by Chogyam Trungpa
Shambhala Publications, Inc, $15.95, 218 pages
Editors Carolyn Gimian and Sherab Chödzin Kohn compiled talks given by Tibetan Buddhist master Chögyam Trungpa during the 1970s, shortly after his arrival in the United States, into a new book titled Work, Sex, Money: Real Life on the Path of Mindfulness. His teaching style is described as “wacky and wonderful” which shines through in this book. He presents the reader with a path toward spiritual growth by sharing unique insights on the common challenges of life: work, family, money, love, sex, relationships, and spiritual practice. Simply put by Chögyam Trungpa, “The path is also the goal.” The editor eloquently describes the challenge, “For like a bird with two wings, modern life must integrate the spiritual life with the life of every day.” One need not be a practicing Buddhist to gain insight and wisdom from this book. There are some passages that are difficult to follow, but truth and relevance still shine through. Those familiar with the teachings will find a wonderful and wacky lesson indeed. Footnotes provide definitions of Buddhist principles as well as context for some ideas presented, and a glossary helps to further the reader’s understanding of ideas.
Reviewed by Julie Finley