by Thomas E. Legere, Ph.D. Reviewed by Fredrica R. Halligan, Ph.D. |
Dr. Tom Legere has written a very comprehensive, articulate book of interest to the pastoral counselor and the spiritually-oriented mental health practitioner or trainee. The ideas are equally accessible to the intelligent layperson who has interest in the interface of psychology and spirituality. Written from a Christian (predominantly Catholic) perspective, this work is also open to the wisdom of other spiritual traditions, both eastern and western. Legere writes from many years’ experience as therapist and teacher. He draws on Jungian and Transpersonal approaches to psychology. Living An Authentic Life is a very genuine, personal statement of how to live with compassion and wisdom. Topics include many that we all struggle with in our attempts to live well: anger and forgiveness, sexuality and commitment, suicidal thoughts and grief over the death of a loved one, illness and equanimity, even transcendent bliss. These and many more of life’s challenges are addressed in a manner that is both psychologically sound and spiritually nourishing.
A reflective reader will find Living An Authentic Life to be a powerful tool to increase self-awareness and integrate the many disparate elements in one’s own life journey. Highly recommended. |