Emerson the Stoics and Me : Timeless Wisdom for Living an Authentic Life

Ralph Waldo Emerson was a spiritual revolutionary whose profound vision of human potential came to define the American character. Known as America’s original Stoic he offered a radical message of optimism authenticity and self-realization that is more necessary today than ever.In this timely remarkable book noted memoirist and teacher Mark Matousek reveals the depths of Emerson’s extraordinary wisdom demonstrating how his timeless philosophy can help us navigate the challenges of contemporary life. Using personal stories psychological research and life lessons from Emerson and his contemporaries —including Thoreau and Whitman—he offers practical lessons in the art of living.They include:ON ORIGINALITY—Character is everythingON PERSPECTIVE—You are how you seeON NONCONFORMITY—Build your own worldON RESILIENCE—Without confidence the universe is against youON VITALITY—A stream of power runs through youAnd moreEmerson’s far-reaching vision of excellence and spiritual flourishing is the medicine we need to heal ourselves. “Trust yourself” he teaches. “Once you make a decision the universe conspires to make it happen.” This philosophy of hope known as transcendentalism is the vein of gold in the American psyche. Lessons from an American Stoic helps us to reclaim our national treasure.