This book is an in-depth examination of the much needed process of “self”-study known as self observation. Only when we “Know Thyself” through self observation practice, says the author, are we capable of being present to life with genuine conscience. The methods presented here are capable of restoring an individual’s ability to pay attention to a fully functional and powerful tool for success in life and relationships. No other book on the market examines this practice in such detail. There are hundreds of books on self-help and meditation, but almost none on self-study via self-observation, and none with the depth of analysis, wealth of explication, and richness of experience which this book offers.

Red Hawk, author of 5 collections of poetry, was the Hodder Fellow at Princeton University (1992-93) and is currently a full professor at the University of Arkansas, Monticello. He has practiced self-observation for over 30 years, under the guidance of the Gurdjieff Society of Arkansas, meditation master Osho Rajneesh, and spiritual teacher, Lee Lozowick.

“Self-observation is a key aspect of Fourth Way practice that merits the focused attention it receives in this beautifully concise and readable volume. Red Hawk writes about Self-observation with the unmistakable voice of unforced authority, which is available only through long experience of deep, persistent and productive cultivation. Both experienced practitioners of Self-observation and other forms of witnessing meditation, as well as neophytes to rigorous self-exploration, will find rich food in this unique contribution to Fourth Way literature. Self Observation:The Awakening of Conscience offers both inspiration and excellent practical direction. I heartily recommend it.” – Robert A. Schmidt, Ph.D., Spiritual Director, Tayu Meditation Center; editor, Archaeologies of Sexuality

“Red Hawk speaks the truth in Self-Observation -- The Awakening of Conscience. He speaks so eloquently of the process of awakening and the power of self-observation that I wish I'd had this book available when I first began to work with groups. There is no better dissertation on the subject on the book market -- follow his indications and you are bound to succeed.” – E.J. Gold

 

Since my entering the Gurdjieff Groups in Paris as a young man sixty years ago, I have read, in French and in English, numerous books about self-observation, self-awareness and self-remembering. It was my happy surprise to discover in Red Hawk’s book important ideas that I had not found elsewhere or, at least not so convincingly expressed. Many spiritual books are interesting, few are truly helpful. This one is precious indeed.

– Arnaud Desjardins, eminent spiritual teacher based in Hauteville, France; author of numerous books, including The Jump into Life and Toward the Fullness of Life; studied with Madame Jeanne de Salzmann (1950-1965).