Philosophy Discussion Forums

There were so many good tidbits and quotes in this book, but the phrase, "don't make a false idol of the future" really stuck with me. I'm a natural worrier and constantly fret about what might come to pass, so I find myself repeating this to myself, almost daily. Doing this has helped me to focus on the present, and I've become less stressed and happier as a result.

I often think back to mistakes I've made with regret, as well, so I also love the quote, "When the ego weeps for what it has lost, the spirit rejoices for what it has found." This has made me realize that I'm not defined by my failures or shortcomings and shouldn't seek to define myself by worldly successes either.

How has this book changed your outlook on life?

The illuminating thoughts presented within the pages of this book have indeed been transformative, as they have deeply resonated with my own experiences. The phrase, "don't make a false idol of the future," is a potent reminder to remain anchored in the present moment, a lesson that many of us can benefit from in our perpetually forward-looking society.

Similarly, the quote, "When the ego weeps for what it has lost, the spirit rejoices for what it has found," has been a balm to my soul. It encourages a perspective shift from dwelling on past mistakes and regrets to embracing the growth and wisdom that can emerge from our most challenging experiences. This shift has allowed me to cultivate a sense of inner peace and gratitude for the journey of life, with all its ebbs and flows.

The book has fundamentally altered my outlook on life by fostering an appreciation for the richness of the present moment and the inherent wisdom within our perceived failures. It has inspired a renewed commitment to nurturing my inner spirit and focusing on the boundless potential of the here and now, rather than becoming ensnared in the mirage of the future or the shadow of the past.

There are many quotes in the book that resonate with my philosophical thought, and they help to consolidate my believe about having inner peace. One of them is " if you wake up in my body and on my bed, will you still be you?" I understand how the author seeks to clarify that we are all one despite having separate body.

What stuck with me most was the view on "shoulds" and "oughts".. Shoulds and oughts do not bring me joy. These are words of imprisonment. The same with the past tenses. What was supposed to happen is simply what happened. Obsessing on the past is a waste of time and energy, and a failed strategy for improvement.

I felt eh exact same way. I often find myself ruminating on the past and my past decisions. After reading the book I have learned that those words are detrimental t my mental health and hold me back. It is what it is and all I can do is move forward now.

Jenni Schmitt wrote: ↑May 23rd, 2023, 12:52 am What stuck with me most was the view on "shoulds" and "oughts".. Shoulds and oughts do not bring me joy. These are words of imprisonment. The same with the past tenses. What was supposed to happen is simply what happened. Obsessing on the past is a waste of time and energy, and a failed strategy for improvement.

The narrative has acted as a catalyst, sparking a renewed commitment within me – a commitment to nurture and nourish my inner spirit. It has guided me towards a profound understanding of the boundless potential residing in the here and now, urging me to shift my focus away from the ephemeral allure of the future and the haunting shadows of the past.

The aspect of my life that has changed the most by applying the teachings of this book is my understanding of the passage of time. "Time is a spiritual teacher, brutal but effective," as the book aptly puts it. I've learned to view setbacks and difficulties as opportunities for growth and self-discovery, recognizing that time has a way of revealing truths and guiding me towards greater wisdom and understanding.

After reading this book, I have learned how to peel off my figurative clothes that give a fake identity and emptiness. This includes letting go of resentments, hate, and unforgiveness towards others. I am learning how to make peace with my past self and embrace my new future self. As much as it's a struggle, I have found so much peace by understanding how to create my heaven full of love and conscious empathy. This is an amazing book that everyone should grab a copy of!

After reading the book, I learned to relate all my life events and circumstances to larger issues. In this way, I addressed every problem of my life. The goal of my life turned from material to spiritual. Spirituality has now become the main goal of my life. I have begun to channel the spiritual energy in my active and daily life.

The book emphasizes the importance of focusing on the present moment, avoiding false idols of the future, and embracing growth and wisdom from challenging experiences. It encourages a shift from dwelling on past mistakes and regrets to nurturing one's inner spirit and embracing the boundless potential of the here and now. The author's understanding of time as a spiritual teacher has been enhanced, as setbacks and difficulties can reveal truths and guide towards greater wisdom.

The value of living in the now, eschewing false illusions of the future, and accepting improvement and enlightenment from difficult situations are all stressed throughout the book. It promotes letting go of regrets and past transgressions in favor of embracing the limitless possibilities of the present moment and cultivating one's inner soul. Since challenges and setbacks can reveal truths and point the way toward higher insight, the author's perspective of time as an instructor of faith has improved.

reading the book had a profound impact on my perspective, enabling me to connect my personal experiences and challenges to broader universal themes. This newfound understanding allowed me to approach and resolve every issue in my life with greater clarity. As a result, my focus shifted from material pursuits to spiritual growth, and I now prioritize cultivating a deeper sense of spirituality as the core purpose of my life

My thinking and perspective has changed tremendously. It is quite interesting to make the best plan, and to see things differently. It is very good and okay to be the best person at your own time.

Well , a fantastic and really meaningful question and I would love to post about it. I am really excited!
I used to be a perfectionist, always being hard and critical on myself. I never accepted myself fully. However after reading this book and getting inspiration from the fact that we should practice self love and accept ourselves with all flaws. These words really touched my heart and I feel a perfect stroke of serendipity to have got the cure of my main problem. Now my outlook of life is totally changed and I readily and happily accept myself with great love and care. Thank you to Eckhart Aurelius Hughes!

I have always been a deeply spiritual person however sometimes I stray from those roots. This book has helped me get back onto my spiritual journey in a more committed way.