Tony Robbins

In addition to getting started with meditation, I also actually followed my cousin’s advice and read Tony Robbins’ Awaken the Giant Within, as I know that, in essence, Robbins does the same job as spiritual teachers do: help people know themselves better and grow into their full potential as a human being. I shared this finding with my Buddhist friend Sasha, but he replied that serious meditative practice is the only way to transform oneself. Hmm… Is it? My reply:

"One more word about Robbins: the reason I think it is of interest is that – and maybe it's just me – I believe it is important to fully understand some of the paths towards a joyful and fulfilled life taken by people in our culture – as it can help us communicate more effectively with our peers...

I do believe like you do that a spiritual practice, like some of the things we are exploring, is one of the most powerful tools out there. Robbins doesn't really talk about it – although some of the visualizations he talks about are somewhat comparable to meditation. It is actually funny to see how there is no spiritual thread to what he talks about, yet, without a doubt – Buddhist teachers and Robbins are talking about the same thing.

What Robbins says (about pleasure/pain, energy, beliefs, states of mind, identity, etc) is already a stretch to many (I learnt a lot of good stuff!!) – but his language is understandable to all, while some of the Buddhist/Eastern stuff may sound esoteric to some – I for example already encounter a number of strong, bizarre reactions when I drop the word Buddhist at some friend's gatherings!

I recognize that Tony provides no real tool if you do not commit to his methods (no transcendence aspect) but
- what he talks about IS enlightenment, awakening
- he HAS helped many, undeniably, awaken.
Therefore, he IS a spiritual teacher, one that points to your Self."

After I put the book down (and because I did not, in fact, commit to his methods, while I know he offers workshops, tapes, etc, to practice them), there is, in fact and indeed, not much else remaining in me besides the sweet memory of the high that reading the book created. Practice is the key, I know…