HEAVEN'S GATE

A deeply religious debut book offers advice and insights on how to live a faith-based life.

In his abstract work on religion and spirituality, Muza strings together a series of short sections featuring his reflections on how to get closer to God in one’s daily life. The text resembles a lyrical essay and integrates elements of poetry and self-help books. There is no narrative arc in these pages. Rather, the volume is more akin to a collection of aphorisms or an exploration of Muza’s own religious philosophy. In fact, the About the Author section reveals that he “composed numerous religious gospels” before his eyesight failed. In some passages, the author discusses the path to success. In the section “The Gospel,” he writes: “Go to bed and hold a piece of bread in your heart, and then you will have Jesus when you awake. An unforgiving spirit holds back the power in your life. Right thinking opens the door to success.” Other times, Muza dispenses general advice, as in the section “Forgiveness,” when he urges his audience to “be slow to anger and quick to forgive, and you will have friends as long as you live.” Much of the book is dedicated to connecting Muza’s political and religious beliefs, some of which are controversial. He tells readers: “Abortion is a mortal sin. Our moral values are out of control. Families are being destroyed….Sin flourishes, running rampant. It’s Sodom and Gomorrah all over again. Armageddon is at our door.” In another instance he writes: “Rock music and artists pledge their lives to the destruction of family values and mortals, promoting sex, violent acts, and drug experimentation. Youth crazes that seem innocent and cute—Pokemon, Digimon, Teletubbies, Harry Potter, video games, Furbys, action figures, and toys—are evil.” Some readers may disagree with his strong views on these issues. Eventually, his voice softens and he makes a point that many readers should embrace: “To make yourself whole, do something that is good and unselfish.” While the book meanders at times, readers who share the author’s political and spiritual beliefs should find some useful advice.

A fervent compilation of thoughts on God, politics, and religion.