Lessons from an American Stoic: How Emerson Can Change Your Life

(Hardback)

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A lifelong Emerson lover, teacher, and spiritual seeker reveals how American philosopher Ralph Waldo Emersons twelve essential teachings hold the answer to living an authentic and fulfilling life, one that is in harmony with our souls.

Ralph Waldo Emerson was a spiritual revolutionary whose profound vision of human potential came to define the American character. Known as Americas original Stoic, he offered a radical message of optimism, authenticity, and self-realization that is more necessary today than ever.

In this timely, remarkable book, noted memoirist and teacher Mark Matousek reveals the depths of Emersons extraordinary wisdom, demonstrating how his timeless philosophy can help us navigate the challenges of contemporary life. Using personal stories, psychological research, and life lessons from Emerson and his contemporariesincluding Thoreau and Whitman he offers practical lessons in the art of living. In the following pages, you will discover:

• Why Emerson should be considered Americas original stoic
• How to dispel the illusion of our own powerlessness and turn toward boundless human potential
• Practical tools for cultivating happiness in a fragile, unpredictable, dangerous world
• The gifts of self-reliance and spiritual renewal necessary for thriving
• A roadmap to discovering essential wisdom on living an authentic and meaningful life

Emersons far-reaching vision of excellence and spiritual flourishing is the medicine we need to heal ourselves. Trust yourself, he teaches. Once you make a decision, the universe conspires to make it happen. This philosophy of hope, known as transcendentalism, is the vein of gold in the American psyche. Lessons from an American Stoic helps us to reclaim our national treasure.

Reviews

"InLessons from an American Stoic,Matousek is more than an outstanding biographer of the legendary Emerson. He joins the lineage of Emerson by adding his own hard-earned wisdom and care. In translating Emersons insights to our modern world, Mark has done a great service for the soul of America. This is a great book. It will open your heart, expand your mind, and help you live more truly, more fully, and more lovingly." Mark Nepo, author ofThe Half-Life of AngelsandFalling Down and Getting Up "Those looking for commonsense guidance to a more self-directed life will find it here." Publishers Weekly

Author Bio

Mark Matousek (New York City) is the author of two award-winning memoirs, SEX DEATH ENLIGHTENMENT: A TRUE STORY and THE BOY HE LEFT BEHIND: A MAN'S SEARCH FOR HIS LOST FATHER as well as WHEN YOU'RE FALLING, DIVE: LESSONS IN THE ART OF LIVING. A popular lecturer and writing teacher, he is the creative director of V-Men (with Eve Ensler), an organisation devoted to ending violence against women and girls.