In the Lap of the Buddha

by Gavin Harrison

In this book a teacher of insight meditation offers personal testament, healing words, and wise instruction to help meet the suffering that comes with catastrophic life events. Speaking openly about his own struggles with memories of childhood sexual abuse and with the HIV diagnosis he received in 1989, Gavin Harrison reveals how compassion offers refuge and help for all who suffer from similar crises of body, heart, and spirit. Among the topics covered Dealing with fear, anger, and self-hatred Working with difficult relationships. Confronting physical pain and the fear of death. Transforming the legacy of sexual abuse. The question of karma and "Why me" Grappling with issues of faith, freedom, hope, and miracles. Basic insight meditation instructions, plus guided meditations for forgiveness, compassion, and equanimity

Genres: Buddhism, Spirituality, Nonfiction

304 pages, Paperback

First published August 16, 1994

Reviews

[Ml Lalonde · Rating 3 out of 5]

I finished this book on World AIDS Day, which is rather auspicious, given that the author's diagnosis with HIV fuelled his interest in exploring suffering through meditation. Very accessible and practical tips.

[Annie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very useful to a meditation practice and not at all as hokey as the cover copy would have you believe.

[Amber Woodard · Rating 5 out of 5]

It will help you through all the hard times in life. Teaches you how to breathe and be comfortable in your skin.

[Mark · Rating 3 out of 5]

A lovely book covering all the basics of Buddhism.

[Taguk · Rating 5 out of 5]

Totally in love with this book and with the author.♥️ Does anybody know is he still alive or no?

[Sawyer Stewart · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gave me a new perspective!

[Sarah Stout · Rating 2 out of 5]

i REALLY wanted to love this book. there were parts that grabbed my attention & stuck with me, but overall i just could not get into it the way i wanted to. to tell you the truth, i didn’t even finish the book. i began to see reading this book as a *chore* & that is not the energy i want when reading any type of book. i would love more resources on buddhism because i am still interested in the culture / teachings / lifestyle of the buddhist people, but this book just didn’t totally do it for me.