Allow yourself to be immersed in the essence of the present moment, where time dissolves, and small revelations of wisdom unfold through 60 timeless stories. If you are looking for mental refuge and a fresh oasis of relaxation, this book offers an ideal companion through narratives steeped in wisdom, where each story extends an invitation to understand and savor the simple joys of life. Characters of all kinds populate the stories, with their virtues and flaws. At times, they grapple with challenging puzzles or curious riddles; the conclusions are often surprising. The titles of some stories emblematically represent profound and sometimes unexpected peculiarities of the Zen spirit and culture, such ·“In the emptiness of the cup, the taste of the whole” ·“There is no way to happiness, happiness is the way” ·"If you meet the Buddha on the road, kill him" At first glance, the beginnings of some of these stories may seem strange or almost provocative, but gradually the mystery dissolves, revealing the clarity and profound meaning of the narrative. Draw inspiration from the wisdom of Zen owls, buy this book, and get lost in the reading of these timeless stories, appreciating the transformative power of the present moment. Discover a pleasant experience that not only entertains but enriches; an exploration that leads to a deeper understanding of the world around you.
This book has been a great tool in my recovery from addiction, trauma, and my own spiritual journey. It has also been a cherished part of my morning and sometimes nightly routine, reading it alone or with my girlfriend. We love it! Just about every story has something spectacularly beautiful and profound. Only a few were mediocre or not well written. But overall, I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for good short stories with lessons, especially as an alternative to the bible or other religious texts.
Just as the title suggests these are relaxing stories that have a simple message. I kept this on my nightstand and read a story a day - they’re short and enjoyable. These are timeless stories written in modern times, not a collection of koans or historical pieces. I really enjoyed these stories. The “This story tells us” section isn’t needed and is redundant.
Each of the 60 stories within this book will lead you closer to enlightenment. At the very least, if shared with someone else, it will encourage healthy discussions of all things meaningful to our mind and soul.