Paolo Coehlo: Ser como el rio que fluye

Hello,
Sorry for the long time without a post, the internet has been, *cough* inaccessible. Hopefully you will enjoy this today: some excerpts and ideas from Paolo Coehlo’s latest “Like a Flowing River.” I’ve been reading and rereading this over the last few weeks.
-Ed

The book is composed of short relations of Coehlo’s life, stories, moments and experiences. As one of the most famous authors in the world (he wrote The Alchemist) he has a good life view. A lot of his stories involve sudden realizations, human nature and vocation. And he is the best author at describing in words: hope : that I can imagine. As someone whose stories have been translated to 155 languages, it’s great to hear his perspective.

Statutes of the new millenium
a. All people are different and should do whatever possible to continue being so.
b. Every human has his Personal Legend to complete and it is his reason for being on this world.
c. Everything we do in the present affects the future as a consequence and the past as redemption.
d. All religions worship to the same God and deserve equal respect.
e. more..

Travel differently
1. Avoid museums: it’s more important to see the present.
2. Frequent bars: at a place where you can see people.
3. Be available: try asking a local where to go.
4. Travel alone: travel in groups means you’re often interested in the jokes of the group more than the place.

The art of being
Mantener la calma– Stay calm.
Aprender a ser el otro– Be the other person.
Encontrar al maestro correcto– Find the proper mentor.
Escapar de las amenazas– Never feel threatened. (instead, react)

This is applicable in love and war.

The most beautiful phrase
In spanish:
La gloria de la vida es transitoria.

The glory of life is transitory–
“and, as such, we must sing,
More than ever we must sing.”

I read and reread these pages for weeks. I hope small clips has brought you some peace now.
-Ed Miller
BU ‘10
http://eddiemill.wordpress.com/