3 out of 4 stars
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One with the Light: A Mystic’s Journey to the Light is a memoir written by Jerri Curry. In this book, the author shares a 75-year journey of integration of scientific, spiritual, and social aspects of life that move towards a higher and “collective compassionate consciousness” and being One with the Light in a state of grace. For Jerri, it has meant trusting in following her feet and allowing them to guide her at every step to where she belongs. According to her, it is important to be aware of the “oneness of humanity.” This dissolves fear and replaces it with love and an inclusive attitude.
The author believes in the power of intention and imagination to overcome problems and shares some of her real-life experiences on this subject. As a forensic psychologist, she encourages mindfulness and applies cognitive behavioral theory for control over one’s thoughts and behavior. Through a list of questions in some of the chapters, Jerri invites the reader to introspect and be open to change. It may involve speaking the truth to power. The questions of homeless people and the victims of abuse are very dear to her. Besides being convinced of the unity of humanity, Jerri shares her love for animals, especially puppies. She also believes in angels. She is open to the many dimensions of life.
When I began reading the book, I was quite irritated with the landscape view of the page set-up. It was very difficult to read the text, which is also quite dense and monotonous. This is what I most disliked about the work. I was skeptical and wondered whether the author was healthy in mind. From what she described about herself, she looked like an introvert who spoke about connectedness but was not social in her behavior. She seemed to be suffering from the ill effects of sexual abuse and needed inner healing. The contents of One with the Light came across as a mixture of esoteric ideas that constitute New Age eclectic spiritualities and relativism that waters down the Truth. I wondered whether her focus on “Oneness” was merely a form of nature mysticism that lacked depth. In spite of my deep respect for people in the variety of spiritual and religious traditions around the world, I could not assimilate her ideas on reincarnation and the narratives of her past-life experiences, which are contrary to the core aspects of my Christian faith. I did not enjoy Jerri’s preaching tone, and she seemed to have a misled consciousness.
However, as I read the second half of the book, I noticed the author’s ideas becoming coherent and more integrated with life. She seemed to have processed her past while pursuing her studies in psychology and was helping her clients to also be healed. Jerri seemed to have reconciled with her failed marital relationships in the past and was empowered to help others going through similar problems in life. She was serving the poor and marginalized of society. Jerri is a “wounded healer” who is able to understand her clients because of her own journey towards integration and healing. This is what I liked most about her memoir, and I feel happy for her.
With regard to the presentation, this book will benefit from a new layout and a round of editing. I found a few grammatical errors, but they were not distracting. After careful and critical analysis of the contents, I am inclined to rate this book 2.5 stars, but since this is not possible, I rate it 3 out of 4 stars. I recommend it to men and women who are mature and discerning. It may be appreciated by readers who can overlook some of the bizarre ideas and focus on the positive aspects.
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One with the Light
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Although, thank you for a great review and making through such a difficult to read book. I liked that you still found a positive sides of this book and that the memoir is written according to the author's own experience.
