Enlightenment-It’s not What You Think

Those who identify themselves as "spiritual" are seeking to be present in this world in a higher, lasting state of consciousness.... Spiritual seekers strive to be in the Eternal Now; they emphasize the power of being present in this very moment. But they are not seeking merely passing spiritual experiences. They are searching for a lasting state of higher consciousness, variously described as enlightenment, the awakening, satori, illumination, samadhi. Self-realization, and Christ Consciousness. Although these expressions vary among spiritual and cultural traditions, they refer to the permanent attainment of a higher state of consciousness in which the seeker realizes Oneness with all.

The essays in this book explore the descriptions of enlightenment in various spiritual and wisdom traditions, the process of becoming enlightened, and how to overcome the inner obstacles to the achievement of that goal.

Reading or speaking about enlightenment is a challenge because it's not what you think. Words are inadequate to describe it, like the words be tasted. However, some descriptions may prepare you for your first glimpse of it and then guide you to become it.

Let me start by asking a personal question. Why did you open this book? The possible answers are many. "I am a spiritual seeker, struggling in the material world... I enjoy meditation, and I have heard that enlightenment is its result ... I want to find peace of mind ... I'm having an existential crisis, and I'm looking for answers to the suffering in my mind... I'm looking for God... I'm looking for a spiritual experience." These are all good reasons to read this book.

What's the one thing that we are all seeking? It's probably happiness. Everyone is looking for happiness, even those who probably wouldn't read this book. They're just looking for it elsewhere. Maybe they are searching for it in a relationship or a meal, or in physical activity or on television. Some are even working late tonight, thinking that work brings them happiness. Finding happiness is not really the problem.

**Contents and Sample Pages**