A lifelong Emersonian scholar, teacher, and spiritual seeker reveals how American philosopher Ralph Waldo Emersons twelve essential teachings hold the answer to living an authentic and fulfilling life, one that is in harmony with our souls.Ralph Waldo Emerson was a spiritual revolutionary whose profound vision of human potential came to define the American character. Known as Americas original Stoic, he offered a radical message of optimism, authenticity, and self-realization that is more necessary today than ever. In this timely, remarkable book, noted memoirist and teacher Mark Matousek reveals the depths of Emersons extraordinary wisdom, demonstrating how his timeless philosophy can help us navigate the challenges of contemporary life. Using personal stories, psychological research, and life lessons from Emerson and his contemporariesincluding Thoreau and Whitman he offers practical lessons in the art of living. In the following pages, you will discover: Why Emerson should be considered Americas original stoic How to dispel the illusion of our own powerlessness and turn toward boundless human potentialPractical tools for cultivating happiness in a fragile, unpredictable, dangerous worldThe gifts of self-reliance and spiritual renewal necessary for thriving A roadmap to discovering essential wisdom on living an authentic and meaningful lifeEmersons far-reaching vision of excellence and spiritual flourishing is the medicine we need to heal ourselves. Trust yourself, he teaches. Once you make a decision, the universe conspires to make it happen. This philosophy of hope, known as transcendentalism, is the vein of gold in the American psyche. Lessons from an American Stoic helps us to reclaim our national treasure.