Winner of the 2014 Silver Independent Publisher Book Award in the relationship category and winner of the Spirituality and Practice Award as one of the best spiritual books of 2013!

The search for inner peace is often met with what seems like a conflicting path—the irresistible pull of love and connection with others. Spiritual practice and loving connection with others can seem at cross-purposes.

Reconciling these opposites, John Amodeo shows how spirituality and vibrant relationships are identical. He says that the Buddha’s concept of the root of suffering is misunderstood. It is not desire that causes suffering; desire is the fire that springs from the basic life force. Drawing on the science of attachment theory, Amodeo illuminates how the root of our suffering is caused by disconnection from ourselves and others, which is fueled by clinging to what doesn't serve us.In a conversational tone, Amodeo presents relationships as sacred experiences. He teaches how to welcome desire mindfully rather than suppress it and how to overcome fear of failure in relating. He also discusses meditation as self-intimacy and holding ourselves with loving-kindness. Lastly, he explores the role of community in spiritual awakening and the issue of whom to trust—our guru or ourselves?

John Amodeo, PhD, is author of The Authentic Heart and Love and Betrayal. A licensed marriage and family therapist for decades, he has been engaged in Buddhism and studied spiritual wisdom for over 45 years. He lectures internationally on love and relationships and has been a guest on CNN and CNBC. Also a Focusing Trainer, he was a contributing editor for Yoga Journal. See www.johnamodeo.com.