BIG SUGAR & tiny spice

INTRODUCTION This book was a result of searching for my truth. In particular, more than a religion, a philosophy or credo. No, it was more about a search for something that could work for me, that could ground me, so to speak. Having written and published twenty one books of poetry and studied many religions and philosophies in my educational and personal endeavors, I know that I tend to get overly complicated and perhaps miss the Forrest for the trees on many matters. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Addiction Therapist for over 30 years, I have seen much and treated many individuals. I was in need of something different, something simple and practical. That’s when I discovered my first Zen book. Then a second and suddenly I started slowing me down. Started simplifying my being. Living in the here and now. I am very excited to offer this book of expounded musings, thoughts, prose or whatever you choose to call it from Buddhist principles that I have begun to start to understand. Now I’m not saying I have arrived, or even left, but I did write …. this. As with all of my books, I’m different, I like to have fun in word, hopefully teach something or even better, perhaps inspire. Nevertheless, I wrote a book and this book has 50 original drawings by Cat Mae Dela Cruz, an amazing young artist and poet. I also had an opportunity to discuss many of these Buddhist Principles and my corresponding musings with my amazing Muse, my writing partner, Gurjeet Kour. As a result of those conversations, I am all the more richer and I think that significantly adds to this book. So, with that being said, I invite the reader to enjoy this book which is published by Wildfire Publications. Special thanks to Susan Joyner Stumpf, my friend and publisher for doing the Foreword. It is a friendship that is endearing and I am grateful for input towards this book and others. Thank you, Susan. Robert Bradley, Jr., LCSW, LSATP Published Author & Family Therapist