Books to Read

There are many flavors of Buddhism today. For basic philosophy of life, I recommend the variety known as Zen Buddhism (Japanese) or Chanism (which is the original Chinese variant). Book "Zen Flesh, Zen Bones" by Paul Reps is good. I also recommend "Book of the Five Rings" by Myamoto Musashi (spelling?). Also highly recommended is the "Tao Teh Ching" by Lao Tzu (translation by Gia Fun Feng and Jane English). Zen Buddhism was profoundly influenced by the Tao and I prefer the spirit of the Tao myself. Also, any books on the philosophy of the Samurai are very good. Lastly "The Lazy Mans Guide to Enlightenment" by Thadeus Golas is fantastic, but written in a casual 1960's Hippie lingo.


Also, I am just starting to read a book called "PRONOIA is the antidote for paranoia" by Rob Brezsny which seems to be a fabulous exercise in recognizing your own blessings and being receptive to the good in life and manifesting bountiful joy. I am surprised actually and am enjoying this book quite a bit so far.


When you finish those books (just kidding) -- read some biographies of famous people you respect or admire. They all had difficult lives and faced challenging times. Remember -- "there is no force without opposition." This is basic physics but applies to life also. No man rises to greatness in peace and comfort. Only in great difficulty and challenging times are our true strengths revealed and we are given the opportunity to exercise our great ability. Julius Caesar, Michelangelo, Van Gogh, George Washington, Nietzsche, Picasso, Beethoven, Jimi Hendrix, Socrates, and many others are remembered not only for what they accomplished, but also for the difficulties they overcame. Take Heart and Good Luck.

copyright (c) 2016

William Schaeffer