Chapter 1: The Power of Books

There are certain books you approach as mere literature, and then there are those that you engage with as if your very existence hinges on their wisdom. The two works I’m about to discuss have been pivotal in my life, acting as anchors amid chaos. Since I first encountered them a few years ago, they've become essential to my daily routine. Reading even a few lines before sleeping or upon waking rejuvenates my spirit and organizes my thoughts.

My frequent readings have blurred the lines of counting, but given their brevity and my dedication over the last couple of years, it's safe to say I've read them more than ten times.

1. Stillness Speaks by Eckhart Tolle
   • Number of Pages: 144

Imagine being enveloped by the most powerful forces of nature, providing you with serenity while life swirls around you. That’s the enchanting influence "Stillness Speaks" has on me. This book, written by globally respected spiritual teacher Eckhart Tolle, serves as a concise guide to his philosophies. It is filled with calming verses arranged by various life themes.

The topics range from relationships and ego to acceptance and mortality. Whenever I face turmoil, I inevitably find solace within its pages. It's remarkable how often the insights resonate with my current struggles.

For instance, during a particularly intense disagreement with a friend, I turned to the chapter on “Relationships” and found this perspective:

> “Every human being has been conditioned to think and behave in certain ways... To let go of judgment does not mean that you don’t see what they do. It means that you recognize their behavior as a form of conditioning... The ego then no longer runs your relationships.”

> — Eckhart Tolle, Stillness Speaks

2. As a Man Thinketh by James Allen
   • Number of Pages: 80

“Everything can be taken from a man but one thing: the last of the human freedoms — to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances...” This quote, attributed to Viktor Frankl, encapsulates the essence of James Allen’s As a Man Thinketh. This book beautifully elaborates on the power of mindset in shaping our realities.

Understanding that while I can’t control external circumstances, I can always dictate my attitude towards them is one of the most liberating insights I’ve ever gained. Like Stillness Speaks, Allen’s work is divided into sections that delve into different aspects of life—be it health or circumstance. Whenever anxiety creeps in, I turn to this book and, within moments, I’m able to view my challenges from a clearer, calmer perspective.

> “A strong man cannot help a weaker unless the weaker is willing to be helped... None but himself can alter his condition.”

> — James Allen, As a Man Thinketh

These two remarkable books have collectively transformed me into a more composed and grounded individual. They are so integral to my life that I struggle to envision going days without their guidance.

Have you had a chance to read these transformative works? What are your thoughts? If not, is there a book that holds similar significance for you? I’m always eager for recommendations of life-altering reads!

I indulge in various genres and share my insights regularly. If you’re interested, consider subscribing to gain access to my stories and those of other writers on Medium. Your support through my link would be greatly appreciated!

Looking for more book suggestions? Check these out!

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Chapter 2: Video Insights

The first video, "Top 10 Biggest Books I've Read! (As of 2023. More Than 5 Million Words in Total!)", provides a fascinating overview of extensive literary works and their impact.

The second video, "Books I Read This Summer," shares personal reflections on summer reads that may inspire your next book choice.