At the start of the reading, I read “it will change your state of consciousness or it will be meaningless,” Gulp.  This feels like BIG STAKES.  I was hopeful, but skeptical that the book would be that profound for me.

By the end of the reading, I felt a TRUE shift and indeed it was that profound. I have never had a favorite book before. I have never wanted to re-read a book before.  Well now I have q favorite book and I am re-reading it while discussing it with a friend and writing these posts.

Personally, the book did as promised! a changed state of consciousness.  For the friend I am re-reading it with, he already had a great understanding of the themes and felt aligned with the book immediately in a different way.  My view is that your reading and/or awakening will take your own unique path.  The aim I believe we can all hold is to aim for progress, not perfection

Mr. Tolle recommends making a note of good news.  At the time of the reading, I jotted down notes:

My son’s soccer team had a great comeback in their game today.

I have a new favorite book!

Since then, I have started to end my day by writing down about three events of the day for which I feel gratitude. 

All life forms need obstacles and challenges in order to evolve.

In the case of the ego, most of the challenges it encounters are self-created.

Chapter 1:  Potential portions for further reflection:

• Flowers were likely the first thing valued that had no utilitarian purpose
• Once there is a degree of Presence, of still and alert attention, in human beings’ perceptions, they can sense the divine life essence – the one indwelling consciousness or spirit in every creature
• Until this happens, we humans see only the outer form

The idea felt beyond my current abilities. I did it a few times and nothing seemed to emerge.  Then, it started to make sense.  I started to tune into the fascinating features of the item being observed.  IT was actually exhilarating.  The two most helpful exercises I did are described below for anyone who wants to experiment with them.  

One purpose of the chapter and book is to “decrease the density of the conditioned mind”, like a rock  that transforms to a crystal, and to acknowledge the “intrinsic oneness with every “other” as well as with the Source.”

Try applying the ideas in this chapter.

1.  Recognize the unawakened you or part of you.  Do you know what you don’t know?  Are you like me at the beginning of this book do you NOT know what you DON’T know?
2. Look at something.  Really look at it.  Try not to name it.  Just observe it.
   1. The “Five Senses” Exercise: Spend a few minutes simply observing the sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and textures around you without labeling them.
   2. The “Nature Observation” Exercise: Spend time in nature observing a particular object (a flower, a tree, a rock) without labeling it or categorizing it.

I encourage you to embark on your own journey of exploration with ‘A New Earth’ by Eckhart Tolle.  Whether you’re a seasoned reader or just starting your spiritual quest, this book has the potential to profoundly shift your perspective. Remember, the journey is not about reaching a destination, but about embracing the present moment and cultivating inner peace. Happy reading!

Share your experience!  See you soon to discuss Chapter 2!