Way of the Peaceful Warrior

My most visceral awakening happened when I was about 12. It was not from some life-shattering setback, knock on the head, or beatific vision. Instead it was found in an unassuming book: Dan Millman’s semi-autobiographical work, Way of the Peaceful Warrior: A Book That Changes Lives. A worldwide bestseller since its publication in 1980, it wasn’t a book you’d expect a 12-year-old to pick up. But I had read all of the other books in the house.

Dan’s message in this semi-fictional tale of meeting a gas station attendant and becoming a peaceful warrior is about waking up. In fact, near the end of the book, Dan has a near-death experience and literally wakes up. He finally realizes some core truths about life. These truths have stayed with me. They have influenced me profoundly and their clarity resonates with me every day.

Millman’s words are always simple, vivid, and flow with an ease that came from his deep spiritual evolution. Words from that first book are as powerful to me today as when I read them all that time ago. For example, he writes:

“Wake up! Wake up! Soon the person you believe you are will die—so now, wake up and be content with this knowledge:

 

There is no need to search; achievement leads to nowhere. It makes no difference at all, so just be happy now! …There is no problem, never was, and never will be. Release your struggle, let go of your mind, throw away your concerns, and relax into the world. No need to resist life; just do your best. Open your eyes and see that you are far more than you imagine.

 

…Wake up, regain your humour.”