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Be Water, My Friend: The Teachings of Bruce Lee
Bruce Lee’s daughter illuminates her father’s most powerful life philosophies―demonstrating how martial arts are a perfect metaphor for personal growth, and how we can practice those teachings every day.
"Empty your mind; be formless, shapeless like water."
Bruce Lee is a cultural icon, renowned the world over for his martial arts and film legacy. But Lee was also a deeply philosophical thinker, learning at an early age that martial arts are more than just an exercise in physical discipline―they are an apt metaphor for living a fully realized life.
Now, in Be Water, My Friend , Lee’s daughter Shannon shares the concepts at the core of his philosophies, showing how they can serve as tools of personal growth and self-actualization. Each chapter brings a lesson from Bruce Lee’s teachings, expanding on the foundation of his iconic “be water” philosophy. Over the course of the book, we discover how being like water allows us to embody fluidity and naturalness in life, bringing us closer to our essential flowing nature and our ability to be powerful, self-expressed, and free.
Through previously untold stories from her father’s life and from her own journey in embodying these lessons, Shannon presents these philosophies in tangible, accessible ways. With Bruce Lee’s words as a guide, she encourages readers to pursue their essential selves and apply these ideas and practices to their everyday lives―whether in learning new things, overcoming obstacles, or ultimately finding their true path.
Be Water, My Friend is an inspirational invitation to us all, a gentle call to action to consider our lives with new eyes. It is also a testament to how one man's exploration and determination transcended time and place to ignite our imaginations―and to inspire many around the world to transform their lives.
"Empty your mind; be formless, shapeless like water."
Bruce Lee is a cultural icon, renowned the world over for his martial arts and film legacy. But Lee was also a deeply philosophical thinker, learning at an early age that martial arts are more than just an exercise in physical discipline―they are an apt metaphor for living a fully realized life.
Now, in Be Water, My Friend , Lee’s daughter Shannon shares the concepts at the core of his philosophies, showing how they can serve as tools of personal growth and self-actualization. Each chapter brings a lesson from Bruce Lee’s teachings, expanding on the foundation of his iconic “be water” philosophy. Over the course of the book, we discover how being like water allows us to embody fluidity and naturalness in life, bringing us closer to our essential flowing nature and our ability to be powerful, self-expressed, and free.
Through previously untold stories from her father’s life and from her own journey in embodying these lessons, Shannon presents these philosophies in tangible, accessible ways. With Bruce Lee’s words as a guide, she encourages readers to pursue their essential selves and apply these ideas and practices to their everyday lives―whether in learning new things, overcoming obstacles, or ultimately finding their true path.
Be Water, My Friend is an inspirational invitation to us all, a gentle call to action to consider our lives with new eyes. It is also a testament to how one man's exploration and determination transcended time and place to ignite our imaginations―and to inspire many around the world to transform their lives.
240 pages, Hardcover
First published October 6, 2020
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 557 reviews
May 18, 2021
The beauty of a book club is it sometimes forces you out of your comfort zone. I am not a fan of self help books. In fact, I avoid them like the plague. But, this book was a self help book, so I read it. And was surprised. It was much better than I expected.
I didn’t really know anything about Bruce Lee besides the fact he was a martial arts expert and died young. But he was quite the philosopher and Shannon Lee uses this book to expound on his theories. It’s a nice book to help one look at setting goals and moving forward. At getting unstuck, if you will. This isn’t a fad kind of thing, just solid suggestions on seeing situations in a different way. The theme, to be water, reminds us to be malleable, flexible and fluid.
The primary takeaway for me was to empty the mind - to discern rather than judge, to be an active learner, to stop looking for evidence that just reinforces my already held beliefs. That one must empty a cup before you can refill it.
I didn’t really know anything about Bruce Lee besides the fact he was a martial arts expert and died young. But he was quite the philosopher and Shannon Lee uses this book to expound on his theories. It’s a nice book to help one look at setting goals and moving forward. At getting unstuck, if you will. This isn’t a fad kind of thing, just solid suggestions on seeing situations in a different way. The theme, to be water, reminds us to be malleable, flexible and fluid.
The primary takeaway for me was to empty the mind - to discern rather than judge, to be an active learner, to stop looking for evidence that just reinforces my already held beliefs. That one must empty a cup before you can refill it.
February 8, 2021
3.5 stars
"Life itself is your teacher, and you are in a constant state of learning." -- Bruce Lee, chapter 3
Shannon Lee, the only surviving offspring martial artist-turned-TV & film icon Bruce Lee, has crafted a pretty good self-help tome with Be Water, My Friend. She was only four years old during 'The Dragon''s untimely passing in 1973, but Ms. Lee presents her father's thoughtful and occasionally profound philosophies via the copious handwritten notes that he kept during his life, with some additional assistance by interviewing his friends, students, and colleagues. (Note: Bruce Lee was nicknamed 'Never Sits Still' as a child, but even during his adult life he was continually exercising, studying / researching, and working to reach his full potential and be the best possible version of himself.) At times she also delves into biographic and memoir segments, not only about her father but also her late brother Brandon, who tragically died way too young while making The Crow. (In fact, chapter 7, in which she cathartically speaks of his passing and then her grief, may be the best and certainly the most moving section of the book.) Although it seemed to get a little repetitive in the latter half, Ms. Lee has a direct / personable writing style - and I'm guessing she's done some work as a motivational speaker? - to deliver ideas about personal growth or overcoming obstacles.
"Life itself is your teacher, and you are in a constant state of learning." -- Bruce Lee, chapter 3
Shannon Lee, the only surviving offspring martial artist-turned-TV & film icon Bruce Lee, has crafted a pretty good self-help tome with Be Water, My Friend. She was only four years old during 'The Dragon''s untimely passing in 1973, but Ms. Lee presents her father's thoughtful and occasionally profound philosophies via the copious handwritten notes that he kept during his life, with some additional assistance by interviewing his friends, students, and colleagues. (Note: Bruce Lee was nicknamed 'Never Sits Still' as a child, but even during his adult life he was continually exercising, studying / researching, and working to reach his full potential and be the best possible version of himself.) At times she also delves into biographic and memoir segments, not only about her father but also her late brother Brandon, who tragically died way too young while making The Crow. (In fact, chapter 7, in which she cathartically speaks of his passing and then her grief, may be the best and certainly the most moving section of the book.) Although it seemed to get a little repetitive in the latter half, Ms. Lee has a direct / personable writing style - and I'm guessing she's done some work as a motivational speaker? - to deliver ideas about personal growth or overcoming obstacles.
March 26, 2024
"Some may not believe it, but I spent hours perfecting whatever I did."
This book will come in handy when you feel like you're stuck forever in a place, do not appreciate what you are doing, or when you feel everyone else is so tiring and the whole world becomes too overwhelming.
I was really stressed out two days before I picked up this book and I was at my limits. I was feeling overwhelmed for nothing. And yes, even Kpop was overwhelming for me. It was then I realised I need help. Real help.
And for this I was searching for a book. Not some popular or much hyped about book. I wanted something real and solid. And I got them in this one after two days of frantic search.
It was worth the effort. And this book feels like someone is telling me a story in a way I see myself in it and the character as myself in there knowing some "harsh realities" about myself as the chapters went on. I took a whole day and made it to comfort me and motivate me at the same time. Because I needed both at the same time.
Important messages:
*Try to look upon your frustration as your teacher or your friend
*A skillful teacher can change someone's life for the best
*Self-actualization (love this part of the book. It taught me some very important things about my present life)
*It's possible to exercise our own mental leadership
*Meditation is good
*Understand our ignorance
*Handling body shaming and food fads
*The Six Diseases (refer the book)
*Own our sht
*Practical dreamers never quit
This book will come in handy when you feel like you're stuck forever in a place, do not appreciate what you are doing, or when you feel everyone else is so tiring and the whole world becomes too overwhelming.
I was really stressed out two days before I picked up this book and I was at my limits. I was feeling overwhelmed for nothing. And yes, even Kpop was overwhelming for me. It was then I realised I need help. Real help.
And for this I was searching for a book. Not some popular or much hyped about book. I wanted something real and solid. And I got them in this one after two days of frantic search.
It was worth the effort. And this book feels like someone is telling me a story in a way I see myself in it and the character as myself in there knowing some "harsh realities" about myself as the chapters went on. I took a whole day and made it to comfort me and motivate me at the same time. Because I needed both at the same time.
Important messages:
*Try to look upon your frustration as your teacher or your friend
*A skillful teacher can change someone's life for the best
*Self-actualization (love this part of the book. It taught me some very important things about my present life)
*It's possible to exercise our own mental leadership
*Meditation is good
*Understand our ignorance
*Handling body shaming and food fads
*The Six Diseases (refer the book)
*Own our sht
*Practical dreamers never quit
October 7, 2020
What a beautiful book. I wasn't sure what to expect but I've always found Bruce Lee fascinating. It's true, I knew very little about him, but that's always felt wrong. Maybe growing up with the original Karate Kid movies and seeing friends flock to martial arts classes in the 80s instilled curiosity, but never to the sport. I loved the mental control and zen-like confidence in these practices.
Now I've been given a glimpse of the man behind the legend and I'm riveted. 𝘛𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘪𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘢 𝘣𝘪𝘰𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘱𝘩𝘺. Shannon Lee weaves together the philosophical teachings and practices of her father with actionable techniques that you can incorporate in your life without martial arts. You get to see Bruce's handwritten journals and goals too, which I loved.
His most famous philosophy, "be water," resonated the deepest. (I'm a pisces ♓ I love water) Some principles like 𝗳𝗹𝗼𝘄𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗺𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 (being present) to find awareness and 𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗮𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆, the way water adapts to the rock you throw into the stream, were calming to me. While other ideas like 𝗽𝘂𝗿𝗽𝗼𝘀𝗲 and 𝘀𝗲𝗹𝗳-𝗮𝗰𝘁𝘂𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘇𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 redirected my focus outward to the world I want.
𝗜 𝗻𝗲𝗲𝗱𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗻𝗼𝘄.
As tensions continue to rise, I'm searching for the fluidity to handle and master my response to injustice, incompetence, and batshit ideas that don't serve my goals. I've already gone back to my bookmarks and that will continue as I practice my water journey.
If you're looking for a fiction break, read this book. It's easy to connect with and it inspired some long walks of reflection.
Now I've been given a glimpse of the man behind the legend and I'm riveted. 𝘛𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘪𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘢 𝘣𝘪𝘰𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘱𝘩𝘺. Shannon Lee weaves together the philosophical teachings and practices of her father with actionable techniques that you can incorporate in your life without martial arts. You get to see Bruce's handwritten journals and goals too, which I loved.
His most famous philosophy, "be water," resonated the deepest. (I'm a pisces ♓ I love water) Some principles like 𝗳𝗹𝗼𝘄𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗺𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 (being present) to find awareness and 𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗮𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆, the way water adapts to the rock you throw into the stream, were calming to me. While other ideas like 𝗽𝘂𝗿𝗽𝗼𝘀𝗲 and 𝘀𝗲𝗹𝗳-𝗮𝗰𝘁𝘂𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘇𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 redirected my focus outward to the world I want.
𝗜 𝗻𝗲𝗲𝗱𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗻𝗼𝘄.
As tensions continue to rise, I'm searching for the fluidity to handle and master my response to injustice, incompetence, and batshit ideas that don't serve my goals. I've already gone back to my bookmarks and that will continue as I practice my water journey.
If you're looking for a fiction break, read this book. It's easy to connect with and it inspired some long walks of reflection.
October 7, 2020
Bruce Lee’s daughter illuminates her father’s most powerful life philosophies―demonstrating how martial arts are a perfect metaphor for personal growth, and how we can practice those teachings every day. "Empty your mind; be formless, shapeless like water." Bruce Lee is a cultural icon, renowned the world over for his martial arts and film legacy. But Lee was also a deeply philosophical thinker, learning at an early age that martial arts are more than just an exercise in physical discipline―they are an apt metaphor for living a fully realized life. Now, in Be Water, My Friend, Lee’s daughter Shannon shares the concepts at the core of his philosophies, showing how they can serve as tools of personal growth and self-actualization. Each chapter brings a lesson from Bruce Lee’s teachings, expanding on the foundation of his iconic “be water” philosophy. Over the course of the book, we discover how being like water allows us to embody fluidity and naturalness in life, bringing us closer to our essential flowing nature and our ability to be powerful, self-expressed, and free.
Through previously untold stories from her father’s life and from her own journey in embodying these lessons, Shannon presents these philosophies in tangible, accessible ways. With Bruce Lee’s words as a guide, she encourages readers to pursue their essential selves and apply these ideas and practices to their everyday lives―whether in learning new things, overcoming obstacles, or ultimately finding their true path. Be Water, My Friend is an inspirational invitation to us all, a gentle call to action to consider our lives with new eyes. It is also a testament to how one man's exploration and determination transcended time and place to ignite our imaginations―and to inspire many around the world to transform their lives. This is a refreshingly original and inspiring guide to living life freely. Lee contends that a calm, flexible mind can adapt to any situation. Stop thinking you need to control all aspects of your life. Be water: with such a calm, flexible mind we can be open and flow with the circumstances by responding accordingly. That way we do not lose control but redefine it. Many thanks to Rider for an ARC.
Through previously untold stories from her father’s life and from her own journey in embodying these lessons, Shannon presents these philosophies in tangible, accessible ways. With Bruce Lee’s words as a guide, she encourages readers to pursue their essential selves and apply these ideas and practices to their everyday lives―whether in learning new things, overcoming obstacles, or ultimately finding their true path. Be Water, My Friend is an inspirational invitation to us all, a gentle call to action to consider our lives with new eyes. It is also a testament to how one man's exploration and determination transcended time and place to ignite our imaginations―and to inspire many around the world to transform their lives. This is a refreshingly original and inspiring guide to living life freely. Lee contends that a calm, flexible mind can adapt to any situation. Stop thinking you need to control all aspects of your life. Be water: with such a calm, flexible mind we can be open and flow with the circumstances by responding accordingly. That way we do not lose control but redefine it. Many thanks to Rider for an ARC.
March 23, 2022
4.5
Bruce Lee majstor borilačkih vještina, filmska i kulturna ikona. Nije mi stran jer sam „odrastala“ uz njega slušajući priče mog oca koji je i sam vlasnik crnog pojasa (Shotokan), kao i poznavatelj joge i istočnjačkih teza vezanih uz tu vrstu vještina. Kao mala sam rado u očevom društvu gledala Bruce Leejeve filmove sa svim vrstama vratolomija. Sada rado pročitam njegove pisane odlomke o filozofiji koju je utkao u svaku poru svog života.
Više o utiscima pročitajte klikom na link: https://knjige-u-svom-filmu.webador.c...
Bruce Lee majstor borilačkih vještina, filmska i kulturna ikona. Nije mi stran jer sam „odrastala“ uz njega slušajući priče mog oca koji je i sam vlasnik crnog pojasa (Shotokan), kao i poznavatelj joge i istočnjačkih teza vezanih uz tu vrstu vještina. Kao mala sam rado u očevom društvu gledala Bruce Leejeve filmove sa svim vrstama vratolomija. Sada rado pročitam njegove pisane odlomke o filozofiji koju je utkao u svaku poru svog života.
Više o utiscima pročitajte klikom na link: https://knjige-u-svom-filmu.webador.c...
December 15, 2020
December 10, 2020: A legend's most powerful philosophies, teachings, and lessons are all compiled in this one book curated by his daughter. With a purpose of motivating and directing the readers towards self-actualisation, acclimatisation, and absolute improvement, the various concepts elaborated through each chapter is a drop to fill the ocean of Bruce Lee's ultimate core principle: be water. Drawing comparisons with the actuality of an element—water—this collection flows calmly yet with enough force to condense determination and redefine the true nature of control in every reader.
blog ♦ ko-fi ♦ twitter
➼ an early digital copy received via netgalley but review remains uninfluenced. ↤
May 1, 2021
I adore Bruce Lee. I like that he put his own spin on things he learned from others. I already practice what he is preaching, this was more of a reminder. The reason why I rate it 2 pentagrams is bc the book is too wordy.
July 23, 2021
Već godinama imam blagu opsesiju Brucom Lee-om (čak sam i kunića nazvala po njemu :) ). Veselila sam se ovoj knjizi u kojoj se njegova kći trebala malo opširnije pozabaviti njegovom filozofijom.
To sam i dobila, ali moram priznati da sam očekivala više. Crtice iz života su interesantne, kao i Brucovi citati, ali vrlo brzo postane jasno da je Shannon bila zaista malena kad joj je otac preminuo, a da umjesto Brucove filozofije dobivamo Shannonino tumačenje koje nije baš toliko duboko koliko sam se nadala. Zapravo, knjiga je ostavila dojam kao da se kopija jednom previše puta prekopirala.
To sam i dobila, ali moram priznati da sam očekivala više. Crtice iz života su interesantne, kao i Brucovi citati, ali vrlo brzo postane jasno da je Shannon bila zaista malena kad joj je otac preminuo, a da umjesto Brucove filozofije dobivamo Shannonino tumačenje koje nije baš toliko duboko koliko sam se nadala. Zapravo, knjiga je ostavila dojam kao da se kopija jednom previše puta prekopirala.
January 15, 2023
„Какво повече може да искате от живота, освен да осъществявате потенциала си и да бъдете истински.“
Едва ли има човек, който да не е чувал за Брус Лий. Винаги съм го намирала за безкрайно интересна личност, много по-голяма от образа на холивудска звезда или майстор на бойни��е изкуства. Когато се появи тази книга, веднага привлече вниманието ми и докато търсех повече информация за нея, попаднах на доста мнения и ревюта, които тълкуват негативно мотива на автора ѝ (дъщерята на Брус Лий), за създаването на тези над 200 страници – да спечели бърза слава чрез името на своя баща, тъй като е била едва на 4, когато той умира и няма как да говори за философията му и за него като цяло.
Истината е, че книгата ми хареса, написана е достъпно, стилът не е на кой знае какво ниво, но четох с интерес до края. Да, Шанън Лий е била твърде малка, когато губи своя баща, но като негова дъщеря, тя има възможност да се докосне до цялото му писмено наследство от първо лице, има своята майка, ко��то със сигурност също има роля да предаде нататък философията на своя съпруг именно на децата си. Освен това самата Шанън тренира бойни изкуства, а неин треньор е Тед Уонг - един от учениците и близък приятел на баща ѝ. Авторката споделя, че отдава значителна част от живота си точно за запазването и популяризирането на това наследство, оставено от един от най-скъпите ѝ хора.
Научих доста за личността на Брус Лий: буден и високоинтелигентен човек, който не спира да търси нови начини за самоусъвършенстване – постоянно работи над красивия си почерк, върху това да говори и пише граматически правилно, да развива говоримия си английски, учи се да режисира филми. Пише много активно, запечатвайки подробно на хартия вижданията си за боя, създава есета и статии, записва идеите си, цели, мечти, напредъка си, запазени са и безброй чернови на писма и съчинения. Само размислите му за пътя на бойните изкуства и тренировките, които събира в труд със същото име, излизат в цели седем тома. Създава свое бойно изкуство джийт кун до, влагайки много усилия да положи в него дълбоки философски принципи. Всичко това е едно огромно богатство, което този необикновен човек оставя след себе си и то само за своите 32 г. Няколко години след смъртта му, през 1975 г. е публикувана и книгата „Пътят на джийт кун до“ – издадена от неговата съпруга (за моя изненада се оказва, че книгата е налична и на български език! и дори успях да се сдобия с нея). Брус Лий е „феноменален мислител и човек на действието“, силен и вътрешно свободен, грижовен и щедър, помогнал на много хора да променят живота си към по-добро и вдъхновител за мнозина.
В настоящата книга Шанън Лий преплита своите „житейски рефлексии“ с неговата философия, заедно с цитати от личните му записки - за ползите да се настройва умът със същата енергия, с която се тренират и телата, за това да гледаме на живота си като на експеримент, да изследваме и да бъдем открити, за смелостта да се изправяме срещу страховете си и да се научим да ги приемаме като „поредното парче от пъзел“, като показател къде и върху какво трябва да работим, за тълкуването на различни идеи и още…
Загубата на родител със сигурност оставя голяма празнота в Шанън през целия ѝ живот, а след смъртта на брат ѝ Брандън, тя пропада в особено състояние на постоянен хаос и депресия, „стегната в хватката на болката“. Именно чрез съчиненията на своя баща и неговите думи, Шанън намира сили да се измъкне и да продължи напред. Може би споделеното от авторката е една много малка част от учението на Брус Лий и за някои читатели това предизвиква разочарование, но на мен ми допадна, взех си каквото усетих, че може да ми е полезно.
Тази книга е като някакво своеобразно продължение на прекъснатата връзка между дъщеря и непрежалимия ѝ баща, като нещо общо между тях, което да остане запазено във времето.
„Отсега нататък, остави целия товар на предварителните си заключения зад гърба си, „отвори се“ за всичко и всички, които ще срещнеш. Помни, приятелю, полезността на чашата е в нейната празнота.“
Едва ли има човек, който да не е чувал за Брус Лий. Винаги съм го намирала за безкрайно интересна личност, много по-голяма от образа на холивудска звезда или майстор на бойни��е изкуства. Когато се появи тази книга, веднага привлече вниманието ми и докато търсех повече информация за нея, попаднах на доста мнения и ревюта, които тълкуват негативно мотива на автора ѝ (дъщерята на Брус Лий), за създаването на тези над 200 страници – да спечели бърза слава чрез името на своя баща, тъй като е била едва на 4, когато той умира и няма как да говори за философията му и за него като цяло.
Истината е, че книгата ми хареса, написана е достъпно, стилът не е на кой знае какво ниво, но четох с интерес до края. Да, Шанън Лий е била твърде малка, когато губи своя баща, но като негова дъщеря, тя има възможност да се докосне до цялото му писмено наследство от първо лице, има своята майка, ко��то със сигурност също има роля да предаде нататък философията на своя съпруг именно на децата си. Освен това самата Шанън тренира бойни изкуства, а неин треньор е Тед Уонг - един от учениците и близък приятел на баща ѝ. Авторката споделя, че отдава значителна част от живота си точно за запазването и популяризирането на това наследство, оставено от един от най-скъпите ѝ хора.
Научих доста за личността на Брус Лий: буден и високоинтелигентен човек, който не спира да търси нови начини за самоусъвършенстване – постоянно работи над красивия си почерк, върху това да говори и пише граматически правилно, да развива говоримия си английски, учи се да режисира филми. Пише много активно, запечатвайки подробно на хартия вижданията си за боя, създава есета и статии, записва идеите си, цели, мечти, напредъка си, запазени са и безброй чернови на писма и съчинения. Само размислите му за пътя на бойните изкуства и тренировките, които събира в труд със същото име, излизат в цели седем тома. Създава свое бойно изкуство джийт кун до, влагайки много усилия да положи в него дълбоки философски принципи. Всичко това е едно огромно богатство, което този необикновен човек оставя след себе си и то само за своите 32 г. Няколко години след смъртта му, през 1975 г. е публикувана и книгата „Пътят на джийт кун до“ – издадена от неговата съпруга (за моя изненада се оказва, че книгата е налична и на български език! и дори успях да се сдобия с нея). Брус Лий е „феноменален мислител и човек на действието“, силен и вътрешно свободен, грижовен и щедър, помогнал на много хора да променят живота си към по-добро и вдъхновител за мнозина.
В настоящата книга Шанън Лий преплита своите „житейски рефлексии“ с неговата философия, заедно с цитати от личните му записки - за ползите да се настройва умът със същата енергия, с която се тренират и телата, за това да гледаме на живота си като на експеримент, да изследваме и да бъдем открити, за смелостта да се изправяме срещу страховете си и да се научим да ги приемаме като „поредното парче от пъзел“, като показател къде и върху какво трябва да работим, за тълкуването на различни идеи и още…
Загубата на родител със сигурност оставя голяма празнота в Шанън през целия ѝ живот, а след смъртта на брат ѝ Брандън, тя пропада в особено състояние на постоянен хаос и депресия, „стегната в хватката на болката“. Именно чрез съчиненията на своя баща и неговите думи, Шанън намира сили да се измъкне и да продължи напред. Може би споделеното от авторката е една много малка част от учението на Брус Лий и за някои читатели това предизвиква разочарование, но на мен ми допадна, взех си каквото усетих, че може да ми е полезно.
Тази книга е като някакво своеобразно продължение на прекъснатата връзка между дъщеря и непрежалимия ѝ баща, като нещо общо между тях, което да остане запазено във времето.
„Отсега нататък, остави целия товар на предварителните си заключения зад гърба си, „отвори се“ за всичко и всички, които ще срещнеш. Помни, приятелю, полезността на чашата е в нейната празнота.“
December 1, 2021
Shannon was only four when her famous dad died yet her "expertise is having known and been loved by him..." This is like taking the words of a Master to be interpreted by a preschooler, she even admits "this book may seem simplistic at times" to appeal to everyone, which means she pleases no one.
Bruce Lee fans will be dismayed that his words are translated literally or narrowly. Just go straight to the master and read Bruce Lee's lofty books.
Why rephrase Bruce's perfect prose: "Remember, I am no teacher; I can merely be a signpost for a traveler who is lost. It is up to you to decide on the direction. All I can offer is an experience but never a conclusion, so even what I have said needs to be thoroughly examined by you."
Shannon says: "Another way to say this is: Don't give up your sovereignty or personal power. Claim your path and your own experience." What?!
I tested this on a college student and he said it was boring and nothing new. Exactly the opposite of Bruce Lee.
Bruce Lee fans will be dismayed that his words are translated literally or narrowly. Just go straight to the master and read Bruce Lee's lofty books.
Why rephrase Bruce's perfect prose: "Remember, I am no teacher; I can merely be a signpost for a traveler who is lost. It is up to you to decide on the direction. All I can offer is an experience but never a conclusion, so even what I have said needs to be thoroughly examined by you."
Shannon says: "Another way to say this is: Don't give up your sovereignty or personal power. Claim your path and your own experience." What?!
I tested this on a college student and he said it was boring and nothing new. Exactly the opposite of Bruce Lee.
December 4, 2021
Didn't like it. Seemed like very rudimentary self help with a little Bruce Lee mixed in. Nothing revolutionary, and very boring.
May 24, 2021
Not too long ago we were driving in downtown Houston when we came across some graffiti that included Lee's famous saying: "Be Water, My Friend." My husband then went on to explain the theory: water is malleable and adapts; it is strong yet permeable. Then he gave me this book on Mother's Day.
As a kid, I grew up watching Bruce Lee movies. I remember them vividly. The fight sequences were always so impressive. I also remember a poster that hung on the closet door - Bruce Lee is in his iconic pose ready to strike.
What his daughter does here is take his philosophy and apply it to all aspects of life. She breaks down his ideas into bite sized chunks. I marked several passages, but I think this is my favorite:
"Competition categorizes everything and everyone into winners and losers rather than collaborators and cocreators. It separates us from self, and it pits us against one another." The real person you are trying to one up is yourself. Bruce Lee had an enviable work ethic - he applied his discipline to all areas of his life whether it was working out, his meditative practices or his dream of breaking into Hollywood. He didn't compromise his principals. Ever.
All in all, I loved this book. I found the writing accessible and the ideas insightful. Shannon Lee does a great job of portraying her father with candor. Bruce Lee kept extensive journals and these proved helpful in compiling the book.
As a kid, I grew up watching Bruce Lee movies. I remember them vividly. The fight sequences were always so impressive. I also remember a poster that hung on the closet door - Bruce Lee is in his iconic pose ready to strike.
What his daughter does here is take his philosophy and apply it to all aspects of life. She breaks down his ideas into bite sized chunks. I marked several passages, but I think this is my favorite:
"Competition categorizes everything and everyone into winners and losers rather than collaborators and cocreators. It separates us from self, and it pits us against one another." The real person you are trying to one up is yourself. Bruce Lee had an enviable work ethic - he applied his discipline to all areas of his life whether it was working out, his meditative practices or his dream of breaking into Hollywood. He didn't compromise his principals. Ever.
All in all, I loved this book. I found the writing accessible and the ideas insightful. Shannon Lee does a great job of portraying her father with candor. Bruce Lee kept extensive journals and these proved helpful in compiling the book.
March 25, 2022
Много приятна книга на няколко нива. Първо, беше ми супер интересно да науча за забележителната личност Брус Лий, за когото си признавам, че не знаех почти нищо. Много дълбок човек със желязна мотивация и воля за себереализиране (макар че той го наричаше по друг начин) - не само на физическо, но и на духовно ниво. Определено мъдри прозрения и фантастична съдба, подчинена на този богат вътрешен живот. Посока, търпение, усилена работа, непримиримост, вдъхновение... Второ, беше ми много приятно да изслушам изповедта на дъщеря му (автор на книгата), която просто го обожава. Не знам, винаги съм намирала за много красиво да наблюдавам как някой се възхищава и обича другиго. В случая Брус Лий умира много млад и тя има смътни спомени с него. Благодарение на неговото писмено наследство (дневници, есета и др.) тя се свързва с него и го опознава още по-добре, което пък помага на нейния личен път. Трето, беше ми много приятно, като познавам преводача - браво, Бистре :-)) Като цяло, чудесна книга и ако не беше Сторител, едва ли бих й отделила време. Като и без това се готвя за полумаратон, по-добре да имам нещо в ушите ;-)
February 4, 2021
Ever read a book where the author's words speak directly to you? Like they know what you're going through. Be water my friend was it for me.. every page whispered a badly needed advice or hugged me in a way I couldn't imagine words could do. Thanks Shannon for sharing the Lee's wisdom with us.. Be water my friends 🌊💙
January 31, 2024
Όχι ακριβώς αυτοβελτίωσης, αλλά περισσότερο μια ματιά από την κλειδαρότρυπα στις σκέψεις και τις ιδέες του Bruce Lee. Γραμμένο για να γίνει κατανοητό ακόμα και από πολύ νεαρούς αναγνώστες, δίνει μια μικρή ιδέα για το πώς διαχειρίστηκε ο ίδιος το πνεύμα και το σώμα του, και πάνω σε ποιες αξίες εκπαίδευσε τους μαθητές του.
Πολύ καλό, παρόλο που οι πιο μυημένοι, είτε στη βαθιά φιλοσοφία των ανατολικών πολεμικών τεχνών, είτε στην έννοια του Σωματονού, θα το βρουν κάπως βασικό.
4/5
Πολύ καλό, παρόλο που οι πιο μυημένοι, είτε στη βαθιά φιλοσοφία των ανατολικών πολεμικών τεχνών, είτε στην έννοια του Σωματονού, θα το βρουν κάπως βασικό.
4/5
December 3, 2020
This is not a biography of Bruce Lee, nor a memoir of his daughter, Shannon Lee. It's more of a self-help book with Bruce Lee's life long ideas and teachings, which could be appplied to obstacles in every day life and not only martial arts. Although the book was not what I expected at all since I never read self-help books, it should be an enjoyable read for none "die hard" fans, especially those that are not Chinese and non martial art practioners. Shannon Lee was only 4 when her Dad died, I was a teenager. To be fair, I grew up reading and knowing everything about Bruce Lee, including some of his writings and journals in Chinese, which, sadly, were not included in this book. He also inspired me to learn martial arts, a very similar form as his jetkundo, at a young age.
My favorite parts of the book: the philosiphies/quotes, images of his journal, the beautifully designed cover, and a glimpse into the thoughts of a man who was much more than an icon. I think Bruce Lee somehow reminded me of Steve Jobs after reading this book: both were the kind of people that had vast interests in life yet excelled all.
My favorite parts of the book: the philosiphies/quotes, images of his journal, the beautifully designed cover, and a glimpse into the thoughts of a man who was much more than an icon. I think Bruce Lee somehow reminded me of Steve Jobs after reading this book: both were the kind of people that had vast interests in life yet excelled all.
July 16, 2022
If you hate self-help books as I do, consider yourself warned. I did 25% fast forward on the audiobook because I was still interested in learning the teachings of Bruce Lee, but the self-help-y vibe was not working out for me. Teachings are good. The style of writing is personally not for me.
I may still recommend it to young artists, like some of my (art college) students, especially when they tend to rush or look for shortcuts to get to the results, or when they keep asking me/us(instructors) what they SHOULD do, to which, I tell pretty much exactly what Bruce Lee would say, (but they may listen to the advice more seriously if it came from Bruce Lee himself? )
I may still recommend it to young artists, like some of my (art college) students, especially when they tend to rush or look for shortcuts to get to the results, or when they keep asking me/us(instructors) what they SHOULD do, to which, I tell pretty much exactly what Bruce Lee would say, (but they may listen to the advice more seriously if it came from Bruce Lee himself? )
July 12, 2021
I really wanted to like this. I tend to love musings on philosophy, but this meanders confusingly between new age takes from Shannon (the Author) and Eastern-influenced Bruce Lee. It was a lot more Shannon than Bruce, which is fine, but not what I was after. It is a little bit of Bruce's history, a lot of Shannon's--and that is how it approaches the philosophy, too. It isn't for me, but it is a timely woo-woo, new-agey, semi-self-helper, and that can be pretty popular.
May 19, 2021
Тези, които ме познават знаят, че и на книжка за оцветяване с Брус Лий пак бих дала много звездичките, другите, вече го знаете.
Не приех появата на тази книга само и единствено с въодушевление, скептичната ми половина, която не е осъзнала заветите на Брус си помисли: "Поредното използване на името му за пари".
Но Шанън ни показва ясно, че тя просто иска да държи учението му живо, какви препятствия и загуби е преживяла, знаем всички и иска да помогне на хората, повярвах ѝ, поне в това ме убеди книгата, а и и тя има гените и както виждам душата.
Не знам дали тази книга би помогнала на някого, който за пръв път се задълбочава в Брус Лий, има много хора, за които той е един крещящ азиатец от отдавна забравени филми. Но аз мисля източно- който е готов за промяна, ще я постигне, някои хора искат всичко на готово, купуват де що има излязла книга за взаимопомощ, но нищо не постигат, а другите готови за промяна може в някое невзрачно книжле, дори любовен роман да видят едно изречение да ги подтикне да направят промяна и търсейки вече книги за целта си да я постигнат.
Но знам, че всички пазещи завета за истинския Брус Лий доколкото може да го разберем за човека, философа, майстора, дори актьора. Подобни книги значат много, затова съм малко изнервена от грешките, от които бликаше книгата, въпреки готините консултанти. Личи си че нито преводачката, нито редакторката са истински "фенове", героят на Брус Лий е Кейто, не Кото, "Смъртоносна игра" (добре, че не е Смъртоносна битка, да ни съдят за права),"Игра на смърт" е вече наложило се заглавие, без да се споменава оригинала е объркващо и черешката: "Островът на кокошката" (какви кокошки, к'ви петли!), работно заглавия на "Дракона идва", има се предвид Островът на Хан (лошият, който всички гледали филма знае, че кани бойци на острова си, да не говорим, че името Han не се пише като hen квачка, кокошка), ки гоонг?, Вече навлязло като цигун и даоизъм, макар Лий винаги да го е изписвал по кантонски с "Т", тук си е признато Дао и Даоизъм.
Но да се върнем към книгата, която за съжаление не си взех на английски, но не е късно. Аз я четох бавно заради адски болки в челюстта с последвало умиране на нерви на зъба и последващи болки в синусите заедно с другите гадории, но минах през това не толкова приятно препятствие с думите на Учителя, той винаги ме е вдъхновявал и ми е помагал да туширам щом се появи страх или тревожност се зачитам в негови мисли, може би затова нямах непознати случки в книгата, които биха били интересни на незапознати читатели.
И за това става да опознаете Брус Лий, ако не сте изчели почти де що има за него и все пак има глава за Джийт кун до, за мен винаги ще е "пресичащ", а не "изпреварващ юмрук" на български, защото той буквално пресича атаката. Сравнението как животът е битка и ние трябва да направим всичко по силите си да излезем не само победители, но и да се обогатим с победата си не е нова. Няма нищо ново в тази книга има прастари истини за живота в нови разсъждения.
Така че, благодаря ти, Шанън, за всичко което правиш!
Не приех появата на тази книга само и единствено с въодушевление, скептичната ми половина, която не е осъзнала заветите на Брус си помисли: "Поредното използване на името му за пари".
Но Шанън ни показва ясно, че тя просто иска да държи учението му живо, какви препятствия и загуби е преживяла, знаем всички и иска да помогне на хората, повярвах ѝ, поне в това ме убеди книгата, а и и тя има гените и както виждам душата.
Не знам дали тази книга би помогнала на някого, който за пръв път се задълбочава в Брус Лий, има много хора, за които той е един крещящ азиатец от отдавна забравени филми. Но аз мисля източно- който е готов за промяна, ще я постигне, някои хора искат всичко на готово, купуват де що има излязла книга за взаимопомощ, но нищо не постигат, а другите готови за промяна може в някое невзрачно книжле, дори любовен роман да видят едно изречение да ги подтикне да направят промяна и търсейки вече книги за целта си да я постигнат.
Но знам, че всички пазещи завета за истинския Брус Лий доколкото може да го разберем за човека, философа, майстора, дори актьора. Подобни книги значат много, затова съм малко изнервена от грешките, от които бликаше книгата, въпреки готините консултанти. Личи си че нито преводачката, нито редакторката са истински "фенове", героят на Брус Лий е Кейто, не Кото, "Смъртоносна игра" (добре, че не е Смъртоносна битка, да ни съдят за права),"Игра на смърт" е вече наложило се заглавие, без да се споменава оригинала е объркващо и черешката: "Островът на кокошката" (какви кокошки, к'ви петли!), работно заглавия на "Дракона идва", има се предвид Островът на Хан (лошият, който всички гледали филма знае, че кани бойци на острова си, да не говорим, че името Han не се пише като hen квачка, кокошка), ки гоонг?, Вече навлязло като цигун и даоизъм, макар Лий винаги да го е изписвал по кантонски с "Т", тук си е признато Дао и Даоизъм.
Но да се върнем към книгата, която за съжаление не си взех на английски, но не е късно. Аз я четох бавно заради адски болки в челюстта с последвало умиране на нерви на зъба и последващи болки в синусите заедно с другите гадории, но минах през това не толкова приятно препятствие с думите на Учителя, той винаги ме е вдъхновявал и ми е помагал да туширам щом се появи страх или тревожност се зачитам в негови мисли, може би затова нямах непознати случки в книгата, които биха били интересни на незапознати читатели.
И за това става да опознаете Брус Лий, ако не сте изчели почти де що има за него и все пак има глава за Джийт кун до, за мен винаги ще е "пресичащ", а не "изпреварващ юмрук" на български, защото той буквално пресича атаката. Сравнението как животът е битка и ние трябва да направим всичко по силите си да излезем не само победители, но и да се обогатим с победата си не е нова. Няма нищо ново в тази книга има прастари истини за живота в нови разсъждения.
Така че, благодаря ти, Шанън, за всичко което правиш!
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November 2, 2021"Bądź jak woda, przyjacielu" to książka dla osób interesujących się rozwojem osobistym i duchowym, której nie należy się obawiać. Jest napisana bardzo przystępnym językiem, czyta się to przyjemnie i nie powinna przytłoczyć nawet osób nowych w temacie.
Książka opowiada o podejściu do życia, gdzie autorka, córka Bruce'a Lee, które autorka porównuje do wody. Jest to bardzo ciekawe i trafne porównanie, może być też naprawdę inspirujące.
Do tego, często przekazuje analogię życia do sztuki walki, sztuki walki do wody, wszystko płynnie się przeplata i daje całkiem ciekawy obraz.
Jest to książka bardzo dobra na początek, prosta, nieprzytłaczająca. Osoby zaawansowane w rozwoju duchowym i osobistym mogą nie natrafić tu na wiele nowych nauk. Nie znajdą tu skomplikowanych przekazów.
To jest książka "dla każdego", nie wymaga żadnej wcześniejszej wiedzy, przygarnia wszystkich jak przyjaciel i przekazuje swoją mądrość, w sposób płynny i kojący - jak sama woda.
Całkiem przyjemny tytuł, zwłaszcza dla kogoś kto jest początkujący w tej dziedzinie lub szuka lekkiej inspiracji ❤️
Książka opowiada o podejściu do życia, gdzie autorka, córka Bruce'a Lee, które autorka porównuje do wody. Jest to bardzo ciekawe i trafne porównanie, może być też naprawdę inspirujące.
Do tego, często przekazuje analogię życia do sztuki walki, sztuki walki do wody, wszystko płynnie się przeplata i daje całkiem ciekawy obraz.
Jest to książka bardzo dobra na początek, prosta, nieprzytłaczająca. Osoby zaawansowane w rozwoju duchowym i osobistym mogą nie natrafić tu na wiele nowych nauk. Nie znajdą tu skomplikowanych przekazów.
To jest książka "dla każdego", nie wymaga żadnej wcześniejszej wiedzy, przygarnia wszystkich jak przyjaciel i przekazuje swoją mądrość, w sposób płynny i kojący - jak sama woda.
Całkiem przyjemny tytuł, zwłaszcza dla kogoś kto jest początkujący w tej dziedzinie lub szuka lekkiej inspiracji ❤️
December 25, 2023
I loved this book. It continues to inspire me to embrace the properties of water in the way I engage with the world and the people within it. Embrace Agility!
December 6, 2020
I've been a fan of Bruce Lee for as long as I can remember. My father was a big fan of Green Hornet when I was growing up. The only thing I remember from that show is the character Bruce Lee played: Kato. I had no idea what kung fu was. I had no idea who Bruce Lee was. But for me, he was the star of the show.
Last year I read Bruce Lee: A Life by Matthew Polly. It was an exceptional lens into the life of Bruce Lee. A life that was rich, inspiring, and one that ended far too early. It's hard not to be inspired by the things Bruce Lee accomplished in his short time on Earth. He achieved incredible mastery over who he was, a "human, fully expressed."
I have to admit, my admiration for Bruce Lee probably adds an extra star onto this review. Be Water, My Friend actually starts off quite strong. Shannon does a great job distilling written work from Bruce Lee and turning them into consumable chapters of self-help material. It's not all that surprising that the ideas aren't entirely original (what is these days?) as Bruce Lee talked strongly about taking ideas and turning them into your own. He appears to have been quite the master in that regard.
Shannon weaves many practical stories into the philosophical lessons throughout the book. Some come from Bruce Lee's life and some come from here own. This is pretty common with self-help literature. I think it lends to the humanity behind the lessons and serves to drive the lessons home. The stories from Bruce Lee's life certainly aren't as extensive as in Matthew Polly's book but that shouldn't be expected.
The book loses a bit of momentum in the closing chapters. That being said, it was a quick, enjoyable read. I'm happy I picked it up because, like I mentioned, I'm bound to enjoy work related to Bruce Lee. It's been 47 years since he walked the Earth and he continues to influence people around the world.
Originally posted on my blog: https://anthonymorris.dev/books/be-wa...
Last year I read Bruce Lee: A Life by Matthew Polly. It was an exceptional lens into the life of Bruce Lee. A life that was rich, inspiring, and one that ended far too early. It's hard not to be inspired by the things Bruce Lee accomplished in his short time on Earth. He achieved incredible mastery over who he was, a "human, fully expressed."
I have to admit, my admiration for Bruce Lee probably adds an extra star onto this review. Be Water, My Friend actually starts off quite strong. Shannon does a great job distilling written work from Bruce Lee and turning them into consumable chapters of self-help material. It's not all that surprising that the ideas aren't entirely original (what is these days?) as Bruce Lee talked strongly about taking ideas and turning them into your own. He appears to have been quite the master in that regard.
Shannon weaves many practical stories into the philosophical lessons throughout the book. Some come from Bruce Lee's life and some come from here own. This is pretty common with self-help literature. I think it lends to the humanity behind the lessons and serves to drive the lessons home. The stories from Bruce Lee's life certainly aren't as extensive as in Matthew Polly's book but that shouldn't be expected.
The book loses a bit of momentum in the closing chapters. That being said, it was a quick, enjoyable read. I'm happy I picked it up because, like I mentioned, I'm bound to enjoy work related to Bruce Lee. It's been 47 years since he walked the Earth and he continues to influence people around the world.
Originally posted on my blog: https://anthonymorris.dev/books/be-wa...
June 21, 2023
Be Water, My Friend: The Teachings of Bruce Lee is a well-organized dive into Bruce Lee's philosophies and teachings. It begins as a more general and accessible self-help book with a focus on mindfulness, reflection, and open-mindedness. As the book progresses, Shannon Lee includes personal anecdotes, excerpts from Bruce Lee's writings, and stories from the life of the legendary kung fu actor. Certainly, a closer look at Bruce Lee's life is part of the draw of this book, but Shannon ties it together in a compelling way.
March 17, 2021
I’m a big fan of the late Bruce Lee and I saw his daughter Shannon on a talk show talking about her book. I don’t know if it’s the mood I’m in, but I had trouble getting through this one.
I was interested in the chapter where she talked about her brothers death. Wish there had been more of that kind of thing. If you want to learn more about Bruce Lee’s philosophy of life, you will probably like this.
I was interested in the chapter where she talked about her brothers death. Wish there had been more of that kind of thing. If you want to learn more about Bruce Lee’s philosophy of life, you will probably like this.
February 3, 2021
Definitely appreciated Shannon Lee getting to know her father through exploring his philosophies in this book. Overall I personally found it a little repetitive and not for me.
April 29, 2022
Be Water, My Friend: The True Teachings of Brue Lee, written by Shannon Lee (2020). Shannon Lee is an American Actress, Martial Artist and Businessperson, and is the only living child of the legendary Bruce Lee. Bruce Lee died when she was just 4 years old. In the book, Shannon Lee has shared some teachings or ideologies that her father discovered and lived upon. The book also a reflection of her own life and how she had applied her fathers' ways in her life journey.
I have been following the teachings of Bruce Lee for a long time. Inspired by the limits to which he has pushed both his mind and body. Lees' punches and kicks were so fast and responsive that even the cameras at that time period couldn't even pick up. Bruce had to slow down his speed for the cameras to pick up the pace. Bruce learnt multiple types of martial arts and used them in his fights according to his needs. He established multiple martial arts schools in America where his own way of martial arts was taught. Today, along with his martial arts skills and being an actor, he is well known for his philosophical thoughts. His philosophies were said to have been inspired by the teachings of the Indian philosopher, J. Krishnamurti, Allan Watts and from reading other philosophical books. Bruce Lee later wrote the book "The Tao of Jeet Kune Do", which contains his original viewpoints and philosophies.
Some of my favourite quotes from Bruce Lee are as follows:
"Be Water, My Friend.
Empty your mind.
Be formless, shapeless, like water.
You put water into a cup, it becomes the cup.
You put water into a bottle, it becomes the bottle.
You put it into a teapot, it becomes the teapot.
Now water can flow or it can crash.
Be water, my friend."
“Using no way as way; having no limitation as limitation.”
"Defeat is a state of mind; No one is ever defeated until defeat has been accepted as a reality."
"I fear not the man who has practised 10,000 kicks once, but I fear the man who has practised one kick 10,000 times."
There is a state of mind known as "The flow state" first coined by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi. A flow state is a state of existence where we are fully immersed in the present moment and we are performing at our optimum level with the least stress. It is also known as being in the zone. The story of Bruce Lee is the story where he discovers himself, and learn his own way to attain flow state. He compares the flow state to be like water. Water always changes itself to fit its surroundings. Bruce is telling everyone to find their path while being not restricted to one certain way. Being restricted to one thing can sometimes be what that is limiting us. Hence, we must free ourselves of all dogma and be boundless and find our own paths to our goals. Water as itself is expressing fully itself with respect to its surroundings, it does not restrict its movements while in particular surroundings. Hence, Be Water, My Friend!
Being an admirer of the teachings of Bruce Lee, I was finding the read enjoyable. Following his teachings, I was trying to be as mindful as possible during the read. I had previously heard many of his quotes from youtube videos and it was exciting for me to go across them again in the book. I am giving the book a rating of 4/5 because I enjoyed reading the quotes from Bruce Lee, seeing his pictures of him in the book and also remembering him. I found the interpretation of philosophy in the book was not as good as the original interpreter. There was exaggeration in the explanation. Maybe it is better to read original writings by Bruce Lee himself.
I have been following the teachings of Bruce Lee for a long time. Inspired by the limits to which he has pushed both his mind and body. Lees' punches and kicks were so fast and responsive that even the cameras at that time period couldn't even pick up. Bruce had to slow down his speed for the cameras to pick up the pace. Bruce learnt multiple types of martial arts and used them in his fights according to his needs. He established multiple martial arts schools in America where his own way of martial arts was taught. Today, along with his martial arts skills and being an actor, he is well known for his philosophical thoughts. His philosophies were said to have been inspired by the teachings of the Indian philosopher, J. Krishnamurti, Allan Watts and from reading other philosophical books. Bruce Lee later wrote the book "The Tao of Jeet Kune Do", which contains his original viewpoints and philosophies.
Some of my favourite quotes from Bruce Lee are as follows:
"Be Water, My Friend.
Empty your mind.
Be formless, shapeless, like water.
You put water into a cup, it becomes the cup.
You put water into a bottle, it becomes the bottle.
You put it into a teapot, it becomes the teapot.
Now water can flow or it can crash.
Be water, my friend."
“Using no way as way; having no limitation as limitation.”
"Defeat is a state of mind; No one is ever defeated until defeat has been accepted as a reality."
"I fear not the man who has practised 10,000 kicks once, but I fear the man who has practised one kick 10,000 times."
There is a state of mind known as "The flow state" first coined by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi. A flow state is a state of existence where we are fully immersed in the present moment and we are performing at our optimum level with the least stress. It is also known as being in the zone. The story of Bruce Lee is the story where he discovers himself, and learn his own way to attain flow state. He compares the flow state to be like water. Water always changes itself to fit its surroundings. Bruce is telling everyone to find their path while being not restricted to one certain way. Being restricted to one thing can sometimes be what that is limiting us. Hence, we must free ourselves of all dogma and be boundless and find our own paths to our goals. Water as itself is expressing fully itself with respect to its surroundings, it does not restrict its movements while in particular surroundings. Hence, Be Water, My Friend!
Being an admirer of the teachings of Bruce Lee, I was finding the read enjoyable. Following his teachings, I was trying to be as mindful as possible during the read. I had previously heard many of his quotes from youtube videos and it was exciting for me to go across them again in the book. I am giving the book a rating of 4/5 because I enjoyed reading the quotes from Bruce Lee, seeing his pictures of him in the book and also remembering him. I found the interpretation of philosophy in the book was not as good as the original interpreter. There was exaggeration in the explanation. Maybe it is better to read original writings by Bruce Lee himself.
February 6, 2024
This was a nice introduction to Bruce Lee. I was unfamiliar with his teachings before this and it was especially inspiring learning more about Bruce from his daughter.
Shannon did a great job of describing her father's legacy and life lessons while showing us how we can apply these lessons to find our own self-fulfillment. I plan on buying this book soon so that I can continue coming back to it.
One of my favorite quotes from the book is the following:
"By practicing that which challenges me -- practicing acceptance, practicing patience, practicing loving, practicing improvement -- I will gain confidence until the skill I am practicing becomes second nature."
Shannon did a great job of describing her father's legacy and life lessons while showing us how we can apply these lessons to find our own self-fulfillment. I plan on buying this book soon so that I can continue coming back to it.
One of my favorite quotes from the book is the following:
"By practicing that which challenges me -- practicing acceptance, practicing patience, practicing loving, practicing improvement -- I will gain confidence until the skill I am practicing becomes second nature."
September 2, 2021
Това е първият ми досег до философията на Брус Лий. Като деца сме гледали филмите му с интерес, но кой да предположи тогава, че той е много повече от един изключителен актьор и майстор на бойните изкуства.
Философията му за живота и практическите съвети, които са изложени от Шарън Лий в настоящата книга са източник на вдъхновение, който трудно може да бъде описан. Вдъхновението, красотата и очарованието в книгата идват най-вече от представената свобода. Свободата да се развиваш, усъвършенстваш и постигаш целите си без ограничения, използвайки времето си по най-добрият начин.
Както е казал Брус Лий "Ако обичаш живота, не губи време, защото времето е това, от което е направен животът.".
Философията му за живота и практическите съвети, които са изложени от Шарън Лий в настоящата книга са източник на вдъхновение, който трудно може да бъде описан. Вдъхновението, красотата и очарованието в книгата идват най-вече от представената свобода. Свободата да се развиваш, усъвършенстваш и постигаш целите си без ограничения, използвайки времето си по най-добрият начин.
Както е казал Брус Лий "Ако обичаш живота, не губи време, защото времето е това, от което е направен животът.".
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 15, 2023
A poetic reminder of what it means to be human, and how to live a life fully expressed: full of purpose, compassion, self trust, and growth. I appreciated the chapters around the role of mistakes in our growth, mind conditioning, and fluidity for a happier life. Be water, Maya ya hmara.
'Research your own experience, reject what is useless, accept what is useful, and add what is essentially your own.'
'The enemy of development is pain phobia.'
'Hard rules do not make sense for a life in motion.'
'Research your own experience, reject what is useless, accept what is useful, and add what is essentially your own.'
'The enemy of development is pain phobia.'
'Hard rules do not make sense for a life in motion.'
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