Why on Earth?: Biography and the Practice of Human Becoming

Excellent book about Rudolf Steiner’s philosophy of human biography! Lots of “aha” moments for the soul.

Great translation of a lot of Rudolf Steiner's work: the temperments, the patterns of 7 year cycles. I really am enjoying it. Thanks so much

Content was reader friendly and accessible. She certainly does come--honestly and openly--from her feminine perspective and life experience.

What an eloquent manual to living life with soulful insight, and spirited reflection! Ms. Schaefer has distilled years of working with Anthroposophy, which she defines as “the human being coming to wisdom”, rather than the more conventional definition” wisdom of the human being”. Her definition, of being in dynamic process, is demonstrated throughout the book, as she illumines the many ripenings we as human beings go through in our growth to become wise.Towards the end of this marvelous and informative guide, Ms. Schaefer shares a description of her imaginary “ Inner Gym”, a place to drop in and enliven the activity of the body, soul and spirit. If such a gymnasium existed, this book would be readily available as a soul primer (although it is more sophisticated than that word suggests), providing exercises to bring awareness to such areas as life cycles, temperament, inner life --and more. In fact, the book itself helps guides the reader to create our own inner gym. Highly recommended!

Anyone seeking to follow the Delphic injunction to "know thyself" will benefit greatly from this lyrical, practical book. In a tone that is conversational, compassionate, and deeply personal, Schaefer poses far-reaching and difficult questions, and provides experienced guidance on the path to self and higher Self discovery. Based in Rudolf Steiner's view of the human being as a being with spirit, soul, life-force and physical aspects, the book addresses the study of biogragraphy as a way of discovering and exploring the intentions of the higher Self when coming into a body, coming to earth. Why am I here? at this time? in this particular set of circumstances? How are these experiences and relationships leading me toward wholeness? This is a thoughtful and thought-provoking book from which everyone will benefit.

This book is a valuable resource for those interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the 7-year phases of life. The author provides suggested exercises and personal anecdotes to illustrate how an understanding of these phases can help one become more conscious of the unique "spiritual intention" that weaves its way like a thread through each individual life. The book is refreshingly straightforward in its approach and offers spiritual wisdom without being prescriptive. Readers from all spiritual paths (or who don't identify with any particular path) will find much of value here.