Longing for Alignment

by T. Thomas Cheng

From the bustling streets of Hong Kong to the vibrancy of Chicago, Daniel struggles in his quest to find his destiny; caught between the fervent dreams and aspirations of his youth and the eroded passion of his adult reality. His journey is highlighted by an overpowering sentimental attachment to a cross-cultural affection --- one that has both haunted and shaped his entire life. The promise of young love and the perpetual longing for natural alignment. As Daniel moves along the continuum of time, he is pushed and pulled by characters who come in and out of his life --- some lifelong and intimate, some accidental and fleeting. He confronts and embraces the challenges of a foreigner, deeply assimilating while retaining the nostalgia of home and the past. Heartwarming and heartbreaking, the author delivers a tale of relentless and unforgiving longing, weighty regrets, and a long, enduring search for closure.

290 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 20, 2022

Reviews

[Brian Ling · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book illuminates for the reader the feelings and thoughts that are otherwise hard to articulate when searching for “alignment.” It highlights the constant tension between the stability of a day to day routine and the thrill of something bigger, between one’s own agency and external circumstance, and the pursuit of some solace amongst it all. This book captures a very human feeling and is a worthwhile read.

[Marcie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Longing for Alignment is about Daniel, a Chinese immigrant who is caught between his dreamer self when he was younger and the stark reality of his adult life. He also struggles with assimilating to American culture while still staying true to his roots.

Ultimately this is a book that explores the challenges we face in finding alignment between our thoughts, actions, and beliefs.

I highly recommend if you’re looking for a thought provoking and heartbreaking read about finding inner peace and fulfillment in life.

[Caroline · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful story that went straight to the heart. It explores the universal feelings and emotions that we all experience as we move through life, connect with others, and face our inner selves. Definitely would recommend.