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The Person in the Mirror

Education and the Search for Self and Meaning

George A Goens author

Format:Hardback

Publisher:Rowman & Littlefield

Published:3rd Oct '19

Currently unavailable, and unfortunately no date known when it will be back

The Person in the Mirror cover

Each individual is a unique person. In reality, education today should help students answer two fundamental life questions: Who am I? and Why am I here? Understanding who they are as individuals and what motivates them leads to a life of purpose and happiness. Without coming to grips with these questions, life can be vacant and void of meaning. A ‘good life’ is predicated, in part, on understanding these questions. These questions are fundamental and affect all aspects of life. Everyone must come to terms with them throughout each phase of life. They provide the foundation for introspection and understanding necessary to pursue a life of meaning. What kind of education do students need to begin to think about who they are and how they can find significance in their lives? Both are essential to enable a life of happiness, freedom, and success. To deal with inevitable change, each individual must have a sense of self and purpose.

In his latest book, The Person in the Mirror, Dr. George Goens reflects on how we make meaning of our life, the person we are and the purpose we serve. He expertly weaves the interplay between life experiences, key ideas of renowned authors and the impact of education on the shaping of our identity and sense of self. George argues for the values of integrity, honor, courage and principled living over a life that focuses on social media "likes", public acknowledgment, and crossing items off our bucket list. Throughout the book we get glimpses of the author's life and hard won wisdom about being true to self, punctuated by poetry and quotes that lift us up and carry us on our own journey of introspection. This is a timely and worthwhile read at a point in history when it seems we are all trying to make sense of what it means to live the "good life". -- Rachel Boechler, Leadership Consultant, Facilitator for the Center for Courage and Renewal
In The Person In The Mirror, Mr. Goens takes the reader on a journey of self-discovery. He inspires reflection upon one's own sense of "self" and provides insight into its formation. His thought provoking themes become a subtle internalized prod to strive to live life to the fullest. With examples of "self"-forming events from childhood through adulthood, he prompts the reader into examining his own life relative to the wisdom within these pages and to ponder how these offered insights might be applied to becoming a fulfilled self. -- Joanne Zanzal, Parent - Mother and Grandmother
To craft a more promising future we must be ready to confront the lack of ethical and principled leadership increasingly apparent in many sectors today. This essential preparation begins at home as we each grow into who we are and what we will stand for. This book is a must read for educators, leaders, and all who hope to contribute to a better world. -- John Tindall-Gibson, ALEP, former Superintendent of Schools

ISBN: 9781475847161

Dimensions: 225mm x 161mm x 20mm

Weight: 476g

192 pages