In this brilliant work, Chandra Easton hands us the key that unlocks each verse of the 21 Homages to Tara (a traditional prayer in Tibetan Buddhism to the female Bodhisattva Tara; the most popular prayer to Tara in Tibetan Buddhism). The teachings are down to earth and easy to understand. The instructions for each guided meditation are clearly written and powerful. The journal prompts are profound jumping-off points to integrate more of Tara's wisdom and compassion into your daily life.
For further inspiration, Ms. Easton brings women from various walks of life who embody the power of each Tara. Jane Goodall, Oprah Winfrey, as well as movements such as Black Lives Matter and Me, too, show how the power of Tara can manifest in people's lives.
Tara is my Yidam (Goddess), yet I didn't feel like I knew her. The 21 Taras are often enigmatic and don't provide enough information about who they are. My past practice was to light a candle and chant the Homage to the 21 Taras. It was okay and made manifesting things easier, but I yearned for more. I was looking for a much more intimate understanding of Tara. I expressed this desire in my latest practice to her, then forgot about it.
A few days later, this book appeared on my Facebook feed. I realized that it was perfect for what I needed. I began the first practice on the new moon, beginning with the first Tara, and continued for the next 21 days. So far, it's had a profound affect on me. The peace and compassion, as well as fierceness, I have accessed within my own psyche since I began practicing, have been amazing.
This is a book I will use forever.
~review by Patricia Snodgrass
Author: Chandra Easton
Shambala Publications, 2023
p. $22.95, pp. 353
