The Must-Read Book Club
Nancy Preston: Author Pujya Swamiji Dayananda Saraswati recommends this as an introduction to Vedanta, and to prepare a seeker's mind for self-knowledge. I bought it in the bookstore of Arsha Vidya Gurukulam in Pennsylvania, which was founded by Swamiji, where he was living and teaching at the time when I was on retreat 20 years ago! I still read it over and over again, each time with new insight.
YCNYC: Favorite quote?
NP: A value, any value, universal or situational, is a value for me, only when I see the value of the value as valuable to me.
YCNYC: What one person would you recommend this book to?
NP: My initial response would be Donald Trump, because he is in the headlines. But one must be ready to listen and hear, so I believe he would not receive this. This book is for a seeker—a curious yoga student, an inquisitive person, a farmer, a mechanic, anyone interested in finding the fullness of self-knowledge. This knowledge is available to all—it is not limited to the educated, prominent, successful, famous, or privileged. It is there for those with the attitude of self-inquiry.
YCNYC: What moment or part resonates with you the most?
NP: This excerpt from the end of the short 108-page book: "…values enhance the quality of life, whatever one's activities may be. Daily life gains efficiency and cheerfulness—even radiance—when these values are personal, assimilated norms. One becomes a cheerful person, both saintly and effective…"
You can purchase Value of Values here.
Have a Must-Read book to recommend? Email us here.
—Interview by Allison Richard
