Title: A Year to Live
Author: Stephen Levine
Rating: 9/10
“Time. I’m running out of time! I can’t prioritize my time.”
Time is a big issue for many, and indeed for my clients.
In a seemingly effortless manner, Levine brings to light the many thoughts, musings and fears that have been swimming around in my head for the last few years now.
From this book, I was reminded that a big aspect of living consciously means being prepared/willing to die consciously too. This has been something I have thought about for a number of years, but have felt quite unsure of how to go about it.
Again, many conversations I wish I could have had with my mum (although I doubt that she would have entertained it as she was, for the most part, insistent that she was not going to die, yet). I guess this is also why in the future I feel drawn to working with the terminally ill – to better understand and eventually facilitate/hold space for the process of dying.
Cognitively, or let me rather say theoretically, I am not really afraid to die. I am however fearful of those left behind.
A Year to Live has reminded me of the magnificent importance of living mindfully – the last breath/first breath practice is a spectacular practice to deepen our awareness, presence and gratitude.
Levine has included a handful of powerful practices and meditations which I implemented into my own life and that have provided much to think about and explore internally and externally (namely with my partner).
This book is an absolute gem, and one that I will re-read in years to come. It has had such a powerful impact on my life that it is also a book I readily share with friends and clients.
Buy your copy here: https://tinyurl.com/y4y7ksxd
If you've read this book, are interested in talking about this book, or even about your relationship to time, please schedule a call with me. I'd love to hear your thoughts.