Enlightenment

ISBN-13: 9781456424947 / Angielski / Miękka / 2010 / 144 str.

Jim Riley

Opis

From the film, National Treasure: "There are 20 million books in the Library of Congress, and they all say the same thing: 'Listen to Riley '" An artist loves beauty. A philosopher trades in ideas. A romantic pines for a beloved. Whatever they may be, our loves guide us. I have learned that not beauty, philosophy, or faith alone will guide us well. A more enlightened conscience may. In college I was Editor of the literary magazine and received a national award for young writers. I'm also a classically trained musician, Concertmaster in high school, all-State, and at my university. After years of poor life choices I decided to live by the higher dictates of every noble philosophy and faith. Whatever truths they shared, those I would follow. This brought me a deeper understanding of life, through insights I'm compelled to share. I must confess, this journey to the light started slowly, like a locomotive pulling heavy freight. Gradually I picked up steam. Finally I reached my destination, which I liken to a country station with the weathered sign, "The Village of the Truth." On the platform, a kindly Stationmaster stands forever, greeting new arrivals: "If you would dwell among us, first know you this: there are many routes here, with different names. In the end, they are only names. What separates us is much less than what the share. "You seem earnest, so, I'll tell you the Great Secret straight away: Throughout the universe countless beings, just like you and me, seek life's purpose. The fortunate come to this: Reason tells me who I am. Love tells me why I am." After many years of wondering how to convey this I composed this set of verses. The power of words is limited. Thus they are but signposts that point the way. Regard each new perspective you encounter as a clue. No single thought or phrase can enlighten us. If it could, we would all have heard it long ago. But a work of art may work such magic. What readers say: .."..transformed my life." ..".seamless and intelligent...perspectives I've never thought of before." ..".flows like poetry...breathtaking." ..".a book to keep by your bedside...more wisdom and common sense than Solomon." ..".reminds me of the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. While the author recognizes limits to the written word, his use of the medium is beautiful." I thank the internationally know photographer, Eric Lafforgue, who believed in this book enough to donate the use of his stunning Buddha photo for the cover.