Freedom The Courage to Be Yourself

by Osho

• ISBN13: 9780312320706
• ISBN10: 0312320701
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2004-06-01
• Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin

Summary

The Insights for a New Way of Living series aims to shine light on beliefs and attitudes that prevent individuals from being their true selves. With an artful mix of compassion and humor, Osho encourages readers to confront what they would most like to avoid, which in turn provides the key to true insight and power. In Freedom, Osho differentiates three kinds of freedom. There is 'freedom from,' which is a negative freedom, a freedom that comes from getting rid of something, for example the restrictions imposed by parents, society, or religion. In contrast, 'freedom for' is a positive freedom that comes from embracing and creat-ing something-a fulfilling relationship, an artistic or humani-tarian vision. And lastly there is, 'just freedom,' the highest and ultimate freedom that goes beyond the negative and the positive. This last freedom is more than being for or against something; it is the freedom of simply being oneself and responding truthfully to each moment. Topics covered include: - The difference between freedom and license - Why people say they want freedom but are really afraid of it - The two sides of the coin: freedom and responsibility - Why freedom is the ultimate value in life. With these ideas, readers can explore their own lives, both physically and internally, and begin to discover the place and power of freedom.

Author Biography

The works of Osho challenge readers to examine and break free of the conditions, belief systems, and prejudices that limit their capacity to experience life in all its richness. One of the best-known and most provocative spiritual teachers of the twentieth century, Osho has been described by the Sunday Times of London as one of the "1000 Makers of the 20th Century" and by American novelist Tom Robbins as "the most dangerous man since Jesus Christ." More than a decade after his death in 1990, the influence of his teachings continues to grow, reaching seekers of all ages in virtually every country of the world.

Table of Contents

Foreword : three dimensions of freedom
Understanding the roots of slavery	p. 1
Paths to freedom	p. 49
Obstacles and stepping-stones : responses to questions	p. 104
Epilogue : the true freedom is spiritual	p. 141
Table of Contents provided by Blackwell. All Rights Reserved.