Chapter 1: The Controversial Journey of "Awareness"

Recently, I received a private message urging me to delve deeper into the book "Awareness" by Anthony (Tony) DeMello and explain why it deserves attention. After considering this feedback and exploring additional reviews, I've rewritten my thoughts on this significant work.

"Awareness" is one of the few books that I have read multiple times from start to finish. I first encountered it three decades ago, marking passages so extensively that it felt like I had dipped a paintbrush in yellow ink on nearly every page.

This book is a thoughtfully curated collection of DeMello's talks delivered during various retreats. After his passing in 1987, J. Francis Stroud, a close collaborator and Jesuit priest, took on the task of editing and publishing this compilation in 1990.

DeMello's discussions, ranging from casual conversations to formal presentations, examine how many individuals drift through life, oblivious to the societal norms that shape their existence. He argues that most people live in a state of unawareness, following the path laid out for them from birth to death—marrying, parenting, and choosing careers without ever waking up to their true selves.

As an Indian Jesuit priest, psychologist, teacher, and mystic, DeMello's insights often bore a distinct Buddhist influence while remaining rooted in his Catholic faith. Despite his loyalty to the church, many of his views clashed with its teachings. Notably, he recognized Jesus as an enlightened figure but did not view him as the sole enlightened teacher. In 2014, the Catholic church formally banned his writings, a prohibition that was lifted years later.

His editor aimed to capture the essence of DeMello's spirit—his love for people and unwavering commitment to truth—through this book. In my view, the effort was successful.

DeMello was a captivating storyteller, often illustrating his points with real-life anecdotes. For example, he once spoke to a woman frustrated by her marriage, whose priest suggested that love meant self-sacrifice. When he asked her if she wanted her husband to be unhappy for her sake, her answer was a resounding “Yes.” DeMello's witty response, “Delightful! You will love me at the cost of your happiness, and I would love you at the cost of my happiness, resulting in two unhappy people. Long live love!” succinctly encapsulated his perspective.

In "Awareness," DeMello equates love with freedom and challenges the conventional romantic notions we often accept. He posits that genuine love requires us to relinquish our dependency on others for happiness. Initially, his bold assertions may be jarring, but with introspection, one can uncover profound truths.

Despite his criticisms of certain Catholic doctrines, DeMello maintained a deep affection for the church, persevering through periods of exile, prohibition, and eventual reinstatement.

I found myself purchasing all of his published works; however, none resonate with me quite like "Awareness." The book stands out due to its portrayal of DeMello through the lens of someone who admired him deeply and worked tirelessly to encapsulate his extensive insights.

Another lesson from "Awareness" that has profoundly influenced me over the past thirty years is this: A woman lamented that her adult children rarely visited her, believing them to be selfish despite all she had done for them. DeMello suggested, “Have you considered that the height of selfishness is wanting someone to do something for you that they don’t want to do?” This reflection transformed my approach to parenting, friendships, and relationships.

Even after all these years, DeMello's writing continues to inspire and provoke thought. I hope that others can experience the same exhilaration from "Awareness" that I still do today. I would love to hear your insights in the comments, and I'm eager to explore your book recommendations that can further enhance my awareness.

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Chapter 2: The Ban and Reinstatement of DeMello’s Work

The first video titled "UNBELIEVABLE. Teacher Reacts | Banned Book Week 2024, Moms for Liberty & Florida" examines the circumstances surrounding the banning and subsequent reinstatement of works like DeMello's, providing a broader context for the ongoing discussions about literature and censorship.

In addition, the video "My book was BANNED - YouTube" shares personal stories and reflections on the impact of book bans, highlighting the importance of access to diverse viewpoints in literature.