Anthony de Mello
Biography
Anthony de Mello (1931-1987) was an Indian Jesuit priest and psychotherapist. Born in Bombay, India, he joined the Society of Jesus at 16. He studied philosophy in Spain, theology in India, and later pursued psychology and spiritual counseling in the United States. De Mello became widely known for his spiritual books and conferences that skillfully blended Western psychotherapy with Eastern mysticism. He was a charismatic speaker and retreat master, attracting a large international following through his accessible teachings. His work emphasized self-awareness, letting go of attachments, and living fully in the present moment, often conveyed through insightful parables and stories. Though immensely popular, his writings faced scrutiny from the Vatican after his death for perceived doctrinal deviations.
Selected Thoughts
«The shortest way to change a person's mood is to change their perspective.»
«Do you know what 'happily ever after' means? It means you have stopped judging.»
«The only reason you have 'happiness' and 'unhappiness' is because you are thinking.»
Writing Style
Accessible, parable-driven, direct, insightful, and often humorous. De Mello's style is conversational, blending Eastern wisdom traditions with practical Western psychological concepts, making complex spiritual ideas relatable through short stories, fables, and dialogues.