Book Shelf and Buddha

For many years I had a “special” bookshelf, loaded with everything I needed for enlightenment. No matter how fast I read, the shelf never seemed to empty. At times on a whim, recommendation of a friend, or a glowing review in another book or magazine I would continually restock with books with attractive covers or titles.

At some point on my journey I realized I was not simply looking for the magic book, I was looking for a book that would do it all for me. My magical thinking lead me to
believe that if I hit on the right book at the right time, enlightenment would happen. I would be wise, unencumbered, perfectly healthy and free.

It didn’t happen.

I still have some of my old collection, but today I find myself drawn to NTI, A Course in Miracles, and a few other similar works and commentaries. My magic
shelf is no longer.

The few books mentioned above, especially NTI, are the ones that speak the Truth to me today, and more

 

importantly guide me as to the work I need to do (most of
which is to unlearn what I learned from so many other books.)

There are no “magic” books ... there are only those books and guide which stimulate our willingness to surrender, let go, and allow God to be God within us.

Please note I am reflecting on what is working for me now. What works for you might be different.

I am reminded of Buddha’s beautiful directive:
"Do not believe in anything simply because you have heard it. Do not believe in anything simply because it is spoken and rumored by many.  Do not believe in anything simply because it is found written in your religious books. Do not believe in anything merely on the authority of your teachers and elders. Do not believe in traditions because they have been handed down for many generations. But after observation and analysis, when you find that anything agrees with reason* and is conducive to the good and benefit of one and all, then accept it and live up to it."

* I believe he is speaking of the intuitive heart rather than the rational mind.