About the Book

A lifelong Emersonian scholar, teacher, and spiritual seeker reveals how American philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson’s twelve essential teachings hold the answer to living an authentic and fulfilling life, one that is in harmony with our souls.

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. In the following pages, you will discover:

• Why Emerson should be considered America’s original stoic
• How to dispel the illusion of our own powerlessness and turn toward boundless human potential
• Practical tools for cultivating happiness in a fragile, unpredictable, dangerous world
• The gifts of self-reliance and spiritual renewal necessary for thriving
• A roadmap to discovering essential wisdom on living an authentic and meaningful life

Emerson’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.

Product Details

• ISBN: 9780063059696
• ISBN 10: 006305969X
• Imprint: HarperOne
• On Sale: 06/13/2023
• Pages: 288
• List Price:35.99 CAD
• BISAC1 : PHILOSOPHY / Movements / Transcendentalism
• BISAC2 : PSYCHOLOGY: Essays
• BISAC3 : BODY, MIND & SPIRIT / Inspiration & Personal Growth
• BISAC4 : SELF-HELP / Personal Growth / Happiness

Mark Matousek

Biography

Mark Matousek is a bestselling author, teacher, and speaker whose work focuses on personal awakening and creative excellence through transformational writing and self-inquiry. His books include Sex Death Enlightenment: A True Story, The Boy He Left Behind, When You’re Falling, Dive, Ethical Wisdom: The Search for a Moral Life, Ethical Wisdom for Friends, Mother of the Unseen World, and Writing to Awaken: A Journey of Truth, Transformation, and Self-Discovery. His work has appeared in numerous anthologies and publications, including The New Yorker, O: The Oprah Magazine, Details, Tricycle, Good Housekeeping, and Harper’s Bazaar. He has blogged for Psychology Today and offers courses in creativity and spiritual growth around the world. In 2013, Mark founded The Seekers Forum, a global online community for non-sectarian spiritual dialogue. He is on the faculty of The New York Open Center, The Omega Institute, 1440, Esalen, The Rowe Center, Hollyhock, and Omega Blue Spirit, Costa Rica. He lives with his partner in Springs, New York.

Other Works by Mark Matousek

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  Lessons from an American Stoic

  By Mark Matousek