I found this book at the library 4 days before my dad died and it illuminated all of my experiences before and after. Although I only read a few chapters it reasonated with truth, wisdom and honesty about the human condition. I bought the book and the tape version. I listen to it on my way to work. A wonderful resource for all times. You won't be sorry with this purchase.

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If you can¥t swim, grab this lifebuoy!	February 19, 2000
Reviewer: desiree from Denmark
As this book has deeply touched my heart, so did the previous reviews. Yes, certainly one of the best books I ever read, too. Many of us go through changes, even chaos at certain times of our lives. Perhaps particularly after losing one or more of our loved ones -or in many other situations, too. What Pema Chˆdron says in this book, it not just useful. Far from being one of those silly "How-to" manuals, it is more like a friend! This is deep, rich, glowing wisdom, and it is given so warmheartedly that even when you feel the most lost, alone, it can give you support, comfort and practical advice on how to proceed. Particularly one phrase in the book struck me. Pema Chˆdron explains that when she first came to Gampo Abbey, she was going through a lot of emotional stuff, "It was like being boiled alive", she says. Now, just one phrase like that shows how willingly she shares her own experience; she is not somewhere "up there" telling everybody what to do. She is right there, on the spot - the hot spot! - with you. The first thing I did when I had finished the book, was to re-read it! (As I had already done with each chapter!). Recently, I have re-read it once more, only to find that there was a lot more for me to learn from it. Still looking forward to the next re-reading!

One in a Million	March 24, 2000
Reviewer: Kelly from Napa Velly, CA
I found this book at the library 4 days before my dad died and it illuminated all of my experiences before and after. Although I only read a few chapters it reasonated with truth, wisdom and honesty about the human condition. I bought the book and the tape version. I listen to it on my way to work. A wonderful resource for all times. You won't be sorry with this purchase.