Strength for Life... let's get real

I have been weight training off and on for the majority of my life while being particularly focused in that direction over the last two years or so.  I have had great results in that time period too.  I am toned (nothing new) and have added some 30 lbs of muscle to my physique.  This all while being on a pecsetarian diet.  I also have a hard time putting down books.  They seem to nag at me to finish them whether I'm enjoying them or not.  This, however, was not the case with 'Strength for Life'.  I could honestly not finish it.  I'm not saying it wasn't without its tidbits of wisdom and some practical advise, but overall it was cheaply written and marketed throughout.  I wish I could give a more substantive critique, but it has been a while since I read the great portion of the book that I did read.

This is all just something to feed the 'Wilber integral' market and Shawn's pocket & ego.  I do commend Shawn for his physical results... I'm not entirely clear if he had a steroid boost from years back or not, but either way he has maintained and continues on with a more healthier and complete path.  Also, I don't deny that his methods and advice can't and haven't helped people, but let's be real and put them in their proper place.  Nothing special.

When I felt frustrated with this book I remember visiting amazon.com's website to see if there were people who shared similar views on the book.  There was.  At the time many of the few reviews seemed to reflect what I also felt.  Take this review as an example: Thumbs up for exercise program, down to nutritional plan.  Notice the comments to this review... Shawn, his wife Angie, and Rob Mcnamara attacking the poor gent.  Note - Angie is a voice of reason, but why is she even talking??? she is obviously going to be subjectively attached to shawn's product/position.  I too noticed Rob has since deleted his comment, but I remember it wasn't too friendly.  It was actually the most aggressive.  I also noticed that the really positive reviews at the time seemed extremely distorted by an inside source.  Now as I return a couple years later I see a pile of more ratings that are extremely positive in their review.  I'm not buying it. I'm sure it's a distortion.  A mixture of friends promoting friends, short sighted wilberians, self interest manipulation, and then you can probably add in some clear sighted genuine ones.  There is just no way the book is truly rated that high.

Anyway, those are my thoughts.

Seth