Breaking the Drought: Visions of Grace

by Stephen Levine

Levine's wit, wisdom, and untamed heart at their best. This delightful book celebrates the long-awaited return to poetry (after 40 years) of the beloved author/teacher, acclaimed worldwide for his work with the terminally ill. It teems with life and timelessness―ranging from hope to awe to gratefulness to wonder and pathos, with skillful evocations of Basho, Lorca, and Rilke.

Genres: Poetry

152 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 2007

About the author

Stephen Levine was an American poet, author, and spiritual teacher best known for his groundbreaking work on death, dying, and grief. A central figure in the conscious dying movement, he helped bring Theravāda Buddhist teachings to Western audiences, alongside contemporaries like Jack Kornfield and Sharon Salzberg. His work, however, was uniquely shaped by devotional practices drawn from Bhakti Yoga and his spiritual connection to Neem Karoli Baba, blending Buddhist insight with heart-centered mysticism.
With his wife Ondrea, Stephen spent over three decades offering workshops, counseling, and writings that supported the terminally ill, trauma survivors, and caregivers. Their book Who Dies? remains a foundational text in end-of-life care. Levine’s teachings also explored “everyday grief”—the quiet accumulation of life’s disappointments—and emphasized the healing power of mindfulness and compassion.
A former heroin addict who transformed his life through spiritual practice, Stephen lived his final years in quiet seclusion in New Mexico. He passed away in 2016, leaving behind a legacy of deep insight and loving presence that continues to influence seekers, caregivers, and teachers around the world.

Reviews

[Gary · Rating 5 out of 5]

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