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 - A Guide For LIFE!A remarkable book that is capable of changing lives through changing consciousness. If more people read this book and BE, it really will be "A New Earth". I have found this book comprehensive in its drawing together of so many issues that plague humanity and giving clear guidance as to what to do (or not do) to get in touch with what is always there - our true inner essence. As a psychologist working with many people struggling with thoughts and emotions, I would strongly recommend this book to anyone wishing to experience inner peace. Rating: - A VERY good book -- worthy of your attention. :-)Working in a used bookstore, I'm exposed to a lot of books and ideas. Along comes "A New Earth", and although this may be nothing new under the sun in terms of content, it really doesn't matter. Like many writers before him, Ekhart Tolle is presenting old material in new ways. If "A New Earth" is running with the precepts of Zen Buddhism, or other philosophies, he's done a wonderful job of putting them into this very accessible book for modern times, that is a very easy read. Personally, although I could probably use a good dose of Zen Buddhism, or even just plain ol' meditation, I never read any ZB, nor meditate, in that order. Quieting my mind enough to meditate is a huge effort when my thoughts never seem to stop. On the other hand, I CAN see myself doing a lot of the suggestions in "A New Earth" -- separating myself from my most inane, repetitive thoughts, making a "space" in my life, no matter how small. In this way, "A New Earth" is a kind of workbook. You are given easy ways to get outside of yourself (ego) long enough to recognize the misery you are causing when you cause it -- to yourself, and to others. If working through the religiously traditional path of Buddhism works better for others, I say they should go for it. Myself, I have never hung well with established religions, Buddhism or otherwise. I prefer other people like Ekhart to go into these world religions and philosophies, grab the core teachings, and bring them back to me for study. Hey, if this is "Buddhism for Dummies", call me an idiot, I loved it. As you can see, I am trying not to take offense at the other comments made here by those who have obviously put a lot of time and effort in their philosophical educations. This book was not for them, and why would it be? But apparently they think it is too `fluffy' for other people as well. Not so. Like any book in the genre (spiritual) this will not be everyone's cup of tea. If it speaks to you, then it's yours. This is mine. And it's already starting to work. Rating:  - Way over hypedI've heard great things about this book, so though I would give it a read. Overall, it's a good read, but I feel the author is stating the obvious and constantly repeating himself. There are only so many ways you can state the same claim and I felt those ways were exhaused in this book. You definitly do not need this book to awaken your life. It will only reiterate what is already obvious to any sensible person. I would NOT recommend this book. The author has not found the purpose and answer to life. In fact, anyone could have written a book like this. Rating:  - Some good - some questionableI have been attracted to Tolle previously because he has such a clear way to express his opinions and experiences. I had a problem with this book, especially during the Oprah class broadcast. In this book and over and again in the class, it was emphasized, that "it can only awaken those who are ready." Several times people were told they "weren't ready". But who said Tolle was THE messenger? There are numerous messengers delivering the message of enlightment, life purpose, awakening and all that. So maybe Tolle just isn't the messenger for everyone. I've mentioned this to many people and I get different reactions from, "yea, that bothers me too", to "you're just not ready, Amy". For the most part, the information is a compelation of spiritual teachings of many religions, and it's meshed with his personal experience and attitude. Good for him that he says he no longer has an ego, however, based on some of his writing in this book, it seems that is just his interpetation. I appreciate his presentation of informaiton, and food for thought, but he could have left out the judgement at the beginning of his book. I am not ready for his opinion on my readiness. Rating:  - stick with itI found the book a bit heavy going at the start but give it time. It is a great read and something to recomend to people.
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