The Places That Scare You (Shambhala Library)

by Pema Chodron and Tami Simon

[brokentune]

4.5*

"We cling to a fixed idea of who we are and it cripples us. Nothing and no one is fixed. Whether the reality of change is a source of freedom for us or a source of horrific anxiety makes a significant difference. Do the days of our lives add up to further suffering or to increased capacity for joy? That’s an important question."

Not much to say about this one: Pema has a great way of explaining concepts relating to meditation, but I would not recommend this book to someone who is new to Buddhism or meditation practice. If anything, this book is a good accompaniment but it does require some familiarity with terms and concepts.

Nevertheless, a thoughtful compilation of stories and advice which invites readers and practitioners to question everything.