Contemplations and Deliberations between Swami Vidyananda and John Brokaar

<p class=ql-align-justify>This book is a record of conversations between two friends who are spiritual seekers. As seekers we acknowledge that we do not claim knowledge of the Truth. We are seeking. And in our seeking we may have opportunity to exchange our understanding with others.</p><p class=ql-align-justify>In a series of emails we shared our understanding of various issues that face humanity. It is important to note that the book is therefore not a structured treatise. Our points of view were based on research observations and personal reflection and our correspondence therefore included all three approaches often within a single paragraph. Where possible we retrospectively inserted footnotes which either clarify our points of view share relevant information or give references. We were not able to do this for everything since the idea of a book only emerged much later. As is usual in communication between friends detailed references are not always included so we have done the best possible in this regard.</p><p class=ql-align-justify>Each chapter starts with a few introductory paragraphs to contextualise the correspondence for the reader. We wrote this in the third person.</p><p class=ql-align-justify>We wish to point out that the sharing of these discussions with the reader is not meant to teach or convince the reader of our points of view as these themselves are evolving. We hope that the reader will be stimulated to reflect on these topics with the same openness and respect with which they were written in our exchange. We hope that the reader will also be able to synthesise his or her viewpoints with those in the book and thereby reach a deeper understanding within him- or herself. And if certain viewpoints are not palatable to the reader they can simply skip these.</p><p class=ql-align-justify>The important thing is the evolution in each one of us. If we use communication wisely then that will contribute to our growth. Hence our prayer is that the reader will read reflect contemplate and find a deeper level of truth within themselves. May we be blessed with wonderful insights in our ongoing journey and encounters with one another.</p><p></p>