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For the Unbound
July 7, 2005
Opening this book, I first turn to the dedication: For the Unbound. A month later as I read the final paragraph, and close this epic book, I know I've just finished a pilgrim's classic. I am certainly unbound by the journey this brave and beautiful book has offered me.
My dear friend, Mark, introduced me many many years ago to the great practice of spiritual reading and scholarship. For 15 years I have read many books about and from the Buddhist and spiritual paths. I report this because I want to put into context my impressions of this book - A Journey to the Last Sacred Place has been one singular and special jewel.
The Heart of the World, A Journey to the Last Sacred Place, is written by world-class climber and Buddhist scholar, Ian Baker. It's the story of a blank spot on the map of world exploration, so to speak, the heart of the Tsangpo gorge, the earth's deepest gorge where there was thought to be a fabled waterfall. Tibetans believe this waterfall to be the gateway to a mystical paradise - the origin of the myth of Shangri-La, the symbol of the unattainable. Few have ever entered this place or lived to tell the tale. This is the story of Ian Baker's exploration and discovery of the beyul, the hidden-lands.
While it's a journey into unknown lands on a geographical level, it's the journey he takes in discovering the inner realms that will stay with me forever. No one who goes on this journey will ever forget it.
I'll tantalize you with this entry by Lelung Shepe Dorje written in 1729....
SharePosted by robin at 9:57 AM
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