A.H. Almaas's "Being Aware of Being Aware" is a profound exploration of consciousness and the nature of self. This book represents a significant evolution in my understanding of meditation and spiritual awakening.
Almaas, founder of the Diamond Approach, presents a sophisticated framework for understanding consciousness that transcends traditional spiritual teachings. He distinguishes between different levels of awareness and shows how true meditation involves recognizing the aware presence that underlies all experience.
What fascinated me most was Almaas's explanation of the "hole in one's heart" - that deep sense of incompleteness that drives much of human behavior. He shows how spiritual inquiry can transform this emptiness into a portal for genuine awakening.
The book's exploration of the True Nature and its relationship to ordinary consciousness challenged many of my preconceptions about enlightenment. Almaas presents a path that integrates psychological insight with spiritual realization, avoiding the pitfalls of both spiritual bypassing and purely psychological approaches.
Almaas's writing is intellectually rigorous yet deeply compassionate. He combines philosophical precision with profound personal insight, making complex spiritual concepts accessible while maintaining their depth.
This book has significantly influenced my meditation practice and understanding of consciousness. It continues to serve as a guide for deeper self-inquiry and authentic spiritual development.