Book Review: The Art of Coexistence by Ilchi Lee with Steve Kim

The message is simple and direct. In this latest book, by author and educator, Ilchi Lee with Steve Kim, the authors illustrate how the fundamental idea of coexistence is possible. Ilchi Lee started the Earth Citizens movement 20yrs ago. The Korean educator moved to the U.S and developed the Brain Education training method. Steve Kim is the executive director of the nonprofit Earth Citizens Organization (ECO).

The book makes you wonder “What if we could really live this way?” The essence of the book is that all life is interconnected and this includes the planet. Not only does the book ask important questions, it provides answers and possible solutions. Drawing on various illustrations from the pandemic, biology, history and personal experience, the key message is that coexistence is not an option but a necessity. Coexistence will allow us not only to move forward in a positive direction, but to survive.

Throughout the book the theme of connection is highlighted. The modern phenomenon of loneliness is discussed as a example of disconnection. Everything we need to make a difference is already inside each one of us. We are directed to tap into our own personal strength. Lee is a man who believes that each one of us has a great soul inside of us. Through the qualities in human nature, which are already present, such as: mindfulness, being conscious, and empathy, we can move forward. Everything starts with our intention.

John Lennon in his song “Imagine” got us thinking that only dreamers think about these things. However, Lee and Kim offer practical solutions for peaceful coexistence. In the section: The Way Forward, there is a blue print for how we can move forward together. For example, an engaged education system is a priority as well as other alternatives. Making a connection is a way to give to give strength to one another. We are the change and can make harmonious coexistence possible. Without hope, Pandora’s box would remain empty.

This book is a beautiful, and hopeful blue print for intentional living, and a mindful guide for those who want to be the change to make harmonious coexistence possible.