Like the title, this is the first book i read when looking into the topic of buddhism, besides the World Encyclopedia ( my desire to learn about Buddhism was great so i read anything i could on it)
I found this book at a Barnes & Noble book store and looked in the eastern philosophy section, and this one caught my eye. Its a not a huge book, but its just the right size, both in physical size and in page length. On a side note, i liked the paper it was printed with.
Always wanting to get the purist representation of Buddhism, i looked for actual scripture oh Buddhism, and this book had actual accounted quotes he made.
So i felt that was a great start. And i must say, that i took many wonderful things from this book as i ready it. Many a times i felt a bolt realization when id read over a certain passage, i felt a sense of happiness i never knew before. I felt some peace, i felt clarity and again so much peace. As i read some statements, some of the scripture would really hit me and speak to me, it gave me i sort of high. I felt wonderful, learning and realizing thing about the world and my self and about truth.
I would later find actual recorded sutras in books and things from other authors, but this was a great place to start. I learned so much and was deeply touched and inspired by some of things said. Each time id visit the book store, id go and find this book, until i finally read it all.
It was like a daily devotional for me. I even took notes. Within the experience i had of being a Buddhist, i always remember the wonderful beautiful transcending peace that i had. The oneness i felt with the earth and nature. The mastering of my mind and the body. I was alive and in turn put me in the best shape physically. Life was simple as i slowly realized more and more.
This book changed my life becouse it is what encouraged me to follow the Buddhist way. So that was a big life changer. This was one of first favorite Buddhist books.
Great memorable book when i was a buddhist. Recalling all that, it makes me want to consider it again, to put into practice. Recommended