VCU news

By Leila Ugincius

Edward G. Kardos, director of development for the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry, has published his second book, a collection of short stories.

“Zen Master Next Door,” published by Humanics Publishing Group this month, comprises 17 “parables for enlightened everyday living.” With “Zen Master,” Kardos wanted to show man’s similarities regardless of religion, upbringing or class. He achieves this with a light-handed secular approach — tempered with an array of common religious themes.

“We’re all interconnected. The world is interconnected,” Kardos said. “We should learn about each other. We can learn so much if we listen to others — really listen to them.”

The parables in “Zen Master” depict basic events or activities that can happen to anyone. As Kardos’ Web site states, these relatable vignettes remind the reader that the most important lessons in life are often the simplest: “Our collective humanity, or wisdom, teaches us like any priest, rabbi, preacher or Zen master. [Or] for that matter, our neighbor next door.”

Another theme represented in “Zen Master” is the importance of maintaining a balance in all aspects of life— mentally, physically and spiritually. In this area Kardos practices what he preaches. Indeed, the father of four started writing as a hobby when his children were young as a means to maintain his own personal balance.

Kardos’ first book, “Yours, Aiden,” a novel set in the 1970s at a Catholic boys boarding school in the Shenandoah Valley, was published in 2002.

For more information on Kardos or his writing, visit his Web site at http://www.edwardgkardos.com/.