Throughout his lifetime, Dennis Merritt Jones has been on a quest to inspire and lift people to a higher expression of life. His personal vision is to guide people to their purpose, knowing that when a person fully awakens to who they are and why they are on the planet, they begin to naturally share their gift with humankind and, in the process, create an enriching life for themselves and the world around them.

In his new book, The Art of Uncertainty: How to Live in the Mystery of Life and Love It (due in June 2011 from Tarcher Penguin),  Dennis helps individuals to overcome their fear of the unknown by embracing each moment as it happens by living in the now. He is also the author of The Art of Being: 101 Ways to Practice Purpose in Your Life, was released in 2008. The Art of Being was awarded the Nautilus Gold Award designed to highlight books that offer new ideas and options for a better world for everyone. His book was also a Silver Finalist in the Multiple Sclerosis Society Books for a Better Life Awards.

Dennis believes we each have the capacity and, ultimately, the responsibility to contribute something positive to this world, leaving it a better place than it was when we arrived. His teachings promote a contemporary, life-affirming, spiritually logical and positive outlook on life, which are reflected in his writings.

Dennis is a universal speaker who is equally comfortable speaking to an audience seeking spiritual inspiration or to those seeking a purely secular motivational message. He uses his understanding of universal principles to draw upon wisdom from both eastern and western philosophies. Dennis believes that there is a new consciousness of unity, cooperation and reverence rising in humankind where the value of all life is considered sacred. He believes this consciousness of unity, cooperation and reverence for life and the planet will be one of the most significant influences upon society as we approach the challenges of 21st century living.

As a musician, Dennis Merritt Jones spent fifteen years in the entertainment industry writing songs and performing. As he grew spiritually, he was able to take his musical training and use it to create music that moves not only one's feet but also their heart. His CDs, Awakening and Free To Be, offer you several different chants, along with meditation music, that will open you to your soul's presence and purpose.

Dennis was the founder and spiritual director of the International Center for Spiritual Living in Simi Valley, CA. Dennis retired from the pulpit in 2008 to take his message to the world by means of his books, sacred journeys travel, spiritual mentoring, keynote speaking and seminars.