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The Tao of Now: Daily Wisdom from Mystics, Sages, Poets, and Saints

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If you think enlightenment requires decades of spiritual practice and is reserved only for the chosen few, think again. Josh Baran shows readers that nirvana is staring them in the face. Baran has collected the quintessential teachings, both ancient and modern, from such notables as Rumi; Ram Das; Buddha; Jack Kornfield; Byron Katie; Pema Chodron, and Eckhart Tolle. The Tao of Now draws wisdom from history's greatest mystical thinkers to provide direction for the spiritual journey. In addition to the wisdom of these teachers, Baran, a former Zen monk and contributor to The Buddhist Review, offers his own inspirational commentary on experiencing nirvana.

432 pages, Paperback

First published October 3, 2008

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Josh Baran

5 books5 followers

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Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews
Profile Image for William Schram.
2,423 reviews99 followers
September 30, 2024
My copy of the book has an image of a cell phone, so I thought it would be similar to Very Modern Mantras, a book I detested. Thankfully, I was wrong about judging a book by its cover.

The Tao of Now by Josh Baran is a book that takes quotes about the present moment. Rather than looking for enlightenment or happiness in some far-off future or mystical land, why don't you see what is in front of your eyes right now? You may be in dire straits, or your life could be mundane. That doesn't mean you can't find the truth, happiness, or whatever you seek.

Baran was a Zen Monk, so he does have experience. I remember Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back. In that movie, Luke Skywalker meets Yoda, and Yoda chastises Luke for always looking toward something else rather than what he was doing at the moment. That line of dialogue always stuck with me throughout the years.

The book is long, but it isn't densely packed with text. I enjoyed the book. Thanks for reading my review, and see you next time.
Profile Image for Elizabeth Castro.
254 reviews7 followers
June 9, 2019
Each morning I would sip coffee and read a page from the Tao of Now for daily devotional and prayer time. Every page has positive thoughts or messages written representing a variety of world religions or spiritual thought. If you enjoy the Power of Now, this book might be for you.
Profile Image for Zaya.
1,081 reviews1 follower
March 23, 2020
I read this over the course of three months (Jan-Mar), each day taking in a few pages at a time. I found many sections enlightening and while the whole book did not speak to me, I am thankful it was direct and to the point.
Profile Image for Tami.
Author 38 books85 followers
November 20, 2008
The Tao of Now is filled with inspirational poetry, quotes, thoughts, and prose by a hundreds of different authors. The majority are well known spiritualist and historical figures.
All have something to say about awareness, living in the moment, and resonating with your true personhood. A variety of belief systems are represented presenting a forum for spirituality and self understanding rather than adherence to any one religion. 

There are several ways to use this book. You can start each day with a little inspiration or pick a favorite when you need them the most. With so many entries to choose from, you’ll find numerous new favorites that resonate with your personhood and inspire you in your daily life.

On many of the pages, the author has included her own little notes or comments. I like this aspect. I think it gives the anthology a personal touch while encourages contemplation about the pieces and thought presented.
Profile Image for Betsy.
184 reviews6 followers
July 24, 2009
keep this by your book shelf bed to re read wisdom good for experiencing life.
Profile Image for Linda Truong.
Author 4 books27 followers
May 12, 2013
Inspirational, motivational, well put together.
Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews

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