1. Introduction

[Manuel]

Contains a brilliant analysis of the spiritual life. It is full of profound lessons and words of wisdom on sanctifying the present moment, the effect of conduct on belief, how to pray and meditate, and making up for the past.

This book distinguishes between the ego, the I and the Divine. The ego is a false facade we build to protect ourselves. It is the source of our egotism. The I is our true being, which must displace the ego to be fulfilled. Finally in the third level we must surrender our I to God.

Please add other questions to this discussion as you see fit.

[Dani]

He hit the nail on the head with this bit: “The man who has horrors tormenting his own soul may like to hear of greater horrors in others, or to see them on the screen, in order that he may for a moment forget his own hell within.”

I don’t find interest in the mysteries and thrillers, as he was referencing, but I do joke with friends that I indulge in reality TV (I.e., Real Housewives) to remind myself I’m not the only one with family problems. I joke about it, and while I recognize I have problems, that doesn’t mean I don’t use the escape.

[Marlicia]

I think everyone has some form of escapism, Dani, to a greater or lesser degree. I love the fantasies and the super hero genres. They are very appealing, even when I know they are far from reality.

God bless...

[Mariangel]

It depends on the fantasy. While being allegorical, they may actually be very close to reality.