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Breathing Under Water summary
Brief summary
Breathing Under Water by Richard Rohr is a spiritual guide to facing our own brokenness and finding healing through the wisdom of the Twelve Steps and the Christian tradition. It offers a fresh perspective on addiction and recovery.
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Breathing Under Water
Summary of key ideas
Understanding Addiction through Spirituality
In Breathing Under Water by Richard Rohr, we delve into the concept of addiction, not just in the conventional sense of substance abuse, but as a universal human condition. Rohr draws parallels between the twelve-step program of Alcoholics Anonymous and the teachings of Jesus, arguing that both offer a path towards spiritual growth and freedom from our addictive patterns.
Rohr begins by exploring the concept of original sin, suggesting that it is not just about our individual wrongdoings, but rather a shared human condition of being addicted to our own way of thinking and living. He believes that this addiction to our own will is the root cause of most human suffering, and that recognizing and accepting this addiction is the first step towards healing and transformation.
Accepting Our Brokenness
Rohr emphasizes the importance of embracing our brokenness and acknowledging our powerlessness. He explains that only when we stop trying to control everything and accept our limitations, can we open ourselves up to a higher power and start the journey towards healing.
He also discusses the idea of the false self, which is the image we create to present to the world, and the true self, which is our authentic and vulnerable core. Rohr argues that our addictive behaviors stem from our attachment to this false self, and that true freedom comes from letting go of this facade and embracing our vulnerability.
Transformation through Surrender
In the second part of Breathing Under Water, Rohr explores the rest of the twelve-step program, focusing on the concepts of surrender, self-examination, and making amends. He explains that surrender is not a sign of weakness, but rather a courageous act of letting go of our ego and trusting in a higher power.
Rohr also emphasizes the importance of self-examination, suggesting that we need to take a fearless moral inventory of ourselves and acknowledge our shortcomings. He believes that this process of self-awareness is crucial for personal growth and transformation.
Living in Grace and Gratitude
In the final part of the book, Rohr discusses the concept of grace, which he describes as God's unconditional love and acceptance. He argues that when we surrender to this grace, we can let go of our need for control and find peace in the midst of life's challenges.
Rohr concludes by emphasizing the importance of living in gratitude, suggesting that when we acknowledge the grace that surrounds us, we can find joy and contentment in every moment, regardless of our circumstances.
Embracing Our Vulnerability
In Breathing Under Water, Richard Rohr presents a powerful and insightful perspective on addiction and spirituality. He invites us to embrace our vulnerability, let go of our need for control, and surrender to a higher power. Through this process, he believes that we can find freedom from our addictive patterns and live more authentic, fulfilling lives.
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What is Breathing Under Water about?
Breathing Under Water by Richard Rohr delves into the concept of spirituality and the Twelve Steps program. The book explores how embracing our flaws and vulnerabilities can lead to spiritual growth and inner healing. It offers a unique perspective on addiction and recovery, encouraging readers to find compassion and understanding for themselves and others.
Breathing Under Water Review
Breathing Under Water: Spirituality and the Twelve Steps by Richard Rohr (2011) delves into the intersection of spirituality and addiction recovery, offering profound insights for personal growth. Here's why this book stands out:
- It explores the Twelve Steps with deep spiritual wisdom and insights, making it a powerful resource for individuals seeking healing and transformation.
- The book provides a unique perspective on addiction and recovery, blending spirituality with practical guidance for navigating life's challenges.
- With its compelling narrative and compassionate approach, it sheds light on the path to self-discovery and inner peace, ensuring a captivating read.
Who should read Breathing Under Water?
Individuals struggling with addiction and seeking spiritual guidance
People interested in exploring the intersection of psychology and spirituality
Readers looking for a compassionate and non-judgmental approach to personal growth and healing
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Breathing Under Water FAQs
What is the main message of Breathing Under Water?
The main message of Breathing Under Water is embracing spirituality to heal addiction and find wholeness.
How long does it take to read Breathing Under Water?
The estimated reading time for Breathing Under Water is moderate. The Blinkist summary can be read quickly.
Is Breathing Under Water a good book? Is it worth reading?
Breathing Under Water is worth reading for its profound insights on spirituality and addiction recovery.
Who is the author of Breathing Under Water?
The author of Breathing Under Water is Richard Rohr.
What to read after Breathing Under Water?
If you're wondering what to read next after Breathing Under Water, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Eating Animals by Jonathan Safran Foer
- Fast Food Nation by Eric Schlosser
- Why We Get Fat by Gary Taubes
- The Omnivore's Dilemma by Michael Pollan
- Savor by Thich Nhat Hanh and Lilian Cheung
- Eat to Live by Joel Fuhrman
- Nutrition and Physical Degeneration by Weston A. Price
- Salt Sugar Fat by Michael Moss
- Mindless Eating by Brian Wansink
- The Twenty-four Hour Mind by Rosalind D. Cartwright