Reverence for Existence – A Way of Knowing

Reverence for Existence
286 Pages
ISBN 978-0965728508

“The world occasionally lifts its veil,” when we pay attention. In Reverence for Existence the author takes the reader to remote deserts, mountain landscapes, glacial cirques, and home country as he traces paths toward meaning and compassion. The richness of his experience leads to reflection on ways of living with authenticity that also affirm the ethical and spiritual essence of our world. He tells a deeply thoughtful story of engagement with Nature, the “knowing” it offers, and the “reverence” it can inspire.


“At its heart, Reverence for Existence is a deeply moving book for all who cherish the wonders of being. Brestrup illuminates a treasure trove of possibilities to experience life at its fullest. Rarely do we see brilliance and beauty merged in such an artful manner, replete with nourishment for a hungry culture.” ~ Ed Duvin, CEO Building Caring Communities


“Our attempts to control the Earth are many, buttressed by socialization towards Earth and Nature that leads to distancing and disrespect. This makes Reverence for Existence: A Way of Knowing critical reading. Brestrup takes us on a journey of re-connection through his experiences in and philosophy of nature, well-integrated with his reflections on the teachings of Muir, Thoreau, Abbey, Austin and others who honor all life. The Earth and her inhabitants are our kin.” ~ S. Rowan Wolf, PhD. Educator, Sociologist, Social Justice Activist

Craig Brestrup

About Craig Brestrup (Santa Rosa, California Author)

Craig Brestrup

Craig Brestrup worked for 20 years in the public sector of the mental health profession, first as a psychotherapist and later as CEO of mental health clinics in Texas and California. He has been executive director of five nonprofit organizations since 1980. In 1989, he received a Ph.D. in medical humanities, with a concentration in medical and environmental ethics and the philosophy of nature, from the Institute for the Medical Humanities at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. In 1994, he left mental health for animal protection, becoming executive director of the Progressive Animal Welfare Society, an organization with major programs in three areas: wildlife rehabilitation, animal advocacy, and companion animals (shelter and vet clinic). He published a book, Disposable Animals, in 1997 that was a study of animals and culture, emphasizing the plight of companion animals, millions of whom are killed in animal shelters annually. More recently, he wrote and published Reverence for Existence: A Way of Knowing and in 2021 will release A Short Life Story & Other Essays.

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