Peace Promotions
Eyes Open, Eyes Closed
An Odyssey to Power & Peace
Practicing Karate and Meditation
A karate master evades an attacker and
quickly counters with a powerful punch.
A meditation master sits in silence and
follows the rhythm of the breath.
How can it be that both have a similar state of mind?
In Eyes Open, Eyes Closed, author Susie Joiner offers a chronicle of her tomboy youth, coming of age in California in the 70s, intense karate workouts, silent meditation retreats, and lessons from inspiring masters. From twenty-seven years of karate training and teaching, followed by a twenty-year meditation practice, she shares anecdotes and insights to describe the surprising similarities between the two arts, and the empowerment and equanimity she gained from both. For lay readers who are seeking life balance, and those who practice mindfulness, meditation, or martial arts, her odyssey offers reflection on the gifts from her practice, and how they sustain a sense of joy and optimism for life.
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"""The description of meditation practice is spot-on...and the insights are compelling and well-described. The author's progress and commitment to the journey come through clearly."
--Jeffrey C. Fracher, Ph.D, Insight Meditation Teacher and
author of Practical Dharma
"""The writing is crisp and well-done...expressing thoughts in a manner that is clear, often poetic, and engrossing."
--T.B. Hickson, author of The First Gingerbread House
Reader Comments
"""I was enthralled reading this narrative, and not disappointed. It prompted me to re-examine my own spiritual development and ongoing evolution."
--Greg Leonard, 4th Degree Black Belt and founding Chief Instructor of ASK of Napa
About the Author
About the Author
During her career teaching karate to children and adults, Joiner won two National Championship titles and earned the rank of Fifth Degree Black Belt and international judging credentials. Daily sitting in still silence is now a part of her long-term meditation practice. She lives in central Virginia with her husband and their cat, "Queen" Sissy.
After learning of the work of peace educator Paul K. Chappell several years ago, Joiner has followed developments with his programs for Peace Literacy through the non-profit Peace Literacy Institute (PLI). Net proceeds from the sale of her book are donated to PLI.
Author Statement
"Many people may see karate and meditation as polar opposites. But after decades of practicing both, I saw their similarities, and common misconceptions of each held by the general public. To offer a clear understanding of their true nature, I relate key aspects and events of my youth that drew me to karate, my later transition to a meditation practice, and the many benefits of both disciplines. Here is what I've learned of empowerment and equanimity from the fraternal twin spirit guides that have influenced my life: Shotokan karate and Insight Meditation."
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