BUDDHIST CONTEMPLATION: Reading about the spiritually great part 1

Discussing a quote part 1 of 2

QUOTE From Self-Knowledge Autumn 1988
“To read about the spiritually great ones of the earth and to ponder on their lives, accustoms the heart to bear their finer rhythm, and reproduces in us the light with which their hearts were filled. In this way the focus is shifted and changes are brought about.”

This fits with my own experience. Although I personally prefer to read about the spiritually great Buddhists - from The Buddha himself to those of more recent and current times - reading about spiritually great beings from within other faiths has also opened my mind.

I often find great value in reading such books as those by the Dalai Lama, the Acariya Mun biography, etc. Seeing that humans of recent times and today are successfully living as Buddhists gives me hope that Buddhism will not die out, only spread further. It offers me relief also, in that I read of so many modern Buddhists. Many of these appear to merely change a few superficial matters and indulge in frequent meditation sessions, and call that Buddhism. For me, Buddhism means a complete overhaul. It is a total meal of life, not just icing on the cake of living.

One of the ways I rapidly progress in Buddhist understanding is to absorb the teachings and lifestyles of the better-known Buddhists. I read and the wisdom gathered connects to my inner core, opening up a route 'down' to my better bits. This allows for me to further explore, experience, and understand the teachings personally, rather than just read words into my eyes and thought without gain.