Enlightenment to Go- David Michie

fiction

by Aarti Krishnakumar | on September 21st, 2011 | 0 comments

Knowing others is wisdom, knowing yourself is Enlightenment.

Lao Tzu

Enlightenment to Go: The Classic Buddhist Path of Compassion and Transformation by David Michie was the book i was reading…

While browsing around the net for books by David Michie, i noticed that he has also written two other best sellers-Buddhism for Busy People and Hurry Up and Meditate.

Buddhism for Busy People seemed interesting- it is about David’s encounter with Tibetan Buddhism, weaving an autobiographic narrative while presenting some basic concepts.. Sounds interesting, should give it a read!!

Ok, getting back to Enlightenment to Go- The book belongs to the Self help category, but unlike the other books in this genre, it does not go on preaching about life’s lessons or morals.

It is all about an 8th century text by the Buddhist sage Shantideva, which The Dalai Lama consistently preaches and recommends too all simply because of the life changing psychological tools available and transcendent wisdom.

Quite an insightful exploration of the traditional Buddhist teachings , especially on compassion and human life, it shows us how we can apply these very basic fundas into our busy and contemporary lives.

For the last 30 years, the Dalai Lama in all his speeches and meetings, has recommended Shantideva’s ‘A Guide to the Bodhisattva’s Way of Life’ as a must read for anyone interested in changing their life and applying Buddhist philosophy to daily life. But the challenge for many in following the 8th Century text is understanding the language and script, even though it is filled with treasure of information.

David provides a simple, lively and accessible guide to ‘the best of’ Shantideva. Sharing insights into his enthusiasm for Shantideva’s radical insights, David has written the words by the Sage in his own language, reaching out to the millions who are keen on altering their lives. He draws from the variety of scientific sources, ranging from cognitive behaviour therapy to mindfulness training, quantum physics to neuro-psychology to elucidate how Shantideva’s words are timeless and relevant even today.

The book also offers a very structured meditation program that will help readers integrate their life changing insights from a deeper level of consciousness which is when the change is will become visible and actually come into being. Narrating stories from his own journey, David illustrates the application of Shantideva’s teachings to a typical Westerner who has a busy life, through warmth and a dash of humour. It does not matter if you are new to Buddhism or have been a seasoned practitioner, either ways Enlightenment to Go offers an insiders view and glimpse of a reality many dream of.

When you are on the last page, you truly understand why the Dalai Lama has been such an avid follower of Shantideva’s words and teachings! Its a good read for those who are open to Buddhism or are already aware of the teachings, lessons and methods in Buddhism.