The unknown volume

From that moment I felt inwardly that this book would offer me new inspiration and wisdom. Written from a Western perspective The Power of Now offers to the reader a very practical view of the workings of the troubled mind and the ego and the calmness, simplicity and fulfilling beauty of the present moment, the Now.

As a student of Sri Chinmoy's I try to be continually aware of the greater self within the limitations and frustrations of the outer mental world. So rarely in this existence of money, greed, selfishness, uncertainity, expectation and disappointment do we find peace, tranquility and solace.

Meditation brings to the practitioner a clarity, where what we see or hear can be filtered before being absorbed or rejected. We have the choice to welcome kindness, sincerity and reject anger, unkindness, frustration or anger.

To live a life of continually being aware of the Now, or the spiritual heart as Sri Chinmoy names it is the pinnacle of our earthly achievements, for then we are God realised. For in those moments realised through regular meditation there is great clarity and stillness where compassion, love, concern, kindness and all of our highest spiritual qualities naturally flow.

Be aware of how much time you spend thinking of the future or the past. And when you do you shall release that you just missed the beauty, spontaneity and soulfulness of the Now. Try day by day to catch yourself, to be the witness of your thoughts. Each time you catch yourself thinking either in the past or future bring yourself to the present moment. It is only there that you are present, not lost in the turbulent seas of expectations, unhappiness, what if's, disappointents, frustrations, if only's and unrealistic desires, fantasies or wishes.

The moment you catch yourself is the moment you are making great progress. Never feel disappointed if you slip back to the old way of thinking, it all takes time. Remember you are beginning to change an habitual way of thinking dominated by the ego that has held you tightly clasped by its own insecurity for the greater part of your entire life. Day by day you will be able to spend longer periods in the present moment, notice how much happier and more content you feel.

As a tip spend as much time witnessing the beauty and tranquility of Mother nature and her quiet embrace. You will be constantly in the present moment, the spiritual heart and the Now when flooded by her peacefulness and quiet wisdom.