The Gospels of Falling Down

Subtitled 'the beauty of failure in an age of success', this candid account of the author's journey reverberates with both pathos and relevance. Mark Townsend is both an Anglican priest and a member of the magic circle, an unusual mixture which is reflected in his presentation of both symbols and tricks. He warns us against the trap of perfection, reminding the reader that light shine through cracks in a pot and that the ego can never attain enlightenment. However, it is possible to open up a dialogue between the little self and the greater self, with surprising results. Most readers will have experienced and the spiritual journey of three steps forward and two steps back (if not the other way around!). It is also good to be reminded that Jesus's message was not about success but rather in getting up after one had fallen down, the paradox of losing oneself in order to find oneself. The book is a breath of fresh air.