Up In The Hollow: from ancestors to continuations, special edition

In this "Special Edition" of Up In The Hollow, a larger format allows additional material and more of a 'coffee table' feel. Contents are generally the same as the soft and hard cover which are replaced by this edition.Who holds fast the dharma of hope in a world on fire? Anyone who has ever experienced life out of control can identify with these pages. Even when we think we are doing well holding up the horizon, the weight of the world is upon us. Whatever burdens there may be, they are really opportunities, and best shared in an effort to spare others the suffering.This hopeful book covers nearly eight decades of such a journey, one begun very much in unknowing and ending in a serene mindfulness. Beginning as a youth with some sense of privilege despite the economically impoverished environment of the northernmost edge of Appalachia, losing both parents early on, transforming a soul-destroying adolescence, reconciling college, marriage and then divorce, growing a successful business, changing careers, and parenting successful children; these are the exploits of a normal guy having extraordinary experiences.Engaging and interesting truths spoken by this almost 75 year old ordained lay Buddhist and shamanist, who once believed that if he were not living on the edge, he was taking up too much room, Up In The Hollow presents almost (S)mythic tales of recklessness and redemption, of spiritual emptiness and enlightened fulfillment, confessional but instructional a compass as any seeker can use.After a detour to the ' other shore ' at age 72 with coronary artery disease, this contemplative psychotherapist well known for teaching others begins his leave-taking from the Enchanted Mountains region of southwestern New York State, a charmed youth on a journey both literal and figurative. An early poetic interest in finding meaning and purpose sparked a lifelong quest for inner and outer peace -- in retrospect -- profoundly influenced by Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Rev. Dr. M.L.King, and Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh. In the end, Smith's journey paints signposts to the discovering of self and its dismantling, grasping success and humble ego-deflation, and selfless service to and compassion toward others. Along the way, he finds sitting and walking in meditation with Jon Kabat-Zin, His Holiness The Dalai Lama, and his teacher Nhat Hanh, so many give guidance and support along the path.Once noted for teaching "how to make an angry dog smile," this poet teacher father grandfather model train builder gardener woodworker who grew up without his parents chronicles a life story full of remarkable and unremarkable, planned and unplanned exploits. . .everything is just the way it is supposed to be after all.These stories are a wonderfully thoughtful gift -- the gift, giver, and receiver one in the same -- and prompted by over 104 questions his adult children posed to him in 2025, the author's response continues that generosity of support and spirit to any who read these words. If you read one biography this year, read this one.As a friend and reader said, "you can't make this stuff up." "This tale is a blessing to finally hear!" A well written memoir -- just don't read between the lines! The silence can be deafening" Read more