How well do you know yourself? We have all probably gone through this dilemma, having yet to find the right answer. Here we have a remarkable book from His Holiness The Dalai Lama, a practical guide to self-knowledge, which might help us finally see ourselves as we really are.
What do you stand to gain from reading this book?
I found this book to be inspiring, and perfect for a journey of self-discovery. His Holiness imparts a number of valuable lessons on life and what it means to know yourself, reaching enlightenment as a result. Through the lens of his infinite wisdom, we are introduced to techniques on self-improvement, finally being able to let go of the illusions we have about ourselves.
Even in writing, one can feel the gentle guidance of this amazing leader. Without realizing, you feel empowered to embrace authenticity and stop living in a world that does not bring you happiness. The spiritual discourse may be dense at times, but it is offered with clarity and kindness.
Jeffrey Hopkins, the editor and translator of the book, mentions how it stems from a basic Buddhist notion: love and insight work cooperatively to bring about enlightenment, like the two wings of a bird. Without self-knowledge, we are more likely to hurt ourselves, looking at the world through the wrong lens and allowing our senses to deceive us.
The readers of this book are privileged to have access to such profound advice. It is far from a leisure read, but it offers clear explanations on why we feel empty or tend to perceive life from a negative perspective. You are left in awe, as you understand how much damage selfishness can cause.
Verdict:
If you are searching for yourself, feeling at a loss for answers, this book is an excellent choice. Take your time to read it, and you will discover a lot of valuable advice to take away from its pages. From the foundation of egoism to death and rebirth, we are invited to reflect on important themes and given the chance to reinvent ourselves, achieving “altruistic enlightenment”.
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