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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
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Falling into Grace summary
Insights on the End of Suffering
23 mins
Brief summary
Falling into Grace by Adyashanti is a spiritual guide on achieving true inner peace and enlightenment. Through mindfulness and self-reflection, we can let go of the ego and access our inner divinity.
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Falling into Grace
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Key idea 1 of 7
To understand why you suffer, recognize that suffering stems from your conceptual self-image.
What do you see when you look in the mirror? It may seem obvious, but no doubt you identify your reflection as you. This human ability to recognize yourself is developed in early infanthood. Even at just a few months old, a baby will begin to identify with the mysterious blob in the mirror staring back at him: Wow, that’s me!
This natural sense of being a distinct, separate self is the basis of what Adyashanti calls egoic consciousness. And as we get older, this sense of self – or ego – strengthens. By the time a child is five or six years old, he already has the foundations of a self-image.
The key message here is: To understand why you suffer, recognize that suffering stems from your conceptual self-image.
As the child grows, he will learn numerous human values: what is right versus what is wrong; what should be versus what shouldn’t. In the meantime, his sense of being a separate self solidifies in a culture that puts a high value on how he is perceived.
It is for this reason that most people live in a continuous state of protecting or improving their image. We indulge in certain behaviors or change how we look in order to fit into a set view of the world. We try to control how others see us. What we don’t realize is that the more preoccupied we are with our sense of self-image, the more we open ourselves up to suffering.
But what is suffering, really? A newborn with no self-concept may be angry and wail – but the suffering of an adult with a fully formed ego goes deeper. This is partly because the more you invest in your self-image, the more it controls your emotions. For instance, if you see yourself as good and worthy, you feel happy and uplifted. But if you believe you are unworthy, then you create negative emotions, like despair or guilt. In other words, you suffer.
Your self-image can also be affected by how others see you, which can lead to more suffering if the two versions of your self don’t line up. Say you perceive yourself as worthy, and then someone suddenly enters your life and is harshly critical of you. Very soon you may start to feel that you’re a terrible person. What’s important to remember is that this self-image is not really you – it’s merely an image of you.
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What is Falling into Grace about?
Falling into Grace (2011) explores why humans suffer and shares the ways in which it is possible to let go of existential struggle. Using profound spiritual insights, it shows that the way we mentally interpret the world lies at the root of most human problems, and that another way of viewing the world is possible – one that is rich and free of suffering.
Falling into Grace Review
Falling into Grace by Adyashanti (2011) explores how spiritual awakening can be found through surrendering to the flow of life. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- With profound insights and guidance, it offers a transformative perspective on the nature of existence and the path to inner peace.
- Intimately sharing personal experiences and stories, the book provides a relatable and authentic exploration of the spiritual journey.
- By emphasizing acceptance over effort, the book challenges conventional wisdom and encourages readers to let go of resistance and embrace the present moment.
Who should read Falling into Grace?
- Seekers hoping for spiritual growth
- People interested in Buddhist philosophies
- Those who want to overcome suffering in their lives
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Falling into Grace FAQs
What is the main message of Falling into Grace?
The main message of Falling into Grace is to let go of self-judgment and embrace our true nature.
How long does it take to read Falling into Grace?
The reading time for Falling into Grace varies depending on your reading speed. However, the Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is Falling into Grace a good book? Is it worth reading?
Falling into Grace is a valuable read for anyone seeking inner peace. It offers profound insights and practical guidance to deepen your spiritual journey.
Who is the author of Falling into Grace?
Adyashanti is the author of Falling into Grace.
What to read after Falling into Grace?
If you're wondering what to read next after Falling into Grace, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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- Living Untethered by Michael A. Singer
- Journey of Awakening by Ram Dass
- The Emotion Code by Bradley Nelson
- Secrets of Sand Hill Road by Scott Kupor
- The Power of Intention by Wayne W. Dyer
- The Courage to Be Disliked by Ichiro Kishimi & Fumitake Koga