This Above All: A Journey of Self-Discovery

by Tess Hughes

This beautifully organized book is about the writer’s spiritual voyage, all the way to its ultimate unfolding– an end to her suffering. Throughout her story, this writer is profoundly generous, holding nothing back. She welcomes readers into a journey so sensitive, so private, that at times it feels like we shouldn’t be there; her feelings, fears, revelations, struggles, joys, confusion, delight, reflections, courage, tenacity—are all laid out in these pages so that someone else might benefit. The serious seeker will find this book, and the depth of this writer’s generosity, refreshing and uplifting. Tess not only openly reveals her own path, but continually supports and encourages ours. It is a rare read.

Genres: Spirituality

Audible Audio

Published December 29, 2024

Reviews

[Niamh · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an inspiring and wonderful book. Tess, when she was a spiritual seeker, was one-pointed, determined and courageous in her quest to face her biggest fear - her own death - which ultimately leads to her realization of her true self. The story unfolds around the structure of the ten ox-herding pictures of the Zen tradition which give the narrative a clearly defined movement and neatly, as well as meaningfully, places the story in the bigger context of the universal search for our true nature. Tess is candid and uncompromising in her style of spiritual seeking and in the writing of this book also. No stone is left unturned and her integrity and honesty shine through. The chapters are dotted with references to the most important of the innumerable books she 'devoured' on her way and there are pointers throughout to the potential pitfalls and the milestones on the path. She is very eclectic in her references and doesn't favor one tradition over another, drawing out gems from many wisdom traditions and the writings of those who have traveled the path before her and left pointers. She particularly seeks out the writings of women authors which was really inspiring and refreshing for me.
Her actual story of self realization is a real cracker - there are visions, guides, terrors and strange phenomena, but the utter ordinariness of the everyday realm of family, health concerns and practical affairs means the story stays firmly grounded in the real life of a woman in 21st century Ireland.
This is the take-home message of the book actually, enlightenment, true peace and authentic being are the birthright of all people, not just some special one from 2000 or 5000 years ago, but here and now if you are willing to answer the call to look deeper and uncover the true nature of reality.

[Miriam · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have the pleasure of being able to call Tess a friend - not only a friend, but since meeting Tess she has helped illuminate the possibility of what I too can realise in this life. Hearing Tess's story, seeing how she lives her life, receiving her support in whatever way possible and now reading her words in print really has been the greatest gift I've received to date. Tess essentially is no different to me or you - a woman who had a quest but one difference to date between me and her is the fulfillment/completion or realisation of her quest. Her story documented in this book details what she did along her life's journey, her commitment and dedication to find out for herself and to develop trust with the inner teacher which was guiding her home.

Obviously my review is biased...I know Tess and know what she means to me, but maybe, just maybe my recognition of the Truth that I hear from Tess may be enough to make another potential reader curious. This book is an honest account of Self Discovery - to have made this journey in the manner she did inspires me beyond words!

[Fajriy · Rating 3 out of 5]

An easy, inspiring spiritual journey read.

Though this book is not so thought provoking as I expected, this book gives us knowledge of stages of a spiritual journey. This book is also written in a way that makes it easy to follow. I also like the metaphors used by the author to try explaining her experiences as well as many book recommendations on this subject along the way.

**I voluntarily read and review a free copy of this book provided by the author.**

[Benedict James · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has been one of my primary guides of recent years. I think I relate to Tess and her Catholic upbringing and the nature of inquiry she undertook. It’s a brilliant account of the spiritual path, with such depth and insight that I can highly recommend it to any serious seeker of truth.

[Gwen · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is a thought provoking book, just not provoking my thoughts in the way I feel they should go.

I received this book free from Goodreads First Reads.

[Greg Davies · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the story of Tess's journey of self discovery. An honest account of her life and spiritual seeking; she tells us of her journey from a student to teacher in her stages of spiritual development. It is a fascinating insight into the life of a person dedicated to knowing the truth.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I won this book through Goodreads. Very inspiring and thought provoking read. Very easy to read and enjoyable.