Strength in the Storm: Creating Calm in Difficult Times - Easwaran, Eknath. Nilgiri Press, 2005. 183p. $14.00, Paperback. ISBN-10: 1-586380176. 248.4 Meditation. Mysticism. Spirituality.

The intended readership for this book is wide—Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist, or Hindu. The late Indian professor Eknath Easwaran spent over 40 years teaching that we cannot control what life sends us, but we can control how we respond to stress and frustration. Easwaran suggests using a mantram, a word or short phrase you can repeat silently to yourself to help you cope with stress. It is a powerful way to calm and steady the mind.

For example, a mantram for a Christian would be “Lord, Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on us.” In the Jewish tradition, it might be “Barukh attah Adonai” (Blessed are thou, O Lord).”

Each chapter contains three sections. First is an introduction about the problems and challenges that all of us face today. The main part is an article that presents a key idea, with sidebars illustrating how others have applied Easwaran’s teachings successfully. Then comes a workbook section with “Points to Practice,” containing suggested activities and inspirational passages of prose or poetry.

Monica Tenney
C&SL Media Review Editor
Maple Grove United Methodist Church
Columbus, Ohio