Monday 16 December 2013

FINDING THE MIND - ROBIN COOPER


RATING B-

The book offers insight into the Buddhist (all styles of Buddhism) viewpoint of 'the mind'. Page 54 reminded me of my 'hoarding' father - I am currently disposing of said hoardings, bit by bit. There was new-to-me information/sources on the Buddha's life in chapter 7. I found the table on page 94 helpful as was the table on page 98. I found the chapter on Western similarities very difficult to follow. As usual, what should be the easiest, was the least.

I would recommend the book to those interested in both Buddhist and Western psychology and comprehension of the mind, but mainly to those seeking a 'summary' of various Buddhist views in relation to the mind.

Monday 2 December 2013

THE AWAKENING MIND - GESHE TASHI TSERING


RATING B-

Another Mahayana book that has offered me assistance to continue with already learned practices now seen in a new light. Various sections stood out to me, but this is because of my personal practice and understanding - different areas would stand out to different readers. For me, detailed analysis of several 'numerical lists' & the chapters on altruism and compassion stood out.

I have begun to try to read a mixture of books that advance me from where I am at to the next steps along, and this book is one of the books that will assist me. I found that it is number 4 of a collection of books, so may soon be searching to buy the rest of the series.

This book is suited to Mahayana practitioners, FPMT students, Buddhist readers looking for a new take on familiar topics, and students of Lama Zopa Rinpoche.