Original Goodness: Eknath Easwaran on the Beatitudes (Classics of Christian Inspiration Series)

Love, compassion, meaning, hope, and freedom from fear are not qualities we need to acquire. We simply need to uncover what we already have. "Original goodness" is Eknath Easwaran's phrase for this spark of divinity hidden in every one of us, regardless of our personal liabilities or past mistakes. And in this book he shows how this spark of divinity can energize our lives - beginning with instructions in a simple method of meditation that gradually removes the conditioning which hides our native goodness. Each chapter then takes its theme from the Beatitudes of the Sermon on the Mount. Throughout, this book is enlivened with inspiring quotes from some of the greatest Christian mystics - among them Meister Eckhart, Mechthild of Magdeburg, Teresa of Avila, and John Ruysbroeck. Original Goodness will appeal to anyone wanting to learn how to meditate using a method that fits comfortably within the Christian tradition. It is full of helpful suggestions for making spiritual ideals a practical part of daily life.