Wise books

Inspired by my friend Chip Conley and a recent “Wisdom Well” post that he wrote simply called “The 10 Wisest Books I know”, here are eight books I feel provide me with wisdom in and through life’s journey. As I reflect on this list, I sense themes permeated through them such as Awareness, Presence, Connection, Love. I hope at least one of these books brings wisdom and meaning for you:

Man’s Search for Meaning ~ Viktor Frankl

Chip and I bonded fast and easily when we met, including over the fact that this book is the absolute #1 “Wisest book” for both of us. Anytime I may think to myself “I can’t do that because..” I remind myself that I always have a choice. As soon as I am in a place of choice, whatever choice I make, it is from a different place than when I feel I have no choice.

The Alchemist ~Paolo Coelho

Our greatest treasure is always within us and this book is a treasure. I am overdue re-reading it, something I have normally done once a year, always finding new perspectives from the story and the words of Coelho. For example, on the journey to being fully and completely present, this quote: “The simple things are also the most extraordinary things, and only the wise can see them.”

The Four Agreements ~ Don Miguel Ruiz