Book Review: The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari

Long back, I read a book "The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari" by Robin Sharma. I thought of writing this review because the book says "you should share good things with others"(may be this is one of the effect of the book). So here it goes..
The monk who sold his Ferrari is the story of a lawyer Julian who believes in materialism and does not give thought to anything apart from his law practice. One day Julian collapses with heart attack. He recognizes his omen as Awakening Call. Now he wants to live more joyful and spiritual life and thus he start his journey to the mystical land of India. After going through various places, he finally reaches to mountains of Himalaya and there he finds Sages of Sivana, who knew all secrets of how to live a joyful life full of simplicity, serenity and harmony. One of the sages, Yogi Raman treats him as a student on a promise that after learning all the methods, he will go to the west and pass on the message to others.
John, who is a friend of Julian and a co-worker, narrates the story. Now, Julian has returned from India and one can notice tremendous change in his personality and wisdom. He appears in front of John to pass on the wisdom and techniques he learned during his odyssey to India.
The rest of the book revolves around seven methods to live a better, joyful and spiritual life. These seven sermons are based on different techniques. The book also talks about "ultimate purpose of life".
John being a good learner asks questions quite frequently, which clears the doubts of readers and makes the book self-explanatory.
I felt great about reading the rich ancient Indian culture. Being an Indian I am sure you must have heard about most of the techniques and practiced some of them. But in the recent time we are getting more inclined towards western culture and forgetting the ancient Indian culture. In one of the chapter's book also says "Books do not teach you anything new, they simply help you see what is already within yourself".
So I would suggest you to read this book if you are seeking a personal change in your life, if you are looking for tools and tips which can make your life more joyful and delightful.
You never know this book may act as an "Awakening Call" for you!

Not everyone likes me, but does everyone matter?!

We are born a human for a purpose. I don't know how many would want to agree, but thats what I think. We meet people, make friends, live together.. But the question is, does everyone matter?

Everyday is a new day. Sometimes we come across those people we meet, sometimes the first meet turns out to be the last. Few of them keep in touch through phone calls, text messages, facebook, whatsapp, BBM and so on. But do we really care for all those people. Do they care about us. Or is it just faking love for the heck of it?

I'm always in a confusion! Whom do I consider my real friends? I have all types of characters as my friends.

There are some who've always been by me even during my worst times, who go to any extent to help me and get me out of the mess I've created in my life. They warn me about what to expect when they realize I'm upto something that doesn't suit me. But it's me who never want to agree. But they don't really care. Silently wait by me like my guardian angels, to hold me when I'm falling- when I'm breaking into pieces. When I'm falling apart. And what do they get in return. Absolutely Nothing!

Then there is another category of people in my life who has always been very supportive. Who believe in me and my goodness. Who try to show me all the things I don't know about myself. Why they do that, I have no idea. But still, I appreciate every little thing they do for me.

Then there are people who remember me only when they need me. They forget being indifferent and turn sweet overnight. And ones the work gets done, they bid a silent goodbye. If not a word of appreciation, atleast have the courtesy to inform that you are leaving and you'll be back when you need me again. Not that I'm grumbling or complaining, but yeah, wouldn't it be nice to knock the door before entering and lock before you leave?

Next comes the category of people who are almost non-existent. Never keep in touch. Forget to inform about their where abouts, but when they meet, they cover up for all the non-existent memories. This is a set of people I appreciate. No feelings, No expectations. Just have a good time when you meet.

Then there is another set of people who always try to pull me down. Well, under this again there are two types of people. One who show that they have a problem with you. But another stay silent to watch the fun. Not that I really care, but sometimes bidding goodbye to such people feels so much better.

And finally I have the most dangerous category of people in my life. I'm sure everyone has couple of them. But in my case I'm gifted abundantly with such people. Those who appreciate me with sugar-coated words, warm hugs and so on, and try to pull me down when I'm not around. Sometimes having these kind of people helps you grow and become an even better person. But sometimes they are able to destroy you completely. They are like enemies disguised as friends. Fake people do exist everywhere. The person who is sweetest to you can be the reason of your downfall. Just a thought!

And out of all these, whom do we find important. I've made my own set of mistakes and learnt from them. Thats what matters- not repeating the mistakes. Being aware about the fake people and maintaining distance beforehand.

Not everyone likes me. Every person is unique. I have my own behavior, style, attitude, perspective and above all, imperfections which might not approve of. Why? Because you think you are perfect.

Ending it with a quote from the book, Breaking Dawn(The Twilight Saga) by Stephenie Meyer: "You could run from someone you feared, you could try to fight someone you hated. When you love the ones who was killing you, it left you no options. How could you run? How could you fight, when doing so would hurt that beloved one? If your life was all you had to give your beloved, how could you not give it? If it was someone you truly loved?"

Further

KEEP GOING --

The path is treacherous but I expected it to be..

I never expect a bed of roses, for they are momentary, they wither and they are lost..

The stones, the thorns are not transitory, they are always there making you fall every now and then, paining, making your feet bleed... teaching you, making you stronger, tougher... They keep you alert.. keep your head running.. Thats what makes a person... thats what makes a "CHARACTER"...

Ahead is a blood feast,

"

O God! Turn me beast..

  For the war is very near,

                            And my eyes can't carry fear..                   

                                                                                                "

A man who can be brutal on himself can turn his fortunes on his head...
The man who can drive himself further.. when the effort gets painful is the man who will win...!