Is 'The Conversations with God' a Suitable Spiritual Guide?

I recently completed reading the series and I must say it changed the way I perceive spirituality. Raised in a Roman Catholic household in Milwaukee, much like Neale Donald Walsch, I was confused about the nature of God. Questions like, is He vindictive and mean, should we fear God, surrounded my daily life. However, my belief has always been that God is loving and forgiving. I often pondered upon the validity of different religions and questioned how can one be right while the rest be wrong?

Organized Religion and the Human Condition

In my view, organized religion exists to instill fear in us and attempt to control us. It's about power. There is one God, and this entity is described as loving, forgiving, and not judgmental. There is no hell, and all will eventually make their way to heaven. This perspective aligns closely with the concepts in Hinduism's principle of Adwaita, the non-duality between the metaphysical Creator and the physical Created.

Mirroring the Divine in Us

According to Adwaita, we have evolved from the metaphysical Creator and possess the Creator's DNA, encompassing all living beings from rocks to plants to animals to humans and beyond. This DNA is what makes us beings of optimum consciousness, characterized by the principles of Rajas (activity/atraction), Tamas (apathy/repulsion), and Sattva (harmony/equilibrium).

The series may not resonate with Western readers due to their belief in body-centered activities. Westerners often get caught up in activities such as sex, drinking, drug use, meat-eating, supremacy, and gross selfishness, often causing harm to other living beings. They fail to realize that they will have to face consequences in their next lives. However, those who do read this series will be better equipped to mend their ways and contribute to making the world a better place. In a land abode of spirituality, many Christ-like beings exist, and Westerners just pay lip-service to Christ without practicing His original teachings, which are often misinterpreted for convenience.

Addressing the Critique

Some critics have argued that 'The Conversations with God' is akin to conversations with demons, which is far from the truth. This series provides a profound and thought-provoking dialogue that challenges one's preconceived notions about God and spirituality. It encourages individuals to reflect on their beliefs and actions, ultimately leading to a deeper, more meaningful connection with the divine.

Readers and spiritual seekers are advised to approach this series with an open mind and a willingness to learn. The insights provided can be transformative, offering a fresh perspective on the nature of spirituality and the divine.

Conclusion

Is 'The Conversations with God' a good book? Absolutely, it is a valuable addition to the spiritual literature. It challenges beliefs, promotes reflection, and offers a path towards understanding the true nature of God and one's place in the universe. For those seeking guidance on their spiritual journey, this series is indeed a suitable and enriching experience.