The Undefeated Mind

October 8, 2012
When life brings adversity such as profound loss or illness, we may sometimes feel defeated and powerless to change either the circumstance or our emotional response. Physician and blogger Lickerman tells us that things are only as bleak as they seem, and, using actual conversations with his patients, reveals the process of achieving an “inner life state” that mitigates suffering. More than presenting just a good theory or interesting stories, he interweaves compelling scientific research and core tenets of Nichiren Buddhism to flesh out this inner life state: nine central principles that moderate physical and emotional pain. The point of easing suffering is “not for solving problems but for establishing a life state that makes all problems solvable.” The interplay of dialogue, narrative, science, and faith flows effortlessly, interrupted only by thought-provoking observations such as “research suggests that the more we use our willpower, the weaker it becomes,” and “our expectations profoundly influence our responses to our experiences.” The principles are well constructed and the book well written; the author not only describes an undefeated mind but also teaches the thinking that yields one. Agent: Stephany Evans.