In The Deeper Path, Kary Oberbrunner challenges us to go where few people choose to go: pain. So often we are afraid of pain because of the discomfort and hurt it brings to our lives. However, if we do not face and embrace our pain, we cannot receive healing either. Oberbrunner invites us into his own story, one in which he tried to mask and diminish his pain through self-injury. Though he seemed to have it all together on the outside, his inner life was in turmoil. After sharing his story, Oberbrunner asks readers to consider their own. He explores five steps that go from questioning one's condition to embodying healing. Finally, he concludes with a challenge to live our personal opus, a life of purpose and art that transcends merely work and recreation. As we live our opus, it's hard to tell the difference between work and play as everything flows out of our very nature--who we are--with our souls ignited in passion. This is a fulfilling and whole life.
This book captivated me from the very beginning. As I started reading, it immediately reminded me of my own life experiences, friends, and people I am in relation with who NEED to read this book. It's a shame how time after time people miss out on healing and wholeness because they're constantly dismissing their pain instead of exploring it. This book is a challenge to stand and dig, instead of run away. It's a challenge to live life with purpose and meaning and a whole person, instead of merely getting by. For anyone who finds yourself aimless, constantly caught in drama or high emotional situations, or ever feeling like you're wearing a mask and others don't who you really are: READ THIS BOOK! As a pastor to young adults, I would especially recommend it to those who are in their twenties and early thirties. Let's find healing now so that we can have a full life ahead!
** I received a complementary copy of this work through Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.