WALKING THE TIGER’S PATH: A Soldier’s Spiritual Journey in Iraq by Paul M. Kendel (Tendril Press, 2011)
Addressing the horrors of war from an extraordinary human perspective, SSG. Kendel did not lose his compassion in the face of grave risk, nor did he endanger fellow soldiers while he remained true to himself—rare feats in our violent world.
Sergeant Kendel has shown great conviction while faced with the brutality of human aggression, constantly using compassion and a meditative mind. He was therefore on the front line of applying contemplative discipline. This book reveals that extraordinary journey.
–Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche, author of Turning Your Mind into an Ally and Ruling Your World
Amid the chaos and horror of war, this soldier has discovered a profound truth: if we want suffering to lessen, the first step is learning that keeping the cycle of aggression going doesn’t help.
–From Practicing Peace in Times of War, Pema Chodron
…Whether you’re about to deploy to a foreign country or are simply searching for real tools to deal with fear, anger, and violence within and around you, this book provides a vivid and courageous guide to changing your world.
–Susan Piver, author of The Wisdom of a Broken Heart
I found SSG. Kendel’s descriptions of his actions on the ground, as well as his moral choices, very compelling. I am attempting to avoid the word “heroic” because I am sure he would reject it, but to me, his decisions of when to fire and when not to fire were heroic in the truest sense. To maintain sanity in the context of insanity is heroic. I am honored to recommend SSG. Kendel’s book.
–Khadro Chagdud, author and spiritual director of Chagdud Gonpa Centers in South America
Paul M. Kendel (SSG. Retired) deployed with his National Guard unit out of Georgia to Iraq in 2005, hoping to use his knowledge of the Middle East to bridge the gap between American soldiers and Iraqi civilians. However, the realities of war quickly challenged his idealism. On a whim, he emailed the Shambhala Buddhist community, finding unexpected guidance in retaining his humanity and compassion as he faced the lethal insanity of war.