Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance

"You climb the mountain in an equilibrium between restlessness and exhaustion. Then, when you’re no longer thinking ahead, each footstep isn’t just a means to an end but a unique event in itself. This leaf has jagged edges. This rock looks loose. From this place the snow is less visible, even though closer. These are things you should notice anyway. To live only for some future goal is shallow. It’s the sides of the mountain which sustain life, not the top. Here’s where things grow.

But of course, without the top you can’t have any sides. It’s the top that defines the sides. So on we go — we have a long way — no hurry — just one step after the next — with a little Chautauqua for entertainment --. Mental reflection is so much more interesting than TV it’s a shame more people don’t switch over to it. They probably think what they hear is unimportant but it never is."

This is a passage from Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance, a book I read a few years ago, and as soon as I finish a certain read, I shall shift gears and re-read this book, a book that would make anyone think. It is a great spring read. Really. I am excited to see what I will learn this 2nd time around...that's the beauty of reading a book more than once, you continue to learn and see new ideas, themes and thoughts.

Aquick synopsis from Wickipedia:if you are interested.