Don't Be Afraid of Loving Yourself: The Art of Loving Yourself According to Osho

Book excerpt: A couple of years ago, on a bustling Avenue des Champs Élysées in Paris, I found myself gazing into the window of a quaint bookstore called Golden Books, my reflection staring back at me, a young man far from home, searching for answers. That day, I bought a book entitled “A Course in Miracles” that promised secrets to happiness, peace, and love. Yet, as I flipped through its pages, I realized I was looking for happiness, peace, and love in the wrong places. I cannot find love in the cro This book springs from a fundamental truth that took me from the vibrant locales of Europe back to the serene shores of the Philippines to discover that self-love is not just a state of feeling good about oneself but a profound journey toward inner freedom, peace, and fulfillment. It’s a truth that resonates across cultures, touching the hearts of those from every generation—millennials to baby boomers alike—each of us grappling with our own narratives of worthiness, happiness, love, and peace. My journey, woven through the academic halls of psychology and the compassionate wards of nursing, enriched by the profound wisdom of Osho’s teachings, has taught me that self-love transcends geographical and psychological borders. It is not confined to the corners of a mind or a specific latitude and longitude; it is a limitless, vibrant force that propels us forward. 1 DON’T BE AFRAID OF LOVING YOURSELF This book is crafted to guide you through the often tumultuous journey toward loving yourself. We all face the daunting challenges of societal expectations, the relentless pace of the digital age, and internal battles with our shadows of doubt and fear. Here, I offer not just understanding but practical pathways to navigate these trials. This book aims to illuminate the path to self-love through a blend of personal anecdotes, inspired insights from global wisdom traditions, and actionable steps. Each chapter builds on the last, creating a comprehensive map from understanding why self-love is crucial to integrating it into your daily life and finally sharing this love with your community, thereby transforming the world around you. In closing, I invite you to join me with an open heart and a willing spirit. Saying that loving yourself is selfish and egotistic is a pernicious lie and one that is robbing you and humanity of its power. Through the pages of this book, filled with practical and actionable steps in each chapter, you will be able to reclaim this power and make it your own again. This is not just a journey of self-discovery but a transformative adventure that promises to bring you closer to your most authentic self. Let us step forward together, forging a path toward a life filled with happiness, peace, and love. Our exciting journey begins now. Let the journey begin.