Finding “The Right Book” On My Spiritual Journey
Do you think that certain books show up in your life just when you need them?
I choose to believe this.
Finding “the right book” can feel particularly serendipitous when you’re on a spiritual journey.
The right book just means one that resonates with where you’re at on your own unique path of spiritual awakening and self-discovery.
And sometimes it isn’t just the author’s message that awakens something within you and moves you.
While I do occasionally buy new books, I prefer going to second-hand bookstores. It kind of feels like going on a treasure hunt. And as one who loves reading, I do consider books treasures.
Sometimes in these second-hand books, I find physical evidence left from previous readers. Random mementos used as bookmarks, personal dedications, markings highlighting phrases or passages, and handwritten notes within the pages.
Recently, I found the right book or the book I believe I was meant to find – not in a second-hand bookstore, but where I live.
There’s a library on the top floor of the building I live in with books donated by residents. The majority of the books would fall under the mystery and thriller genres, so you can imagine what a refreshing surprise it was when I found a few spiritual/self-help books.
One of the books I found was One Day My Soul Just Opened Up: 40 Days and 40 Nights Toward Spiritual Strength and Personal Growth by Iyanla Vanzant.
Similar to many self-help books, this book provides journaling prompts at the end of each chapter. One of the prompts being: After reading today’s commentary, I realize…
As I flipped through the pages to decide whether to borrow the book or not, I noticed some handwritten notes from the previous reader, so of course I had to read it.
After reading today’s commentary, I realize: “That I have started to live the truth by leaving my job and starting a new career for myself.”
Reading those handwritten words decided it for me. I had to get the book now. I believe I was meant to find the book and to read those words shared by the previous reader. It was a cosmic wink from the Universe. A reminder that I am not alone. A reminder that we are connected.
Here’s a fellow soul on a similar journey. Here’s a fellow soul who’s left their job (probably a soul-sucking one) and started a new path towards alignment.
May you continue to follow your heart despite how “impractical” others may judge you to be.
Thank you, fellow soul. Our paths may look different, but I believe we are going towards the same place. Towards home and True Self.
Let’s meet there.